Groin and Abdominal Wall (Hernia) Ultrasound
A groin and abdominal wall ultrasound is a targeted scan used to detect hernias, lumps, swelling, or abnormalities in the groin region and abdominal wall. It helps visualise inguinal, femoral, umbilical and incisional hernias, as well as soft tissue changes caused by strain or injury. This dynamic, non-invasive test is particularly useful for assessing visible or intermittent lumps that appear during movement, coughing or lifting.
What is a groin and abdominal wall (hernia) ultrasound?
A hernia ultrasound uses high-resolution imaging to assess:
- Inguinal region – identifying inguinal or femoral hernias
- Abdominal wall – detecting umbilical, epigastric or incisional hernias
- Soft tissues – swelling, inflammation or muscle tears
- Dynamic assessment – scanning during coughing, straining or standing
- Contents of hernia sac – fat, bowel loops or fluid
- Groin lymph nodes – enlargement or abnormalities
It is the preferred method for evaluating suspected hernias, groin pain or unexplained lumps.
Why consider a private groin and abdominal wall (hernia) scan?
You may benefit from this scan if you have:
- A lump or bulge in the groin or abdominal wall
- Pain or discomfort while lifting, coughing or exercising
- Suspected inguinal, femoral, umbilical or incisional hernia
- Persistent groin pain not explained by injury
- Swelling after surgery or abdominal strain
- Monitoring known hernias before surgery
Advantages of private ultrasound:
- Safe and radiation-free
- More accurate than external scan for fine detail
- No referral required
- Consultant sonographer report provided
- Ideal for fertility and menstrual health assessment
Symptoms or concerns that may require this scan
Consider this scan if you are experiencing:
- A visible lump or bulge in the groin or abdomen
- Pain when lifting, bending, or coughing
- Groin discomfort during exercise or walking
- Lower abdominal or pelvic pressure
- Swelling after abdominal surgery
- Unexplained groin or abdominal wall pain
What can this ultrasound detect?
- Inguinal, femoral, umbilical and epigastric hernias
- Incisional hernias after previous surgery
- Hernia sac content (fat, bowel, fluid)
- Groin lymph node enlargement
- Abdominal wall muscle defects or tears
- Soft tissue inflammation or fluid collections
- Recurrent hernias following repair
Preparing for your transvaginal scan
Preparation instructions:
- No special fasting required
- Wear comfortable clothing for easy access to the groin/abdomen
- You may be asked to stand or perform gentle straining during the scan
- Scan is entirely external and painless
- Scan time: ~ 30 minutes
Inform the team if:
- You have had previous hernia surgery
- The lump only appears during certain activities
- You have acute pain or sudden swelling
- You are pregnant or have mobility difficulties
How it works
Smarter Scanning. Proactive Health. Peace of Mind.
Choose
Pick a scan or a program. No referral required.
Book
Select a time online - same‑day availability.
Scan
Be seen by specialists in our Bluewater clinic.
Results
Consultant‑led report within 3 working days, accessible online.
Get clarity. Get control.
Cut out long NHS queues, avoid opaque private quotes, and step into a single-visit, consultant-led experience.
