There are two types of inguinal hernias:

• Indirect Inguinal Hernia – During pre-birth development, the testicles develop a typical pathway. Normally, this pathway closes before birth but becomes a very possible place where hernia could occur. An indirect hernia follows this pathway as it descends from the abdomen into the scrotum. People of any age may be affected by an indirect Inguinal hernia but probability of occurrence increase as people age. Mostly seen in males but can occur in females.

• Direct Inguinal Hernia
  – The direct Inguinal hernia differs in the site of occurrence, as it goes slightly to the inside of indirect hernia’s site, rarely protruding into the scrotum. This site has naturally thinner abdominal wall. This type of hernia, in contrast with indirect hernia which can occur at any age, is more prevalent in middle-aged and elderly people as the strength of the abdominal wall is greatly affected by age.