Groin & Hernia Ultrasound Scan

£119

This scan is available to men & women from the age of 16 years.

Groin discomfort, swelling, or a visible lump can often be related to a hernia or soft-tissue abnormality in the upper thigh or lower abdominal area. This part of the body contains important muscles, ligaments, fat layers, lymph nodes, and the inguinal canal, the most common area where hernias occur. Hernias may also occur near surgical wounds as the body pushes on incisions.

A Groin & Hernia Ultrasound Scan is a safe, non-invasive examination used to assess the structures between the lower abdomen and the upper thigh. It helps identify hernias, soft-tissue lumps, inflammation, and other causes of pain or swelling.

At Ultrasound Care, we provide this scan for both men and women aged 16 and over. It is performed by experienced sonographers across all of our clinics.

The Purpose of A Groin & Hernia Ultrasound Scan

If you have been experiencing pain or swelling in the groin area, this MSK scan is an opportunity to take a look at what may be causing this. It can help to identify:

Inguinal hernias
Femoral hernias
Recurrent hernias after surgery
Soft tissue or muscle strains
Enlarged lymph nodes
Fluid collections or cysts
Inflammation or infection in the groin area.

Signs You May Need a Groin & Hernia Scan

You may benefit from a groin or hernia ultrasound if you experience:

A lump or swelling in the groin or lower abdominal area
A lump that becomes more noticeable when coughing, lifting, or straining
Pain or discomfort in the groin, especially during movement
Persistent aching or dragging sensations in the upper thigh or lower abdomen
Suspected inguinal or femoral hernia
Symptoms appearing after heavy lifting, exercise, or previous surgery
Sensitivity or discomfort near old surgical scars

A groin lump does not always indicate a hernia it may also relate to lymph nodes, cysts, soft-tissue swellings, or muscle injuries. Getting a groin ultrasound scan can help give insight into what is going on and if a hernia is present.

Who Would Benefit from a Groin & Hernia Ultrasound Scan?

A private Groin & Hernia Ultrasound Scan is recommended for:

Individuals with lumps or bulges in the groin area
People experiencing pain, discomfort, or dragging sensations in the groin or lower abdomen
Anyone with symptoms worsened by coughing, standing, or lifting
Patients recovering from abdominal or groin surgery
Individuals with suspected inguinal or femoral hernias
People with soft-tissue swellings that need clarification

The Procedure for A Groin & Hernia Ultrasound Scan

Whilst there is no specific preparation requirements for this ultrasound scan, we do recommend that you wear comfortable, loose clothing. This will need to be adjusted to give access to the lower abdomen and groin area during the scan.

During your ultrasound examination:

The sonographer will ask about your symptoms and medical history.
You will be asked to lie comfortably on the examination couch.
A water-based gel will be applied to the groin or lower abdomen.
The ultrasound probe will be moved across the area to examine muscles, fat layers, lymph nodes, and potential hernia sites such as the inguinal and femoral canals.
You may be asked to cough, bear down (strain), or change position. These movements help show whether a hernia appears during pressure or movement.

The procedure is painless and non-invasive, typically taking approximately 15–20 minutes.

Following your scan, our qualified sonographer will review the images and explain any findings to you. You will also receive a full report along with all of your medical imaging to discuss further treatment with your GP. We do not communicate directly with your doctor or manage your ongoing care.