Inguinal hernia
The most common groin hernia, checked while you strain.
A private groin and hernia ultrasound — a dynamic scan that checks for inguinal, femoral and abdominal-wall hernias while you cough and strain.
Hernias, seen in motion.Choose your clinic and view appointment options in our online booking system.
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Hernias can slip in and out. Ultrasound watches the groin in real time while you cough, strain or stand, which a still image cannot do.
The most common groin hernia, checked while you strain.
A less common hernia just below the groin crease.
Umbilical, incisional and other abdominal-wall hernias.
Lymph nodes, cysts and muscle or tendon strains.
A Groin and Hernia Ultrasound is a non-invasive imaging technique used to evaluate the structures in the groin area. This scan is highly effective for diagnosing hernias, groin pain, and swelling by providing real-time images of the tissues and muscles. It helps identify the root cause of discomfort and guides appropriate treatment.
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This ultrasound is effective in diagnosing:
You should consider this ultrasound if you are experiencing:
Same-Day Appointments & Results No GP Referral Needed Flexible Payment Options
If you are experiencing groin pain, swelling, or suspect a hernia, a Groin and Hernia Ultrasound is the best way to get a precise diagnosis. Book your scan today and receive expert care from our professional team to ensure you get the answers and treatment you need.
From getting ready to discussing what comes next, here is a simple guide to your appointment.
A question before you book? Call usWhen you notice the bulge or ache and what makes it worse.
You lie down and may also stand. Gel is applied and we ask you to cough or strain while the probe watches the area. It is painless and takes about 20 minutes.
The sonographer talks you through what they have seen, and your written report follows within 24 hours — ready to share with your GP or specialist.
Choose the location that works for you. Confirm your selected clinic in the booking system before completing your appointment.
Need something more personal?
Speak to the team before booking.
No. You can book directly. If your GP or specialist has asked for this scan, bring their letter so the sonographer knows what to focus on.
Yes. Choose the number of sites in the booking form — one side, both sides or the full abdominal wall.
It can show related muscle and tendon problems in the groin; we will explain what we see.
A hernia that becomes hard, very painful or will not push back — especially with vomiting — can be strangulated. Go to A&E straight away.
You may need a hernia ultrasound scan if you experience one or more of the following signs and symptoms:
• Bulging or lump in the area on either side of the pubic bone (groin) or abdominal (tummy) wall; more palpable and visible when standing, especially with cough or strain.
• Discomfort with bowel movement or during urination
• A burning or aching sensation at the bulged region
• Pain or discomfort and swelling in the groin or abdominal wall, especially when bending over, coughing, lifting, or moving heavy items
• A heavy or dragging feeling in the groin or abdomen
• Weakness or pressure in the groin or anterior abdominal wall
• Occasionally, pain and swelling around the genitals (testicles or labia) when the protruding intestine descends into the scrotal or labial area
• Discomfort during sport or at the end of an active day
If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, consider scheduling a hernia ultrasound scan for a thorough evaluation at Phoenix Ultrasound. Early detection can lead to timely intervention and better outcomes.
The most common finding is an inguinal hernia where visceral fat or a loop of bowel protrudes through the inguinal canal, followed by hernias at different sites (femoral hernia, umbilical hernia, epigastric hernia, spigelian hernia, incisional hernia), muscular injuries (abdominal muscle strain or tear), lesions to the linea alba (diastasis recti), and injuries to the pubic symphysis or ribs.
Frequently, the felt bulge can represent a benign lipoma, enlarged or inflamed lymph node, or other benign soft tissue lesion.
Rarely, there is an incidental finding of infection, tumour or cancer.
At Phoenix Ultrasound, our skilled professionals are trained to identify and interpret a range of conditions, providing you with a comprehensive assessment of your health.
There is no essential preparation for this scan.
However, as the scan involves exposing the abdomen and groin, we recommend wearing clothing that allows easy access.
You will receive your results verbally immediately after the scan. Following the appointment, the sonographer will review the images and prepare a written report within 24 hours, with any recommended actions.
The report and images will be sent to you, allowing you to discuss the findings with your doctor if necessary.
Use the booking form on this page and follow its Next buttons. Choose your scan option and appointment time, enter the requested details, then review the price before completing the booking.
Book your groin and hernia ultrasound below. Follow the booking form’s Next buttons to continue, one step at a time.
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Call the teamBooking this alongside another scan? Each scan keeps its own preparation. If anything is unclear, call us on 020 3318 1373 before your visit.
If you feel unwell, seek medical advice. This page is general information, not a diagnosis. For urgent concerns, contact your GP or NHS 111; in an emergency call 999.
Further reading: NHS guidance on inguinal hernia · NHS guidance on hernias
A groin and hernia ultrasound can help identify inguinal and femoral hernias, sports hernias, muscle strains, fluid collections, and unexplained lumps or swelling in the groin area.
A groin and hernia ultrasound is generally painless and non-invasive. The sonographer may apply gentle pressure or ask you to stand, cough, or strain to assess how the tissues respond.
Many private ultrasound clinics offer appointments without a GP referral, although requirements may vary. It is best to confirm the clinic’s referral policy when booking your scan.
Please select Appointment type and Branch location to see time slots for booking- alternatively, please contact us via the chat, call or email, 020-3318-1373
Please check what preparation is needed before your ultrasound scan below:
| All Pelvic scans Kidney and Urinary tract Prostate & Urinary Tract Appendicitis Early Pregnancy Scan | Drink One Liter of still water (2 Pints) One hour before your scan. Do NOT use the toilet so you would arrive with a full bladder. Medication can be taken as normal. |
| Liver scans Upper Abdomen Liver Fibroscan (Liver Elastography) | Do NOT eat for 6 hours prior to scan time. |
| Combination of above scans | Same as respective scan’s preparation. |