Can Using Vibrators Cause Hernias in Women? Expert Insights Explained - Surgery

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Does using a vibrator for women lead to hernias?


Hello, Doctor: I recently underwent surgery for a left inguinal hernia, and I am still curious about how I developed the hernia.
I would like to ask a somewhat embarrassing question: Can the use of a vibrator or a bullet vibrator by women lead to hernias? I only used it externally, with vibrations on the clitoris and outside the vagina.
I have heard that intense exercise can cause hernias, and my hernia symptoms "seemed" (I don't quite remember) to appear after my first use of the vibrator.
Also, does sexual intercourse lead to hernia recurrence? After all, it can be considered intense exercise...
I hope to receive your answers, thank you! Concerned YY

YY, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2018/03/09

Dr. Chen Jiaming reply Surgery


In simple terms, the formation of hernias in young individuals is often related to congenital weak points in the lower abdominal wall, combined with increasing intra-abdominal pressure that pushes outward.
This is typically noticed when children cry or strain.
Generally, physical activities that increase abdominal pressure can contribute to hernia formation; for example, running does not typically cause this, whereas exercises like sit-ups that train the abdominal muscles do.
In older individuals, hernias are commonly seen in those who lift heavy objects, chronic smokers with persistent coughs, individuals with benign prostatic hyperplasia who strain to urinate, and those with severe constipation who also need to exert force during bowel movements.
The sexual activity or external stimuli you mentioned are unlikely to contribute to the development or recurrence of hernias due to their brief duration and mechanism.

Reply Date: 2018/03/09

More Info


Using vibrators or sex toys, such as clitoral stimulators, is a common practice among women for sexual pleasure. However, concerns about whether such activities can lead to hernias are understandable, especially after undergoing surgery for an inguinal hernia. To address your question, it's important to understand what a hernia is, how it develops, and the factors that contribute to its occurrence.

A hernia occurs when an organ or tissue protrudes through a weak spot in the abdominal wall. Inguinal hernias, which are the most common type, typically occur in the groin area and can be caused by a combination of factors, including congenital weaknesses in the abdominal wall, increased intra-abdominal pressure, and strain from heavy lifting, chronic coughing, or constipation.
When it comes to using vibrators or engaging in sexual activity, the risk of developing a hernia is generally low. Vibrators are typically used externally, and the pressure exerted during their use is not significant enough to cause the kind of intra-abdominal pressure that leads to hernias. Most hernias develop due to prolonged or intense pressure, such as that experienced during heavy lifting or strenuous exercise.
Regarding your concern about whether using a vibrator could have contributed to your hernia symptoms, it is unlikely. Hernias often develop over time and are not typically linked to isolated incidents of external stimulation. If you experienced symptoms shortly after using a vibrator, it may have been coincidental, or the symptoms could have been related to other factors, such as pre-existing weaknesses in the abdominal wall or other activities that increased intra-abdominal pressure.

As for sexual intercourse, while it can involve physical exertion, the risk of causing a hernia or exacerbating an existing one is still considered low. The key factor in hernia development is sustained pressure rather than brief episodes of physical activity. However, if you have concerns about your body’s response during sexual activity or if you experience pain, it is advisable to consult with your healthcare provider for personalized advice.

In summary, using vibrators or engaging in sexual activity is not likely to cause hernias in women. If you have undergone hernia surgery and are concerned about your recovery or any new symptoms, it is best to discuss these with your doctor. They can provide guidance tailored to your specific situation and help ensure that you are healing properly. Always listen to your body, and if something feels off, don’t hesitate to seek medical advice.

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