In the female, if the vaginal process remains patent, it extends into the labia majora. When luminal obliteration does not occur, there is a sac through which abdominal contents can herniate through the inguinal canal.

A child with an inguinal hernia usually presents with an obvious bulge in the inguinal canal or within the scrotum. Parents usually provide a history of a visible bulge, commonly intermittent, in the inguino-scrotal region in boys and in the inguino-labial region in girls.

There is usually no pain associated with a simple inguinal hernia. The bulge commonly occurs after crying or straining and resolves during the night while the baby sleeps or feeds.

The inguinal hernia should be repaired at diagnosis.