The inguinal ligament is a set of two bands that connect the oblique muscles of your abdomen to your pelvis, deep in your groin. They support soft tissues in your groin area and anchor your abdomen and pelvis. Inguinal hernia is a common problem here, especially in men older than 40.
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The inguinal ligament is a set of two narrow bands in the inguinal area of your body (your groin). Your groin is the fold where the bottom of your abdomen meets your inner thighs.
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Cleveland Clinic is a non-profit academic medical center. Advertising on our site helps support our mission. We do not endorse non-Cleveland Clinic products or services. Policy
The inguinal ligament connects the oblique muscles in your abdomen to your pelvis. The oblique muscles wrap the sides of your body, from your ribs to your pelvis. Your pelvis is the part of the skeleton that connects your trunk (upper body) to your legs (lower body).
The inguinal ligament is also called the groin ligament, Poupart’s ligament or Fallopian ligament.
The inguinal ligament has several important jobs:
The inguinal ligament is in your pelvis. It’s actually two symmetrical bands. Each one starts at the anterior superior iliac spine (toward the back of the wing-like bones of your pelvis). The ligaments then run in and down at an angle to the pubic tubercle — that’s at the bottom center of your pelvis, very deep in your groin.
At the bottom of the inguinal ligament is the inguinal ring and the inguinal canal. In men, the spermatic cord passes through these structures. In women, the round ligament of the uterus passes through. In both sexes, nerves and blood vessels pass through the inguinal canal.
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The inguinal ligament is made of connective tissue containing collagen, a protein that binds tissue together. It also has elastic fibers that are somewhat stretchy.
Sometimes, part of your intestine or fat can push into your inguinal area. This condition is called an inguinal hernia. A hernia can occur in someone who:
If you have an inguinal hernia, you'll most likely have these two symptoms:
Inguinal hernias are common, particularly in men older than 40. About 25% of men will have an inguinal hernia at some point. Only about 2% of women develop the condition.
If you think you have an inguinal hernia, you should seek medical attention. It can cause serious problems if left untreated.
A healthcare provider will ask you about your symptoms and perform a physical examination. They may order tests, such as X-rays and CT scans, to take pictures inside your abdomen and pelvis.
A healthcare provider may be able to push or massage a hernia and put the tissue back in place. But that correction is usually temporary. Surgery, called herniorrhaphy or hernioplasty, is the only cure.
Not all inguinal hernias can be prevented, but you can do some things to lessen your risk:
Avoid certain types of exercise that put extra pressure on your abdominal wall and bottom of your pelvis:
Straining to poop can lead to an inguinal hernia. To prevent constipation and straining, drink plenty of water and get regular physical activity. You can also eat plenty of foods that are rich in fiber, including:
An inguinal hernia can lead to serious problems, so you should seek medical attention if you experience:
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The inguinal ligament is a set of two bands in your groin that connect the oblique muscles of your abdomen to your pelvis. Inguinal hernia is a common problem in the inguinal area, especially in men older than 40. If you have pain or a bump in your groin, talk to a healthcare provider.
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Last reviewed on 07/07/2025.
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