An inguinal hernia takes place when soft tissue tends to protrude through a weak portion of the abdominal muscles. This soft tissue could either be part of the intestine or part of the membrane that lines the abdominal cavity (omentum). What results is a bulge which tends to be fairly painful when you bend over, cough or lift a heavy object. According to research, men are 10 times more likely to develop an inguinal hernia than a woman. Let’s explore why.