Femoral Hernia A hernia is any type of abnormal protrusion of part of an organ or tissue through the structures that normally contain it. A weak spot or opening in a body wall allows part of the organ or tissue to bulge through. Hernias may develop in almost any area of the body, but they most frequently occur in the abdomen or groin. Hernias are commonly called "ruptures," but this is a misnomer, as nothing is torn or ruptured. Hernias can be present from birth (congenital) or can be caused by stress and/or strain. A femoral hernia is just one of many different types of hernias. They occur when a part of the intestine protrudes into the femoral can