Recently I have been bothered by a pain close to my groin area on my right side. It is as if something gets displaced if I move the wrong way, or sometimes when I cough or sneeze. It helps to sit with my right leg up near my stomach or to push it in with my hand. I assumed it was my ovary. I am worried now that it may be something serious. I never really looked into getting it checked out because I have had it so long. A doctor had told my mother it was nothing and might be something to take care of when I was older, so I never really worried. Any thoughts?

Nickie

It's difficult to say what is going on without the benefit of doing an examination. One possibility that comes to mind is a hernia. A hernia is an area of weakness in the fascia, the tough layer of tissue that holds us together inside. A hernia in the groin -- called an inguinal hernia -- often causes discomfort, especially after long periods of standing. If a loop of intestine works its way through the opening and becomes trapped, surgery must be performed on an emergency basis.

You should see a doctor to have your problem diagnosed. If it is a hernia, a surgeon may be able to repair it laparoscopically, taking care of the problem through a few tiny incisions.