Back
Print 

Inguinal canal

Skip Navigation

Top of the page

The inguinal canal is a natural passage or opening through the muscles of the abdominal (belly) wall. Before babies are born, the testicles descend from the abdomen into the scrotum through the inguinal canal, or a ligament passes through the canal to the large folds of skin (labia) surrounding the vagina.

The inguinal canal varies in length, depending on a person's age. It can be up to 3 in. (7.6 cm) in adults.

The inguinal canal usually closes before a baby is born or by age 2. But the canal may stay open into adulthood. If the canal is open, tissue from inside the abdomen may bulge through the canal, causing an indirect inguinal hernia.

Current as of: October 19, 2023

Author: Ignite Healthwise, LLC Staff

Clinical Review Board
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.

Current as of: October 19, 2023

Author: Ignite Healthwise, LLC Staff

Clinical Review Board
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.

The Health Encyclopedia contains general health information. Not all treatments or services described are covered benefits for Kaiser Permanente members or offered as services by Kaiser Permanente. For a list of covered benefits, please refer to your Evidence of Coverage or Summary Plan Description. For recommended treatments, please consult with your health care provider.