Which hernia occurs in the upper thigh region and is more common in females?

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Study for the UCF ZOO3733C Human Anatomy Test 4. Prepare with multiple choice questions, flashcards, and get explanations for each question. Ace your exam!

A femoral hernia occurs in the upper thigh region, specifically through the femoral canal, which is located just below the inguinal ligament. This type of hernia is indeed more prevalent in females due to the anatomical differences in the pelvis between men and women. Women generally have a wider pelvis, which can contribute to the increased risk of developing a femoral hernia.

In contrast, inguinal hernias are more common in males, as they arise through the inguinal canal, which is more prominent in males due to the passage of the spermatic cord. Direct hernias and epigastric hernias are less likely to occur in the thigh region as well; direct hernias occur through a weakness in the abdominal wall in the inguinal region, while epigastric hernias occur in the upper abdomen, not affecting the thigh area. Thus, the femoral hernia is the best answer given its specific location and higher incidence in females.