What is the treatment for a hernia?

In response to a question on healthshare.com.au

Most hernias need surgery for effective treatment.

Groin hernias (inguinal, femoral) hernias should always be repaired, as they have a risk of entrapping the internal organs and causing a bowel obstruction.

Umbilical (belly button) hernias often need surgery; the exception is a small hernia that has been there lifelong without causing problems.

Hiatus hernia is a separate condition that causes heartburn; these hernias, where the stomach bulges up internally into the chest, are only repaired if they are large, or if surgery is needed to treat heartburn symptoms.

Most hernias can now be treated with laparoscopic (keyhole) surgery, although not all surgeons are trained to perform laparoscopic hernia repair.