Swollen lymph node or hernia in groin.

[Cheryl5297]

I have had a lump in my groin about 2 cm big for at least 7 weeks I was showering when I noticed it and it isn't painful, so completely unsure how long I have actually had it. I went to Dr and he couldn't find it while I was laying down when I stood up he could feel it. He said it was a swollen lymph node and that if it doesn't go away in another 6 weeks to call him and he will set me up with a surgeon for a needle biopsy. Needless to say I am freaking out because my father had lymphoma, but my question is if the lump cant be felt while laying down isn't that more typical of a hernia not a swollen gland? I am a 33 year old female that had 2 pregnancies in the last 2 years if that matters. All answers appreciated, I suffer from severe health anxiety and just trying to ease my mind. Thank you

[Ken_PA]

It's far, far more likely to be from infection than from any cancer. That's especially true if it's not getting bigger.

For all the times that people visit a doctor because they have a lymph node which doesn't go down, only about 3% end up having a cancer. The odds are very much on your side here. I wouldn't worry as long as it doesn't get much bigger and more don't start popping up in other places. (Don't keep probing and rubbing it or that irritation can make it get bigger.)

In cases like yours, some docs order a needle biopsy but some order a sonogram.

Btw, not all kinds of lymphoma have a genetic component - they're not family related.

[Cheryl5297]

Thank you Ken! You have taken some burden off of me. :)

[Cheryl5297]

I appreciate your response

[Ken_PA]

Thanks for dropping in to say that, Cheryl. I'm glad I was able to help.

[Ken_PA]

Hi, I don't know the answer regarding laying versus standing; but if the bump came up fairly suddenly (in a few days) and then plateaued in size, then it's likely not a cancer.

Also, there are reasons (such  as fibrosis) that a reactive node can stay enlarged for a long time while still not being cancer.

Wasn't a sonogram discussed?

[Cheryl5297]

No sonogram discussed. I feel like my dr dismissed my worries. He just said if its there in 4-6 weeks he will refer me to a surgeon for a needle biopsy. I have no idea when it came up i noticed it one day about 6 weeks ago while in the shower. Thank you for your response.