Actor and singer Suki Waterhouse recently revealed on X (formerly Twitter) that tight pants caused a hernia, requiring hospitalization. She shared images of herself wearing the pants and in a hospital bed. Medical professionals offer varying perspectives on the link between tight clothing and hernias. Dr. Yewande Alimi, a bariatric and minimally invasive surgeon at MedStar Georgetown University Hospital, explains that a hernia is a hole in the abdominal wall causing tissue protrusion. Drs. Marcoandrea Giorgi and Charlotte Horne, surgeons at Brown University and the Mayo Clinic respectively, suggest that while tight pants might worsen an existing hernia by increasing pressure, they are unlikely to cause one. They emphasize that hernias are common and often asymptomatic, recommending consultation with a doctor for diagnosis and treatment options.

The incident sparked discussion about the relationship between clothing choices and potential health complications. While experts largely dismiss the idea of tight pants directly causing hernias, they highlight the importance of seeking medical attention for any abdominal pain or bulge. Surgery might be necessary for painful or complicated hernias. Maintaining a healthy weight and lifestyle can help minimize the risk of hernia development.