A hernia is a defect in the layer of tissue, the fascia, that surrounds the intestines. The intestines come out of this defect and lie under the skin, causing a visible bulge. Hernias are likely to get complicated, and should be operated without undue delay. Hernias do not cause infertility, although they are occasionally associated with infertility. That is to say, some patients have both a hernia and infertility. However, I repeat, the hernia does not cause infertility. You should get a semen examination done.