I Have An Inguinal Hernia Which Doesn't Give Me Pain

I have an inguinal hernia which doesn't give me pain or doesn't protrude normally. But once in a while it pops out a little (causes pain). This occures approximately once within a 2 or 3 month period. Usually I can push it back in and no problems. The last time (about a month ago) it popped out and wouldn't go in and I had to go to the ER where a doctor got it back in. I have not had any more problems since. Do you think it is necessary to have surgery? I would prefer not to.