Recurrences are usually from around the edges of the mesh. Material gets under the edge and works its way under and back out. The mesh can fold over also, creating a shorter path for a recurrence.

A trained doctor could tell you if you’ve had a recurrence. Your post is not very detailed, besides some new pain and a bulge when you cough. Nobody can really give you more advice than “see a doctor”.

I would be interested in the details of the operation if you can supply them. Open or laparoscopic, direct or indirect hernia, type of mesh, brand of mesh, etc. Good luck.