An umbilical hernia is a common condition in infants, where part of the intestine protrudes through an opening in the abdominal muscles at the navel (belly button).
Pediatric umbilical hernias are quite common and generally not a cause for concern.
In infants, an umbilical hernia happens when the opening in the abdominal muscles does not close completely after birth.
This condition can occur in both boys and girls and is more prevalent in premature infants and those with low birth weight.
Pediatric surgeons at WashU Medicine
Pediatric surgeons at WashU Medicine see patients at St. Louis Children’s Hospital, one of the top children’s hospitals in the nation.
What does an umbilical hernia look like?
An umbilical hernia usually looks like a soft swelling through the skin around the belly button.
The hernia might stick out further when the baby is sitting up, crying, or straining.
Umbilical hernias can be as small as half an inch, or up to about two inches.
Learn more: What is a hernia?
Screenings and diagnosis
If you notice a bulge in your baby’s navel area, especially when they cry, cough or strain, it may be an umbilical hernia.
The first step is to consult your pediatrician.
A diagnosis typically involves a physical examination where the doctor will feel for the hernia and may check if it can be gently pushed back into the abdomen.
In most cases, no additional tests are required unless there are complications or the diagnosis is uncertain.
Types of treatment
Pediatric umbilical hernias often resolve on their own by the time a child reaches age 1 or 2.
However, there are treatment options to consider:
- Non-surgical care: Many umbilical hernias in infants close naturally without medical intervention. Your doctor will monitor the hernia through regular check-ups.
- Surgical care: Surgery is considered if the hernia is large, painful, or has not resolved by age 2. The surgical procedure generally involves making a small incision near the hernia, pushing the protruding tissue back into the abdomen, and stitching the muscle back together to close the opening.
Potential complications
While pediatric umbilical hernia repair is generally safe, it’s important to be aware of potential complications. These can include infection, bleeding, or reactions to anesthesia.
Recurrence of the hernia (the hernia coming back) is rare but possible.
Strangulation of the hernia, where the tissue becomes trapped and loses its blood supply, is a severe but uncommon complication necessitating immediate medical intervention.
Recovery
After surgery, it is important to follow your health care provider’s instructions to ensure your child’s smooth recovery. These instructions might include:
- Activity limitation: Limit your child’s physical activity and ensure they avoid putting pressure on the surgical site for several weeks.
- Wound care: Keep the incision area clean and dry. Your doctor will provide specific instructions on how to care for the wound and signs of infection to watch out for.
- Pain management: Use prescribed or recommended medications, like acetaminophen, to manage post-surgical discomfort.
Most children recover quickly from umbilical hernia repair and can return to normal activities within a few weeks, although recovery time can vary by individual health and the specifics of the surgery.
Pediatric umbilical hernia repair is a routine and generally successful procedure. If your child has an umbilical hernia, regular visits with your pediatrician will help determine the best treatment approach.
