An umbilical hernia occurs when the intestines protrude through an opening in the abdominal wall caused by the muscle surrounding the belly button not closing properly. Umbilical hernias are more common among premature and low birth weight babies.
Although umbilical hernias are more common in newborns and babies under 6 months, they can also occur in older children and adults. An umbilical hernia usually closes on its own before the age of 4 without requiring treatment. More severe cases may require umbilical hernia surgery.
Does an Umbilical Hernia Cause Pain for My Baby?
Umbilical hernias in babies are typically painless. The only symptom is the swelling or “herniated” appearance of the baby’s belly button. The bulge may appear and disappear as the baby uses their muscles or strains, such as when crying or having a bowel movement.
Is There Any Harm from an Umbilical Hernia?
Most babies with an umbilical hernia do not experience any complications, and it usually closes on its own over time without needing treatment.
In rare cases, an umbilical hernia can become strangulated. A strangulated hernia occurs when the organs in the abdomen become trapped in the hernia sac, reducing blood flow. Signs of a strangulated umbilical hernia include:
- Discolored bulge
- Fever
- Nausea
- Refusal to eat
- Severe pain
- Tender bulge
- Vomiting
If symptoms of a strangulated umbilical hernia are observed in a baby, a doctor should be consulted immediately.
Resources:
- Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia (2013). Recognizing and Caring for Hernias. https://www.chop.edu/news/recognizing-and-caring-hernias
- American Academy of Pediatrics (2020). Umbilical Hernia in Babies & Children. https://www.healthychildren.org/English/health-issues/conditions/abdominal/Pages/umbilical-hernia-in-children.aspx
- Fall, I., Sanou, A., Ngom, G., Dieng, M., Sankalé, A. A., & Ndoye, M. (2006). Strangulated umbilical hernias in children. Pediatric surgery international, 22(3), 233–235. https://doi.org/10.1007/s00383-006-1634-7