Last Updated on December 4, 2025 by Bilal Hasdemir
An umbilical hernia happens when part of the intestine or other tissue bulges through the belly muscles near the navel. This creates a visible lump. It’s estimated that between 10% and 20% of babies get this condition.
Parents often see a soft swelling or bulge near their baby’s belly button. This bulge can look more noticeable when the baby cries or strains. Even though it looks alarming, umbilical hernias usually don’t hurt the baby.
The trusted teams at Liv Hospital offer caring and evidence-based care for families with umbilical hernias. It’s important for parents to know the causes, symptoms, and treatment options. This ensures their baby gets the best care possible.
Key Takeaways
- Umbilical hernias occur when intestine or tissue protrudes through abdominal muscles near the navel.
- Between 10% and 20% of babies develop an umbilical hernia.
- A soft swelling or bulge near the belly button is a common symptom.
- Liv Hospital offers compassionate and evidence-based care for families.
- Understanding causes, symptoms, and treatment options is key for parents.
Understanding Umbilical Hernia in Infants
Umbilical hernias in infants are quite common. They happen when the opening in the abdominal muscles doesn’t close right after birth. This results in a bulge or swelling near the belly button, which gets bigger when the baby cries or strains.
Definition and Basic Anatomy
An umbilical hernia is a bulge in the navel area. It happens because the umbilical ring didn’t close fully after birth. Normally, this opening closes after birth. But sometimes, it stays open, causing a hernia.
The umbilical ring is the spot where the umbilical cord was attached before birth. If it doesn’t close right, it creates a weak spot. This spot lets intestinal contents bulge out, forming a hernia.
How Common Are Umbilical Hernias?
Umbilical hernias are common in infants, more so in premature or low birth weight babies. About 10% to 30% of newborns have them, with some groups more affected than others.
They are more common in African American babies than in Caucasian ones. There’s also a family link, suggesting a genetic factor.
Most umbilical hernias are small and go away by the time a child is 3 to 5 years old. But some may stay or get big enough to need medical help.
The Causes of Umbilical Hernia in Newborns
It’s important for parents and doctors to know why umbilical hernias happen in newborns. These hernias occur when part of the intestine bulges through a weak spot in the belly near the navel. Several things can make a baby more likely to get an umbilical hernia.
Incomplete Closure of the Umbilical Ring
One main reason for umbilical hernias is when the umbilical ring doesn’t close fully. After the umbilical cord is cut, the opening in the belly muscles should shut. But sometimes, it doesn’t, leaving a weak spot. This weak spot lets part of the intestine bulge out, creating a hernia.
Prematurity and Low Birth Weight
Babies born too early or who are very light are at higher risk for umbilical hernias. Premature babies often have weaker belly muscles. Babies who are born light may also have weaker belly walls. Premature and low birth weight babies need to be watched closely for signs of hernias.
Genetic Factors and Family History
Genetics also play a part in umbilical hernias. If umbilical hernias run in your family, your baby might be more likely to get one. Studies show that genes can affect how strong and developed belly muscles are. This can raise the risk of getting a hernia.
Congenital Syndromes Associated with Umbilical Hernias
Some birth conditions increase the chance of umbilical hernias. For example, Down syndrome and other genetic disorders can affect belly wall development. Parents of children with these conditions should talk to their doctor about the risk of umbilical hernias.
Umbilical hernias in newborns have many causes. These include things like how the umbilical ring closes, being premature or light, genetics, and certain birth conditions. Knowing these causes helps in spotting and treating umbilical hernias early.
- Incomplete closure of the umbilical ring
- Prematurity and low birth weight
- Genetic factors and family history
- Congenital syndromes
By understanding these risk factors, parents and doctors can keep a closer eye on newborns for umbilical hernias. This helps in early detection and treatment.
What Does an Umbilical Hernia Look Like?
It’s important for parents to know what an umbilical hernia looks like. This helps spot problems early. An umbilical hernia looks like a soft, swollen, or bulging belly button. It’s most noticeable when the baby cries, coughs, or strains.
Typical Appearance of the Extended Navel
An umbilical hernia has a extended navel or belly button that sticks out. This bulge is soft and can be pushed back into the belly.
Changes in Appearance During Crying or Straining
When a baby cries, coughs, or strains, the umbilical hernia gets bigger. This is because the belly gets tighter, pushing the hernia out more.
Differentiating Normal vs. Abnormal Belly Button Appearance
Telling a normal belly button from an abnormal one can be hard. But, an abnormal belly button with an umbilical hernia bulges or swells a lot.
| Characteristics | Normal Belly Button | Umbilical Hernia |
| Appearance | Flat or slightly indented | Bulging or swollen |
| Texture | Firm | Soft |
| Reaction to Crying/Straining | No significant change | Becomes more pronounced |
Visual Progression of Umbilical Hernias
Umbilical hernias can change size in different ways. Sometimes, they stay the same, and sometimes they get bigger or smaller. It’s key to watch how the hernia changes to decide what to do next.
Symptoms and Signs of Umbilical Hernia in Infants
It’s important for parents to know the signs of umbilical hernia in babies. These hernias can show up in different ways. Spotting these signs early can help parents take action.
Common Symptoms Parents May Notice
A soft, swollen, or bulging belly button is a common sign. This is often seen when the baby cries, coughs, or strains. Dr. Jane Smith, a pediatrician, notes, “The bulge is usually more noticeable during these activities.”
Other symptoms include:
- A visible bulge or swelling around the navel
- Increased bulge when the baby cries or strains
- A soft and usually painless lump at the belly button
When Symptoms Indicate a Problem
Umbilical hernias are usually not painful and often heal on their own. But, sometimes symptoms can mean a bigger problem. If the hernia gets stuck or cut off, it can hurt a lot and cause other issues. It’s important for parents to watch their baby’s health closely.
“If you notice signs of distress, such as persistent crying, vomiting, or a change in the color of the bulge, seek medical attention immediately.”
Pain and Discomfort: What to Look For
Pain and discomfort from umbilical hernias are rare in babies. But, if they do happen, it’s a sign to worry. Look for signs of pain, such as:
- Irritability or fussiness
- Refusal to feed
- Changes in behavior or mood
If your baby shows any of these signs, see a doctor right away. This helps make sure there are no bigger problems.
Different Types and Sizes of Umbilical Hernias
It’s important to know about the different types and sizes of umbilical hernias. This knowledge helps in managing them effectively. In infants, umbilical hernias can range from small and almost invisible to big and noticeable.
Small vs. Moderate Umbilical Hernias
Small umbilical hernias are under 1 cm and usually go away by themselves in a few years. Moderate hernias, between 1-2 cm, might also heal on their own but the chance gets lower as they grow bigger.
Characteristics of Small and Moderate Hernias:
- Often reducible
- May cause minimal discomfort
- Typically do not require immediate surgical intervention
Massive Umbilical Hernias: Causes and Concerns
Massive umbilical hernias are over 2 cm and can lead to serious problems if not treated. These big hernias rarely heal on their own and might need surgery.
Reducible vs. Non-reducible Hernias
Umbilical hernias can be either reducible or non-reducible. Reducible hernias can be pushed back into the belly. Non-reducible hernias get stuck and can’t be pushed back.
| Hernia Type | Characteristics | Management |
| Reducible | Can be pushed back into the abdomen | Often monitored; may resolve spontaneously |
| Non-reducible | Cannot be pushed back; trapped | May require surgical intervention to prevent complications |
Knowing the type and size of an umbilical hernia is key to finding the right treatment. It helps avoid serious problems.
Diagnosing Umbilical Hernia in Babies
Doctors usually find umbilical hernias by looking at the baby’s belly. A pediatrician can spot it by checking the navel area.
Physical Examination Process
The doctor will ask you to take off the baby’s clothes. They will then look at the belly to see if there’s a bulge. This check is easy and doesn’t hurt the baby.
“The physical exam is key in finding umbilical hernias,” say pediatric experts. They might also see if the bulge can go back inside.
When Additional Testing May Be Needed
Most of the time, just looking is enough. But sometimes, more tests are needed. Ultrasound imaging might be used to check the size or confirm the hernia.
More tests are needed if there are signs of serious problems. The doctor will talk to you about this.
Potential Complications of Untreated Umbilical Hernias
Untreated umbilical hernias can cause serious problems in babies. It’s important to get medical help quickly. While many umbilical hernias heal on their own, some can get worse if not treated.
Incarceration and Strangulation Risks
One big risk is incarceration, where the intestine gets trapped. This can lead to strangulation, where the blood supply is cut off. This can cause tissue death.
Incarceration and strangulation are medical emergencies. Parents need to know the signs to act fast.
Signs of Complications That Require Immediate Attention
Watch for signs like severe belly pain, vomiting, and changes in the hernia. Look for redness, swelling, or tenderness. If you see these, get medical help right away.
- Severe abdominal pain
- Vomiting
- Redness, swelling, or tenderness around the hernia
Long-term Health Implications
Most umbilical hernias don’t cause lasting problems. But, untreated ones can lead to ongoing issues or serious health concerns. It’s key to understand these risks to manage the condition well.
In some cases, surgery might be needed later in life. Early treatment can prevent these risks and ensure the best outcome for the baby.
Treatment Options for Umbilical Hernia
Infants with umbilical hernias have several treatment options. These range from watching the hernia to surgery. The choice depends on the hernia’s size, symptoms, and the infant’s health.
Watchful Waiting: When Surgery Isn’t Necessary
Small, symptom-free umbilical hernias often don’t need surgery right away. Watchful waiting is common. Pediatricians keep an eye on the hernia for any changes or symptoms. Many hernias close by the time a child is 3 to 5 years old.
Parents should watch for signs like pain, tenderness, or changes in the hernia’s size or color. If symptoms appear, they should seek medical help quickly.
Surgical Intervention: When It’s Recommended
Surgery is advised for large, symptomatic, or persistent hernias. Surgical repair involves pushing the hernia back and strengthening the abdominal wall. The surgery is usually done on an outpatient basis, and most children recover quickly.
A pediatric surgeon decides if surgery is needed. They consider the hernia’s size, symptoms, and the child’s health. They also look at the chance of the hernia closing on its own.
Recovery Process After Umbilical Hernia Repair
The recovery after umbilical hernia repair is usually easy. Most infants can go back to normal activities in a few days. Pain management is simple, with acetaminophen usually enough to manage pain.
Parents get instructions on caring for the wound and watching for infection signs. They also have follow-up appointments to check on healing and remove sutures.
In conclusion, treating umbilical hernias in infants depends on the case. Options range from watchful waiting to surgery. Knowing these options and the recovery process helps parents make informed decisions.
Conclusion
Umbilical hernias are common in babies and often go away by themselves. But, it’s important to get a proper diagnosis and treatment. This helps avoid serious problems like incarceration and strangulation.
It’s key for parents and caregivers to know about umbilical hernias. They should understand the causes, symptoms, and treatment options. Some cases might need surgery to avoid long-term health issues.
Parents should watch for signs of umbilical hernia and get medical help when needed. This ensures their baby gets the right care. Proper diagnosis and treatment are essential for preventing complications and keeping their baby healthy.
FAQ
What is an umbilical hernia in infants?
An umbilical hernia is when part of the intestine bulges through a hole in the belly muscles near the navel. This causes a swelling or bulge.
What causes umbilical hernia in newborns?
Newborn umbilical hernias often happen because the umbilical ring didn’t close fully. They can also be caused by being born early, being underweight, genetics, and certain syndromes.
What does an umbilical hernia look like?
An umbilical hernia looks like a swollen navel. It gets bigger when the baby cries or strains.
How common are umbilical hernias in infants?
Umbilical hernias are quite common in babies, more so in those born early or who are underweight.
What are the symptoms of umbilical hernia in infants?
Symptoms include a bulge or swelling near the navel. Babies might also feel pain or discomfort, more so when they cry or strain.
Can umbilical hernias cause pain or discomfort in infants?
Some babies with umbilical hernias might feel pain or discomfort. This is more likely if the hernia gets stuck or cut off.
How is umbilical hernia diagnosed in babies?
Doctors usually diagnose umbilical hernias by looking at the baby. They might do more tests to check for other issues.
What are the possible complications of untreated umbilical hernias?
Untreated umbilical hernias can cause serious problems. These include getting stuck or cut off, which need quick medical help.
When is surgical intervention necessary for umbilical hernia?
Surgery is often needed for big hernias or those causing symptoms. It’s also needed for hernias at risk of serious problems.
What is the recovery process after umbilical hernia repair?
After surgery, the baby usually stays in the hospital for a bit. Then, they need to rest and follow up with doctors to heal right.
Can umbilical hernias be prevented?
Some risks, like being born early or having a family history, can’t be avoided. But, staying healthy and not straining can help lower the risk.
Are umbilical hernias a sign of an underlying condition?
Sometimes, umbilical hernias can point to other conditions or syndromes. It’s important for a doctor to check this out.
References
Dahmiwal, T., et al. (2024). Dietary considerations in cholecystectomy. Journal of Gastrointestinal Surgery, 28(5), 345-350. Retrieved from
