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Last Updated on November 26, 2025 by Bilal Hasdemir
Find out what does an umbilical hernia feel like and how to recognize symptoms early for treatment.
An umbilical hernia shows up as a soft bulge or swelling near the navel. The Medical organization says it’s a tissue bulge on or near the belly button. Knowing the symptoms is important for getting the right treatment.
Symptoms can differ from person to person. Liv Hospital uses advanced diagnostics to help men and women spot these signs. They aim to help people get the care they need.
An umbilical hernia occurs when part of the intestine bulges through an opening in the abdominal muscles near the navel. This condition is marked by a bulge around the belly button. It can be uncomfortable and sometimes painful.
An umbilical hernia happens when there’s a weakness or opening in the muscular wall around the navel. This allows part of the intestine to bulge through the abdominal wall. It’s more common in infants and adults with increased abdominal pressure.
According to Southeast Michigan Surgical Specialists, umbilical hernias often stem from a weakness in the abdominal wall. This weakness can be present at birth or develop over time due to various factors.
The main cause of an umbilical hernia is a weak spot or opening in the abdominal muscles near the belly button. Several factors can lead to this weakness, including:
Certain individuals are more likely to develop an umbilical hernia due to various factors. These risk factors include:
Understanding these causes and risk factors is key to preventing and managing umbilical hernias effectively.
Knowing how an umbilical hernia feels is key to catching it early. An umbilical hernia happens when part of the intestine bulges through a weak spot in the belly muscles near the navel. The symptoms can differ, but there are common signs to watch for.
An umbilical hernia feels like a soft bulge or swelling near the navel. Some people may feel discomfort or a burning sensation in this area. These feelings can get worse when you cough, strain, or stand up.
A key sign of an umbilical hernia is a bulge or lump near the belly button. This bulge is soft to the touch and may get bigger when you stand or strain. The size of the bulge can change, and it might be able to be pushed back into the belly.
The pain or discomfort from an umbilical hernia can vary a lot. Some people might feel only a little discomfort, while others might have more serious pain. A burning sensation is also something many people complain about.
| Sensation | Description | Common Triggers |
| Soft Bulge | A lump near the navel that is soft to the touch | Standing, straining |
| Discomfort | Mild to severe pain or unease | Coughing, lifting heavy objects |
| Burning Sensation | A feeling of burning near the navel | Straining, certain positions |
Knowing the signs of umbilical hernias is key to getting the right medical help. These hernias show clear signs that help doctors diagnose and treat them.
A bulge or swelling near the belly button is a common sign of an umbilical hernia. This bulge gets bigger when you cough, strain, or stand up. The bulge is usually soft and can be pushed back into the belly. Sometimes, you might not see the bulge, making it harder to diagnose.
People with umbilical hernias often feel pain or discomfort in their belly button area. The pain can be mild or very sharp, getting worse if the hernia gets stuck or cut off. Some may also feel a burning or heavy feeling around the belly button. The pain can come and go, depending on the hernia size and what you’re doing.
Umbilical hernia symptoms can get worse if not treated. Doing things that put pressure on your belly, like lifting heavy things, coughing, or straining, can make it worse. It’s important to watch for any changes in symptoms and see a doctor if they get worse or new ones appear. Catching these signs early can prevent serious problems.
It’s important to know the symptoms of umbilical hernias to get help on time. By recognizing the visual signs and physical feelings, you can take steps to get medical care.
Umbilical hernias in women can be different due to pregnancy and body shape. Knowing these differences helps doctors diagnose and treat them better.
Women often show umbilical hernia symptoms in their own way. Southeast Michigan Surgical Specialists say women’s signs can be tricky to spot.
Key differences include:
Pregnancy can make umbilical hernias worse in women. The extra pressure in the belly can make symptoms more severe.
Figuring out umbilical hernias in women is hard because of their unique signs and how pregnancy affects them. Doctors have to think about these things when they check symptoms.
| Symptom | Commonality in Women | Diagnostic Challenge |
| Pain Levels | Variable | Distinguishing from other abdominal issues |
| Characteristic Bulge | May be less pronounced | Detection during physical examination |
| Associated Symptoms | Nausea, discomfort | Attributing symptoms to the correct cause |
Men face unique challenges when it comes to umbilical hernias. Knowing the gender-specific risk factors and symptoms is key. Lifestyle and physiological differences play a big role in men’s risk for certain hernias.
Men often notice a bulge or swelling near the navel. This bulge gets more noticeable when they cough, strain, or stand up. The bulge is usually painless but can hurt or feel like burning when bending or lifting heavy things.
The texture of the hernia can vary; it may feel soft or firm to the touch. Men might also feel a heavy or pressured feeling in their belly. In some cases, the hernia can get stuck or cut off, causing severe pain and needing quick medical help.
Several factors increase the risk of umbilical hernias in men. These include:
Men who do strenuous work or jobs that involve heavy lifting are at higher risk. Also, conditions that raise abdominal pressure, like chronic coughing or sneezing, can lead to umbilical hernias.
There are many myths about umbilical hernias in men. One is that hernias only happen in older adults. While age is a factor, hernias can occur at any age due to different reasons.
Another myth is that hernias always hurt. In fact, many men with umbilical hernias don’t feel much pain until the hernia gets stuck or cut off.
Knowing these differences and being aware of the specific risk factors and symptoms helps men get medical help on time. This can reduce the risk of serious complications.
Many think umbilical hernias always hurt or show a bulge. But, this isn’t true for everyone. They can show up in different ways, making it hard to know if you have one.
Some believe umbilical hernias always hurt. But, not everyone feels pain. These “silent” hernias can lead to big problems if not treated.
Doctors say some people might not know they have a hernia until it gets worse. It’s important to get checked regularly.
Many think umbilical hernias always look like a bulge. But, some don’t show up at all. This is true for people who are overweight or have small hernias.
Some hernias can be pushed back into the belly, making them hard to see. But, this doesn’t mean they’re not serious.
Hernias can feel different. Some are hard, while others are soft or sore. How hard or soft it feels depends on the size and if it’s trapped.
| Hernia Type | Texture | Pain Level |
| Small, Reducible | Soft | Minimal |
| Large, Incarcerated | Hard | Severe |
| Strangulated | Tender | Extreme |
Knowing about different symptoms and textures can help you get help if you think you have a hernia.
Checking yourself for an umbilical hernia is important. It starts with knowing what to look for. By understanding the signs and symptoms, you can spot issues early and get help if needed.
To check yourself for an umbilical hernia, follow these steps:
Do self-examinations when you’re relaxed and comfortable. Avoid straining or forcing, as it can cause discomfort or make the problem worse.
Best Practices:
Common signs of an umbilical hernia include:
| Signs | Description |
| Visible Bulge | A noticeable swelling or bulge around the navel. |
| Pain or Discomfort | A feeling of pain, burning, or discomfort, specially when coughing, straining, or lifting heavy objects. |
| Soft or Hard Texture | The bulge may feel soft or hard to the touch. |
Self-examination is helpful but has its limits. Not all hernias are easy to feel, and some may not show symptoms. If you think you have a hernia, see a doctor for a proper check-up and treatment.
Remember, self-diagnosis is not a substitute for professional medical evaluation.
It’s important to know the possible problems with umbilical hernias. While they’re usually not dangerous, ignoring them can lead to serious issues.
An incarcerated hernia happens when the bulge gets stuck and can’t go back inside. This can cause a lot of pain, nausea, and vomiting. If you notice these signs, you should see a doctor right away.
Key signs of an incarcerated hernia include:
Strangulation is a serious problem where the blood supply to the bulge is cut off. This is a medical emergency that needs immediate surgery. Symptoms include severe pain, tenderness, and redness around the hernia.
Strangulation can cause tissue death and serious infections if not treated quickly.
Other signs that mean you should see a doctor include more pain, changes in the hernia, or if it can’t be pushed back in. Watching your symptoms and getting medical advice when needed is key to avoiding problems.
If you experience any of the following, seek immediate medical attention:
Umbilical hernias can be managed well with the right treatment. Knowing the symptoms and treatment options is key to making good health choices.
Managing symptoms often means making lifestyle changes and getting medical help. The treatment can range from watching the condition to surgery, based on how severe it is and what the patient needs.
Managing an umbilical hernia might include watching for changes, making lifestyle changes to feel better, and considering surgery when needed. Understanding the treatment options helps people make choices that fit their health goals.
In females, a hernia might show as a bulge or swelling. It can also cause discomfort or pain, mainly when coughing, lifting, or bending.
Yes, it’s possible to have a hernia without pain. Some people might not notice symptoms until the hernia becomes trapped or strangulated.
Hernias can feel different. Some are soft and can go back in, while others are firm or tender. This depends on what’s inside and if it’s trapped.
To spot a hernia, a doctor will do a physical check. They look for a bulge or swelling and check for tenderness or discomfort.
Symptoms include a visible bulge and discomfort or pain in the abdomen. This pain is often worse when straining. Nausea or vomiting can happen if the hernia gets trapped.
Yes, some hernias, like small ones or in the early stages, might not show a bulge. Diagnosis often relies on symptoms and a physical check.
To check for a hernia, lie down and then stand up. Cough or strain to see if a bulge appears. Also, feel for tenderness or discomfort in the suspected area.
No, not all hernias have a visible bulge. This is true for small hernias or if the person has a higher body mass index (BMI).
No, hernias aren’t always painful. Some may not cause any symptoms or only cause discomfort when straining or lifting heavy objects.
A hernia in the stomach area feels like a bulge or swelling. It might also cause discomfort, pain, or a feeling of heaviness. This is often worse when bending or lifting.
To figure out if you have a hernia, look for signs like a visible bulge, discomfort or pain, and pain when straining. See a healthcare professional for a sure diagnosis.
Park, S., et al. (2024). Associations of cholecystectomy with metabolic health: A large population-based retrospective cohort study. Scientific Reports, 14, 12345. Retrieved from
