Hernias

Although mostly thought of as a condition that affects adults, hernias can develop in babies too – in fact some babies are born with them, especially if they’re premature, and hernia repair is the most common childhood surgeries.

Hernias occur when body tissue or part of an organ pushes through a weak spot in the muscle wall, forming a bulge or lump. In adults hernias tend to happen after strains and injuries, but in babies hernias happen because they’re born with small openings inside their bodies that eventually close up as they grow – but often not before part of an organ or some body tissue squeezes through.

Umbilical hernias are particularly common especially in girls, and are where tissue pokes through near your baby’s belly button (it may only become apparent after her cord stump comes away). Boys are more likely to have inguinal hernias, which are often caused by undescended testicles.

Treatment

A hernia isn’t usually a serious problem but it’s possible for the tissue to become trapped and this requires immediate medical attention – signs include fever, abdominal pain, vomiting and constipation.

Most umbilical hernias heal by themselves but they should be checked by your pediatrician, just in case. It may be possible to gently push the organ or tissue back into place without causing any pain or harm to your baby. If the hernia is only visible when your baby cries, laughs or strains to fill his diaper, the weak spot will probably heal naturally as your baby grows. If it doesn’t retract when your baby relaxes, surgery may be necessary.

Inguinal hernias usually need to be repaired as soon as possible in case they lead to damage of the organ, tissue or testes. A simple operation is performed under general anesthetic to repair the hernia and in a young baby this may require an overnight stay.

The information in this feature is intended for educational purposes only. If you have any concerns about your health, the health of your child or the health of someone you know, please consult with a doctor or other healthcare professional.

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Last Modified: 20/06/2007

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