Belly Button Hernia in Infants

Babies will usually only get a hernia in one of two places: their groin or around their belly button, according to the University of Virginia Health System. Belly button hernias are also known as umbilical hernias. This type of hernia usually occurs a few months after birth as a result of muscles not growing together.

  1. Identification

    • As a fetus grows, there is a hole in the abdomen muscle that allows the umbilical cord to get through. After birth, the abdomen muscles are supposed to grow together to cover up the hole. An umbilical hernia occurs because each abdomen muscle grew, but did not join each other like they are supposed to.

    Risk

    • Umbilical hernias are more likely to occur in babies that are African-American or born prematurely, according to The University of Virginia Health System. Babies with cystic fibrosis also have a greater risk of getting a hernia.

    Symptoms

    • A bulge or swelling around the baby's belly button suggests an umbilical hernia. The bump may become bigger when the baby cries.

    Treatment

    • Some hernias can be safely pushed back in by a pediatrician. Surgery is usually not necessary. Most hernias go away on their own by the time the baby reaches 1 year in age, according to the University of Virginia Health System.

    Complications

    • Some hernias are not reducible because the loop of an intestine is caught in a less developed area of the stomach. This can result in crying, vomiting, redness and fever.

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