Hernia In Newborns: What Parents Should Know

Hernias are a common condition affecting newborns and infants. They occur when a part of the intestine or tissue pushes through a weak spot in the abdominal muscles, creating a soft lump or bulge under the skin. In newborns, hernias typically develop around the belly button (umbilical hernia) or in the groin area (inguinal hernia). While hernias can be concerning, they are usually not serious and often close on their own by the time the child turns 4 or 5. However, in some cases, surgery may be required if the hernia persists beyond this age or causes complications. It is important for parents to be aware of the signs and symptoms of hernias to ensure their child receives proper medical care.

Hernias are common in newborns and infants

Hernias are more likely to develop in newborns and infants who were born prematurely, with a family history of hernias, or with certain medical conditions such as cystic fibrosis or developmental dysplasia of the hip. Inguinal hernias are more common in boys, while umbilical hernias are more common in children of African descent.

Umbilical hernias occur when the muscles around the belly button (the umbilical ring) do not close properly after birth. The umbilical ring is a muscle that surrounds the belly button and allows the umbilical cord to supply blood and nutrients to the developing baby during pregnancy. In most cases, this muscle closes shortly after birth, but if it remains open, the intestines can push through, causing a hernia.

Inguinal hernias, on the other hand, are caused by an opening in the abdominal wall that is present at birth. Normally, the inguinal canal, which connects the abdomen to the genitals, closes shortly before or after birth. However, if it does not close completely, a loop of intestine can move into the canal through the weak spot in the abdominal wall, resulting in an inguinal hernia.

While hernias in newborns and infants can be concerning, they are usually not serious and often go away on their own without treatment. Umbilical hernias, in particular, typically close by themselves by the time a child is 4 or 5 years old. However, in some cases, surgery may be recommended if the hernia persists beyond this age or causes problems.

Hernias are usually painless for children

It is normal for a newborn to have a hernia. Hernias occur in about 1% to 5% of infants and children, and they are more common in premature, underweight babies. They are also more common in boys than in girls. Hernias can develop in newborns and infants younger than 6 months old because of a weakness in the belly muscles.

Inguinal hernias, which occur in the groin area, are more likely to require surgery as they never close on their own. They are also more common in boys. Symptoms of a hernia in a child may include a lump or swelling near the groin or belly button, pain or tenderness around the groin or lower belly, and unexplained crying or fussiness.

If you suspect your child has a hernia, it is important to talk to a healthcare professional as they can advise on the best course of action.

Hernias can be caused by a weakness in the belly muscles

It is normal for newborns to have a hernia. In fact, between 10 and 25% of babies are born with an umbilical hernia, which occurs when a weak spot in the belly allows a bit of fat, fluid, or intestine to push through, creating a lump or bulge near the belly button. Umbilical hernias are often painless and usually go away on their own by the time the child is 1 or 2 years old.

In children, hernias often occur in two places: the groin area (inguinal hernia) or around the belly button (umbilical hernia). Inguinal hernias are more common and occur when a loop of intestine moves into the inguinal canal through a weak spot in the belly wall. Umbilical hernias develop when the muscles around the belly button don't close properly after birth, allowing a loop of intestine to move through the opening.

Hernias can be congenital, which means they are present from birth, or acquired later in life. Congenital hernias occur when openings in the abdominal wall that are normal in babies fail to close before or shortly after birth. Acquired hernias can be caused by various factors, including injury, surgery, age, overexertion, and heavy lifting.

Treatment for hernias typically involves surgery, but this depends on the severity and type of hernia. Small or mild hernias may not require immediate surgery, and some umbilical hernias in babies can close on their own without any treatment. However, hernias that don't go away on their own will eventually need surgical repair to prevent complications.

Hernias can be caused by openings in the abdominal wall

It is normal for newborns to have a hernia. In fact, between 10 and 25 percent of babies are born with an umbilical hernia. Hernias are caused by a combination of muscle weakness and strain. In newborns, they are usually caused by openings in the abdominal wall.

Hernias occur when an organ or tissue protrudes through the wall of muscle that encircles it. In the case of newborns, the abdominal muscles are sometimes not strong enough to contain the internal organs, and a hernia can develop. This is often the case with premature or underweight babies, as their abdominal muscles may not have had enough time to develop fully in the womb.

There are two main types of hernias that can affect newborns: inguinal hernias and umbilical hernias. Inguinal hernias occur in the groin area, while umbilical hernias occur around the belly button.

Inguinal hernias are caused by an opening in the abdominal wall that is present at birth. This is called the inguinal canal, and it extends from the abdomen to the genitals. In boys, the inguinal canal allows the testicles to move from the abdomen to the scrotum. Normally, this canal closes shortly before or after birth. However, in some cases, it doesn't close completely, leaving a weak spot in the abdominal wall. This can allow a loop of intestine to move into the inguinal canal, causing an inguinal hernia. Inguinal hernias are more common in boys than in girls.

Umbilical hernias, on the other hand, develop when the muscles around the belly button (the umbilical ring) do not close properly after birth. This leaves a small opening in the abdominal wall, through which a loop of intestine can push through. Umbilical hernias can affect both boys and girls, although they are more common in children of African descent.

While hernias in newborns are usually not cause for alarm, they can lead to serious health complications if left untreated. Therefore, it is important for parents to be able to spot the signs of a hernia and seek medical advice if necessary. Treatment for hernias in newborns may involve surgery, although in some cases, the hernia may close on its own as the child grows.

Hernias can be treated with surgery

It is normal for a newborn to have a hernia. Hernias are common in newborns, especially those born prematurely. They occur when there is a weakness in the abdominal muscles, creating a soft lump or bulge under the skin. This can happen in the groin area (inguinal hernia) or around the belly button (umbilical hernia).

Inguinal Hernia Surgery

Inguinal hernia repair surgery is typically performed soon after diagnosis because there is a risk of the intestine becoming trapped in the inguinal canal, leading to a medical emergency. During the procedure, the surgeon makes a small incision in the groin area and closes the opening to the hernia sac. The loop of intestine is placed back into the abdomen, and the muscles are stitched together. In some cases, a piece of mesh material may be used to strengthen the repaired area.

Laparoscopic surgery is another option, involving two or three tiny incisions and the use of small instruments. The pediatric surgeon will determine the best approach for the child.

Umbilical Hernia Surgery

Umbilical hernias often close on their own by the time a child is four or five years old. However, if the hernia persists beyond the age of three, is still present after age five, or causes problems, surgery may be recommended.

During umbilical hernia surgery, the child is given anesthesia, and a small incision is made at the base of the belly button. The surgeon places any protruding intestine back into the abdominal cavity, and the opening in the muscle is closed with multiple layers of stitches to prevent recurrence. A dressing and/or incision glue is applied to keep the belly button flat.

Most children can return home within a few hours after surgery, but those with additional health issues may require overnight observation in the hospital.

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