An umbilical hernia during pregnancy is a rare medical condition affecting no more than 0.08% of women, and it does not affect the fetus at all.
What is an umbilical hernia during pregnancy?
This type of hernia occurs when the belly button did not close completely since the mother’s birth, making it one of the weakest areas of the abdomen. As the months of pregnancy progress, especially in the second and third trimesters, pressure on the abdominal area increases due to the enlargement of the uterus and the growth of the fetus, pushing the intestines or abdominal tissues forward through the navel.
Causes and risk factors for a belly button hernia while pregnant
Several factors may increase the likelihood of developing an umbilical hernia during pregnancy, most notably:
- Carrying twins (doublets or triplets).
- Weight gain and obesity.
- Weakness of the abdominal and stomach muscles.
- Persistent coughing or the presence of excess fluids in the body.
- A family or personal history of hernia, or having a minor hernia before starting pregnancy.
- The force of the fetus’s push during growth.
Symptoms of an umbilical hernia
Signs of an umbilical hernia appear in several forms, including:
- A small bulge around the navel, ranging in size from a grape to a lemon.
- The protrusion becomes more prominent when laughing or coughing.
- A feeling of pressure or sensitivity when touching the belly button during pregnancy.
- In advanced and serious cases, sharp pain may appear, accompanied by constipation or vomiting.
Treatment options for an umbilical hernia
The doctor determines the method of dealing with the condition based on its severity:
- Mild cases: These require no medical intervention, as they consist of fatty tissues that return to their place after childbirth.
- Moderate cases: The doctor pushes the protruding parts of the intestines back inside the belly button, and the navel often returns to its normal shape after delivery.
- Surgical intervention: Simple laparoscopic surgery is usually performed after childbirth. However, in cases of a strangulated umbilical hernia, surgery may be carried out during the second trimester.
To control the condition and avoid complications, it is recommended to wear loose clothing, refrain from carrying heavy objects, and avoid constipation by drinking water and eating fiber.
Common questions about this condition
What causes umbilical hernia during pregnancy?
The cause is the increasing pressure of the uterus on the abdomen as the fetus grows, leading to the protrusion of the intestines through a weak point in the umbilical muscles.
What are the symptoms of an umbilical hernia during pregnancy?
They consist of a bulge in the navel area that becomes more prominent when coughing or laughing, along with a feeling of pressure or sensitivity when touched.
Is an umbilical hernia dangerous for the pregnant woman?
The condition is rare, but it may carry some potential risks in advanced cases, such as a strangulated hernia that requires urgent surgery.
When should you visit a doctor immediately?
You should go to the doctor if warning signs appear indicating the condition is progressing, such as:
- Feeling sudden, sharp pain in the navel area.
- Persistent vomiting.
- Severe constipation coinciding with pain inside the belly button.
Disclaimer: This content is for informational purposes only and does not substitute for professional medical advice.
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Illustration: AI-generated
approved by: Medica Health team