Umbilical hernia during pregnancy is common due to increased abdominal pressure. In most cases, it is not dangerous and can be monitored until delivery. However, severe pain, rapid enlargement, or signs of incarceration require immediate medical attention.
Pregnant women with umbilical hernia often experience a visible bulge around the navel. Symptoms may worsen as pregnancy progresses, but complications remain rare. Doctors generally recommend postponing surgery until after childbirth unless emergencies arise.
Conservative management includes supportive belts, posture adjustments, and limiting strenuous activity. Regular prenatal check-ups allow early detection of any progression. Patients are advised to report sudden pain, redness, or gastrointestinal symptoms promptly to ensure safety.
Postpartum hernia repair is usually straightforward and effective. Surgeons may use minimally invasive techniques with mesh reinforcement for long-term results. Planning surgery after pregnancy helps prevent recurrence and allows the mother to recover without unnecessary risk.
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What Is an Umbilical Hernia During Pregnancy and How Does It Develop?
An umbilical hernia occurs when abdominal contents, such as intestines, protrude through an opening or weak spot in the abdominal muscles around the belly button. You can think of it like the door frame in your house loosening over time, forming a small gap through which you can peek inside. As the uterus grows during pregnancy, the intra-abdominal pressure increases. This increase puts further strain on an already weak area. Especially if the abdominal muscles were not very strong beforehand, there is excess weight, or there have been multiple pregnancies, the likelihood of this weak spot turning into a hernia rises. Moreover, pregnancy hormones (such as relaxin) loosen tissues and ligaments, so umbilical hernia can develop due to changes in the abdominal muscles and connective tissues. Typically, it first appears as a small swelling or a bump that can be felt while coughing or sneezing.
Can an Umbilical Hernia During Pregnancy Harm Your Baby?
The most important question is whether this condition can harm the baby. Fortunately, most umbilical hernias do not directly threaten the baby’s health. The hernia is due to a defect in the mother’s abdominal wall and generally does not come into direct contact with the uterus where the baby is developing. However, in rare cases, complications such as “incarceration” (trapping) or “strangulation” (cut-off blood supply) can occur. These require prompt medical intervention. In such cases, if tissues like the intestines are deprived of blood supply, there is a serious risk to the mother, which can indirectly affect the baby. But this scenario is quite rare. In most cases, the hernia remains a small swelling, and you can continue a normal pregnancy course without disruption.
What Are the Common Symptoms of Umbilical Hernia During Pregnancy?
The first symptom that comes to mind with an umbilical hernia is a visible swelling around the belly button. You can imagine this swelling as a balloon slightly pushed outward beneath the skin. Especially when you cough, stand up, or lift something heavy, this bulge becomes more pronounced. Some expectant mothers may only notice a slight feeling of pressure or fullness, while others might find that the hernia presents as a general feeling of discomfort. Some may also complain of moderate pain or discomfort. This pain usually increases with movements that engage the abdominal muscles (such as bending over or reaching out). Rarely, if severe pain, nausea, or color changes appear, this may indicate that the hernia is trapped. In such a situation, you should seek medical attention immediately.
What Factors Cause Umbilical Hernia During Pregnancy?
The primary underlying reason for a hernia is the strain on a weak spot in the abdominal wall due to the increased intra-abdominal pressure during pregnancy. There can be various causes for this weakness: genetic predisposition, strain on the abdominal muscles from previous pregnancies, excess weight or obesity, or sometimes rapid weight loss or prior abdominal surgeries. In multiple pregnancies (twins, triplets, etc.), the uterus grows faster and larger, placing extra strain on the abdominal wall, thereby increasing the risk of hernia. Think of it like over-inflating a balloon; if there is even a small weak spot, that area will be the first to wear out or burst as the pressure rises.
Umbilical hernia due to increased intra-abdominal pressure during pregnancy is seen more frequently in women with risk factors.
How Do Doctors Diagnose Umbilical Hernia During Pregnancy?
The diagnostic process is usually simple and quick. The first step is a physical examination: The doctor palpates the swelling around the belly button to see if the hernia sac can be pushed back inside. In some cases, imaging methods such as ultrasound may be used for further detail. Ultrasound is safe for both the mother and baby and shows the size of the hernia and whether it contains intestines or other tissue. In complex or unclear cases, more detailed imaging, such as MRI, may be employed. However, in most cases, a basic examination and ultrasound are sufficient for diagnosis.
When Should You Seek Medical Attention for Umbilical Hernia During Pregnancy?
If the umbilical hernia is small and does not cause any serious symptoms, it is generally enough to inform your doctor during routine prenatal check-ups. However, if you suddenly notice severe pain, tenderness, increased swelling, or discoloration in the hernia area, you should seek expert advice without delay. Especially if these symptoms are accompanied by nausea, vomiting, or fever, the hernia may be trapped or strangulated. This is a medical emergency. Severe abdominal pressure or “tightening” accompanied by hardening of the swelling in the belly button area is also considered a warning sign.
What Are the Treatment Options for Umbilical Hernia During Pregnancy?
Treatment of umbilical hernia is usually surgical. The treatment approach depends on the size of the hernia and the severity of symptoms. Other types of hernias, such as inguinal hernias, may also require surgery. If the hernia is small and not painful, it is often just monitored. The aim during this period is to prevent further growth and to ensure the mother’s comfort. In such cases, simply being careful throughout pregnancy (for example, by avoiding heavy lifting and getting regular check-ups) is enough.
For painful or complicated hernias, surgery may become necessary. If there is a risk of incarceration or significant pain, doctors generally prefer to operate during the second trimester (the middle of pregnancy), as the risk of preterm birth is lower. Surgery usually involves pushing the hernia sac back in and stitching the abdominal wall. Mesh may be used in some cases, but it’s important to remember that the abdominal wall is constantly expanding during pregnancy. For this reason, the doctor’s approach will vary according to the characteristics of the hernia.
What Happens If Umbilical Hernia During Pregnancy Is Not Treated?
If umbilical hernia during pregnancy is not treated, some undesirable outcomes may occur over time. Especially with increasing intra-abdominal pressure, the hernia becomes more pronounced and the swelling may enlarge. This can lead to severe pain, discomfort, and limitations in daily movements for the expectant mother. Untreated umbilical hernia may, although rarely, cause serious complications such as hernia strangulation. Strangulation occurs when internal organs (usually intestines) become trapped in the hernia sac and their blood supply is cut off, requiring emergency surgery. Additionally, if umbilical hernia during pregnancy is not treated, complications may also arise during childbirth; large hernias can affect the course of delivery and sometimes necessitate a cesarean section. Therefore, if an umbilical hernia occurs during pregnancy, it is important to have regular doctor check-ups and be directed to appropriate treatment as needed, even if symptoms are mild.
What Can Be Done to Prevent Umbilical Hernia During Pregnancy?
Some simple yet effective measures can help prevent umbilical hernia during pregnancy. Exercising regularly and strengthening abdominal muscles before and during pregnancy, and maintaining a healthy weight can reduce the risk of umbilical hernia. To prevent umbilical hernia during pregnancy, it is important to avoid heavy lifting and sudden, strenuous movements. Attending regular doctor check-ups during pregnancy enables early detection of an umbilical hernia and helps prevent potential risks. In addition, consuming fiber-rich foods and drinking plenty of water to prevent constipation reduces intra-abdominal pressure and lowers the risk of umbilical hernia. If an umbilical hernia develops during pregnancy, using a brace recommended by your doctor and complying with restrictions on physical activity are also important. Remember, every pregnancy is different; therefore, following your doctor’s advice and keeping up with regular check-ups is the safest way.
Umbilical Hernia and Physical Activity During Pregnancy: What Should You Pay Attention To?
For women with umbilical hernia during pregnancy, physical activity should be carefully planned. In particular, if you have an umbilical hernia during pregnancy, you should avoid heavy lifting and exercises that excessively strain the abdominal muscles. Instead of sudden and fast movements, choose slow and controlled activities. Low-impact exercises such as swimming, walking, and prenatal yoga can be both safe and beneficial for women with umbilical hernia during pregnancy. However, you should always consult your doctor before starting any exercise program and act according to their recommendations. If you feel pain, discomfort, or increased swelling during physical activity, stop exercising and consult your doctor. Remember, the safest way for women with umbilical hernia during pregnancy is to act under doctor supervision and according to their individual condition.
Umbilical Hernia and Nutrition During Pregnancy: Making Healthy Choices
Nutrition is very important for women with umbilical hernia during pregnancy, both for general health and for managing the hernia. Consuming foods rich in fiber regulates bowel movements, prevents constipation, and helps prevent increased intra-abdominal pressure. This provides relief for expectant mothers with umbilical hernia. Whole wheat bread, oats, vegetables, fruits, and yogurt can be included in your daily diet. Also, drinking sufficient water supports intestinal health. A balanced diet containing healthy fats, proteins, and vitamins meets the needs of both mother and baby. Women with umbilical hernia during pregnancy should follow their doctor’s recommendations about nutrition and, if necessary, seek support from a nutritionist. In any case, healthy and balanced eating plays a crucial role in coping with umbilical hernia during pregnancy.
Umbilical Hernia and Its Psychological Effects During Pregnancy
Umbilical hernia during pregnancy can be impactful not only physically but also psychologically. The pain, discomfort, and movement limitations caused by the hernia can lead to stress and anxiety for the expectant mother. It is natural to worry about possible complications during childbirth. However, regular doctor check-ups and following expert advice help reduce these concerns. Women with umbilical hernia during pregnancy can feel more secure by joining support groups or attending prenatal education classes. Family support is also very important for morale and motivation during this period. Remember, feeling comfortable and secure psychologically is valuable for both you and your baby’s health. If you have any concerns, do not hesitate to talk openly with your doctor; this will help you get through the process more healthily and peacefully.
Can Umbilical Hernia During Pregnancy Resolve on Its Own After Birth?
After birth, the body enters a miraculous recovery process. Intra-abdominal pressure decreases, hormones return to normal, and as excess weight is gradually lost, the abdominal wall approaches its former form. In the postpartum period, constipation is a common problem among women with umbilical hernia. If the hernia is not very large and the mother did not experience severe symptoms during pregnancy, the prominence of the hernia may decrease or even disappear completely after birth. However, this does not happen the same way for everyone. Larger hernias may remain visible after birth and can even continue to cause discomfort in later life. Some symptoms may persist or frequently recur after birth. Therefore, it is important to wait a few months after birth to monitor the hernia; if swelling or pain persists, consult a general surgeon or an obstetrician and gynecologist.
Op. Dr. Ahmet Bekin was born in Istanbul in 1983. He graduated from the Faculty of Medicine at Kocaeli University in 2006 and completed his specialty training in the Department of General Surgery at Istanbul University Çapa Faculty of Medicine in 2011. After his specialization, he worked in the fields of hernia surgery, reflux surgery, obesity surgery, advanced laparoscopic surgery, and robotic surgery. In addition, he received training in endocrine surgery, oncological surgery, and minimally invasive surgery. He is currently accepting patients from Turkey as well as from countries such as Germany and France at his private clinic located in Istanbul.
