Although an umbilical hernia in babies can be a source of concern for many parents, it’s important to understand that this condition is relatively common, occurring in 10 percent to 15 percent of all children.¹ Understanding what an umbilical hernia is and the appropriate steps to manage it can help provide peace of mind.

An umbilical hernia occurs when a portion of the intestine or fatty tissue pushes through a weak spot in the abdominal muscles near the belly button. It often manifests as a soft bulge or swelling around the navel, particularly when the baby cries, coughs, or strains.² This condition is more common in premature or low-birth-weight infants but can affect any baby.²
 

1. Observe the Symptoms: Most umbilical hernias in infants are small and painless.² Common symptoms include:

• A soft bulge near the belly button.
• Bulging that becomes more noticeable when the baby cries or strains.

2. Call Your Pediatrician: Most umbilical hernias resolve on their own by the time the child is 3–5 years old without the need for treatment.³ However, it’s important to keep your child’s doctor in the loop and have them perform an exam to assess its size, location, and any potential complications.⁴

3. Monitor for Complications: While rare, complications such as strangulation (when the blood supply to the herniated tissue is cut off) require immediate medical attention. Seek urgent care if you notice your baby:

• Appears to be in pain.²
• Begins to vomit.²
• Has tenderness, swelling, or discoloration at the site of the hernia.²

4. Avoid Home Remedies: It might be tempting to try at-home solutions such as taping a coin over the hernia or using binders, but these methods are not recommended. They can cause irritation, infection, or even worsen the condition.⁵

5. Understand Surgical Options: Pediatric hernia repair is a surgical procedure performed under general anesthesia, with most children recovering quickly.⁶ Surgery may be required if the hernia:

• Persists beyond age 5 or causes complications.⁵
• Is painful and slightly larger than 1/4 to 3/4 inch in diameter.⁵
• Is large and doesn’t decrease in size by 2 years of age.⁵
• Becomes trapped or blocks the intestine.⁵
   

If you have concerns or notice changes in the hernia, trust your instincts and reach out to a doctor.

The guidance provided in this article follows general rules that should be discussed with your doctor. This article is for informational and educational purposes only. It does not substitute for medical advice. If in doubt, always consult your doctor.