Infant umbilical hernia: causes and symptoms 2026

When the baby or child has a lump around the belly button it may be possible that they have an umbilical hernia. In the particular case of the baby, especially if it is a newborn, before the umbilical cord ends up falling off, you may notice that the area seems to protrude a little more, especially when it cries. Or even once the cord has fallen off, you notice that your belly button sticks out. It may also happen that, in some cases, even if that lump is not visible, you can feel it.

The truth is that umbilical hernias tend to be more common in babies and young children. In fact, many umbilical hernias usually close on their own at approximately 3 or 4 years of age.

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What is an umbilical hernia and what are its causes?

A hernia is a small opening present in the abdominal wall. So, when there is a hernia, the abdominal organs protrude through the hole present in the abdominal wall, near the navel.

During pregnancy, the umbilical cord is connected to the baby's abdominal muscles through a small hole. This hole usually closes after birth, just a few days later.

However, when this does not occur, the gap that remains is what is medically known as an umbilical hernia. So, if the intestines and fluid pass through it, they end up causing the baby's abdomen to swell.

When there is an umbilical hernia, it means that the small intestine protrudes (protrudes) through the hernia or opening, which is why it tends to become much more evident when the child strains during defecation or coughs.

The reality is that many infants have a small umbilical hernia. This is something absolutely common and normal, and it is because the small opening or gap through which the different blood vessels of the umbilical cord pass have not completely closed.

Fortunately, umbilical hernias usually close on their own without virtually any type of medical treatment.

What symptoms does it produce?

It is common for parents to notice a kind of “bulge” in their child's navel. Especially when the child cries or makes some kind of effort, it is common for this lump to enlarge and become harder.

This is because the pressure in the abdomen increases, forcing the contents of the hernia to be expelled to the outside. In this way, once the child relaxes, its contents easily return to the abdomen, allowing it to become soft again.

In any case, in most cases children do not usually present symptoms. Hence, if the hole is large, the pediatrician recommends waiting until the child is 4 or 5 years old, to wait to see whether or not the hole ends up closing completely.

How is umbilical hernia treated?

Most umbilical hernias do not need any type of medical treatment. In fact, usually the opening or gap tends to heal on its own by the time the child is 4 or 5 years old. But if this doesn't happen, it may end up getting smaller. However, surgery may be necessary. And if the hole is actually large, the pediatrician may recommend surgery before the child turns 4 or 5 years old.

The procedure is performed in a hospital. It usually takes on average about 45 minutes, and the child will receive general anesthesia to prevent him from being awake during the surgery. When this is done, the surgeon makes a small cut just below the navel. If any part of the intestine breaks through, it will put it back where it belongs.

The specialist will apply stitches in order to close the hernia, and will also sew the skin below the navel. Finally, he or she will seal the cut with a type of surgical glue, which will help hold the edges of the wound together. This type of “glue” has the advantage that it will end up disappearing on its own when the wound heals and heals.

After the procedure, the child will remain in the hospital while recovering from anesthesia. And, in many cases, you can return home just a few hours later.