Although most people don’t think of hernias as a health problem in children, hernias can occur in kids. In fact, hernia repair is one of the most common surgeries performed on children.

“Childhood hernias occur most frequently in newborns, although they may not become evident until years after birth,” said Dr. Steve Megison, chief of Trauma at Children’s and professor of Pediatric Surgery at UT Southwestern Medical Center.

Hernias occur when a section of the intestine pushes through a weakness in the abdominal muscles. There are two common types of hernias that occur in children, particularly in premature infants: umbilical hernia (near the belly button) and inguinal (near the groin). 

The most common symptom is a visible bulge in the groin or belly button. If you notice a bump in one of these areas, take him or her to your pediatrician. “The symptoms of a hernia resemble other medical conditions, so it is important for your pediatrician to diagnose the problem,” Dr. Megison said.

Your child’s doctor may be able to push the herniated tissue back into the abdominal cavity, meaning the hernia is reducible. If the hernia is not reducible, a loop of the intestine could become trapped in the weakened abdominal muscles, making the intestine unable to function properly.

Because many umbilical hernias close on their own, your doctor may take a wait-and-see approach to the treatment. However, if the umbilical hernia has not closed by the age of four, your doctor may recommend repairing it surgically. In 2007, Children’s performed more than 375 inguinal hernias and 125 umbilical hernias.

Inguinal hernias require surgery. During the operation, the surgeon puts the herniated tissue into its proper place and closes the opening that allowed the area to become herniated. Inguinal surgery is usually performed on an outpatient basis, meaning no overnight stay is required for older children. Small babies may need to spend the night.

Once a hernia is closed, either on its own or through surgery, it is unlikely that it will occur again.

Resources
Children's Medical Center: Hernia

Last reviewed: July 2008