Umbilical hernia in pregnancy

Umbilical hernia in pregnancy- causes

An umbilical hernia is the displacement of contents, in this case the abdominal cavity, through a pathological opening in the shell. It arises due to the weakening of the tissues that build the anterior abdominal wall. It is worth noting that pregnancy is a condition that predisposes to the occurrence of this very ailment. This is primarily related to the increasing pressure in the abdominal cavity due to the growing uterus. This leads to pressure on the abdominal wall and, consequently, the distention of the abdominal shells. Hormones such as relaxin, for example, also play a not insignificant role, further relaxing the ligaments, making it easier for the abdominal shells to separate.  

Umbilical hernia in pregnancy- symptoms

An umbilical hernia manifests itself as a bulge in the abdominal lining, which may contain fatty tissue, or organs, such as the intestine, for example. It is usually painless, but there are situations in which pain may occur. It is worth paying attention to them, as they can indicate an immediate threat to the health or even life of a woman. If you experience symptoms such as nausea and vomiting, gas and stool retention, and severe abdominal pain, it is necessary to go to a hospital emergency room as soon as possible, as these may be symptoms of an incarcerated hernia. It occurs when there is a fragment of intestine in the hernia sac. In most situations, its presence alone is not dangerous, but sometimes the passage can become ischemic, followed by necrosis and obstruction of the gastrointestinal tract.

Umbilical hernia in pregnancy- management

In most cases, an umbilical hernia remains asymptomatic and does not require intervention. The surgery, , which is the method of choice for treating hernias, is usually performed as an elective procedure after the pregnancy has already ended. In most cases, a procedure is performed, during which, under general anesthesia, the abdominal shells are opened, the contents of the hernia are drained into the abdominal cavity, and a special mesh is sewn in place of the hole through which the hernia protrudes. It is designed to prevent a recurrence of the ailment. It is a relatively simple and short procedure. In the case of the previously mentioned obstruction due to hernia entrapment, an ostrodysurgery is necessary, and the extent of the operation itself depends on the degree of organ ischemia and may include excision of the necrotic gastrointestinal tract.

Umbilical hernia after pregnancy

Surgery for an umbilical hernia formed during pregnancy usually occurs after about. 3-6 months after delivery. Of course, each patient’s situation is considered individually, so the time period may vary. However, an umbilical hernia can also occur during the postpartum period, as well as at any time after pregnancy. It is worth noting that a history of pregnancy can  weaken the muscle sheaths quite significantly and promote the formation of this type of hernia even after childbirth. However, the symptoms accompanying it as well as the management are the same as for the duration of pregnancy.