Understanding Umbilical Hernias

An umbilical hernia occurs when fat or part of the intestine pushes through a weak area near the navel (umbilicus). These hernias can develop at birth due to an opening in the abdominal muscles that doesn’t fully close or later in life due to increased abdominal pressure.

While umbilical hernias in adults are often caused by obesity, pregnancy, or past surgeries, they can also occur without a clear reason. Some remain small and painless, while larger ones may require surgical repair to prevent complications like strangulation, where the hernia becomes trapped and cuts off blood flow.

Symptoms of an Umbilical Hernia

While some small umbilical hernias cause no symptoms, larger hernias can lead to:

• A bulge near the belly button, which is more noticeable when standing, coughing, or straining
• Pain or discomfort, especially during physical activity
• Tenderness or pressure around the hernia site
• Changes in bowel habits, such as nausea, constipation, or bloating in more severe cases
• Redness or swelling, which may indicate a trapped or strangulated hernia, requiring emergency care

What Causes an Umbilical Hernia?

Umbilical hernias develop when weakness in the abdominal wall allows tissue to push through. Some people are born with this weakness, while others develop it over time due to:

• Increased abdominal pressure from obesity, pregnancy, heavy lifting, or frequent straining (such as from constipation)
• Aging, as the abdominal muscles naturally weaken over time
• Past surgeries or injuries, which can create weak points near the belly button
• Chronic coughing, which increases strain on the abdominal wall

While these factors raise the risk, umbilical hernias can sometimes develop without a clear cause.

Treatment Options for an Umbilical Hernia

Surgical Repair
Surgery is the most effective treatment for an umbilical hernia, especially if it is large, growing, or causing discomfort. The type of umbilical hernia surgery recommended depends on the size of the hernia, overall health, and risk of complications.

Open Hernia Repair
This traditional surgical approach involves making an incision over the hernia, repositioning the tissue, and reinforcing the abdominal wall. Sutures or surgical mesh may be used to reduce the risk of recurrence.

Laparoscopic Hernia Repair
This minimally invasive option uses small incisions and a tiny camera to guide the repair. This approach is often preferred for larger hernias and may involve placing a mesh to strengthen the abdominal wall.

Robotic-Assisted Hernia Repair
This highly precise, minimally invasive technique involves a surgeon operating robotic instruments from a console. This option provides enhanced control and faster recovery and may be recommended for more complex or recurrent hernias.

Non-Surgical Options
While surgery is the only way to repair an umbilical hernia, some small, painless hernias may be monitored. Supportive treatments include:

• Watchful waiting, which involves monitoring a small umbilical hernia that isn’t causing symptoms
• Lifestyle adjustments, such as maintaining a healthy weight and avoiding heavy lifting to reduce strain
• Abdominal binders, which can temporarily provide support but do not fix the hernia

Most hernias eventually require surgery, as they do not heal on their own.