Newborn Hernias

Most people consider hernias to be injuries that only affect older children and adults. However, new parents should be aware that their baby can develop a hernia as well. A hernia occurs when the muscles surrounding the abdomen weaken, causing a loop of intestine to escape its normal wall of protection.

There are two types of hernias commonly seen in newborns: umbilical and inguinal.

Umbilical Hernias

There is a naturally occurring hole in the abdominal muscles of a fetus where the umbilical cord connects the baby to its mother. Normally, after birth, the hole will close itself up, leaving just the small belly button where the cord once attached. However, sometimes the weakness remains and a bit of intestine will escape. Parents may observe a small bulge around the belly button, denoting an umbilical hernia.

Inguinal Hernias

Inguinal hernias are more common in baby boys due to the way they form. In a male fetus, the testicles are formed in the abdomen before sliding down a tube, called the inguinal canal, into the scrotum. After birth, the inguinal canal should close on its own. However, if the inguinal canal is weak or not completely closed, a loop of intestine can form a hernia in the groin area.

Females too have an inguinal canal and as such, they can also develop inguinal hernias, though they are less common.

Treatment for Hernias

Inguinal hernias often necessitate surgery so that the intestine is not pinched off, losing its blood supply. However, umbilical hernias typically heal on their own. Sometimes, if an umbilical hernia grows or does not disappear on its own, it might need surgery as well.

Contact Us

If a hernia results in the blood supply being cut off from the intestines, it can result in a serious medical emergency. If you feel that your doctor has not properly handled your newborn’s hernia or has caused any other type of birth injury, contact the Philadelphia birth injury lawyers of Lowenthal & Abrams, P.C. today at 215-238-1130.