What is Umbilical Hernia?
An umbilical hernia is a condition that occurs when the abdominal muscles close properly around the umbilical ring. Swelling may occur near the belly button or navel. It is common in children. These may occur depending on the baby’s ability to heal when the umbilical cord falls off. It is noteworthy that there is no correlation between the shape of the navel button and placental abruption. Sometimes an umbilical hernia can be caused by an umbilical button, such as an umbilical granuloma. About 10% of newborns develop external belly buttons. This causes the skin to stick out and give a knot-like appearance.
Umbilical hernia in children
A condition in which a portion of the intestine or fatty tissue in a newborn baby bulges through a weak spot near the belly button. It may resemble a herniated disc. This is best seen when the baby cries or coughs. This umbilical hernia usually closes on its own by the time the baby is 12 to 18 months old. However, if the child feels pain when touching this place, it is necessary to consult a doctor.
Umbilical granuloma
An umbilical granuloma is a small moist red lump. It forms at the baby’s belly button after the umbilical cord falls off. It is a benign growth of scar tissue. When these appear in the newborn, they resolve spontaneously after a week or so with simple treatment. But if these continue to cause problems, consult a doctor.
Does the belly button go in if it’s on the outside?
All parents have this doubt. When the baby’s belly button is on the outside, there is doubt as to how it will go in. Many people have questions about how to prevent this. But every belly button is unique. Not all are the same. In most cases, the belly button does not turn inward as the baby grows. It does not require treatment. They also tend to resolve on their own during the first few years of a child’s life. No effort should be made to get the baby’s navel in the right shape. This will only cause discomfort to the child.
How to care for baby’s umbilical cord?
- Learn how to care for the baby’s umbilical cord if it falls off and the belly button is knotted outwards or inwards.
- The area should be gently cleaned while bathing the newborn. Water can be used.
- Keep the belly button area clean until the umbilical cord falls off and heals without soreness. This may take a few days or a few weeks.
- After the umbilical cord falls, the baby can be cleaned and kept dry to prevent infection. Check to see if there is any bleeding.
- Bleeding as the umbilical cord falls off is normal.
- If the bleeding continues after the umbilical cord falls off, if there is yellow discharge, if there is a bad smell, and if there are signs of infection such as swelling around the belly button, you should consult a doctor for treatment.
