Umbilical hernia

An umbilical hernia forms when part of your small intestine pushes through a weak spot in the muscular wall of your stomach. It causes a bulge on or near your belly button. This type of hernia is common among babies and young children, but it can also develop in adults. A belly button hernia can go away by age five, but some children and most adults need surgery to repair it.

Ranked among the top in the nation for hernia care, Penn Medicine’s specialists are experienced at both simple and complex hernia surgeries, using less invasive techniques whenever possible. With convenient locations across Pennsylvania and New Jersey, we support you through every step, from your initial evaluation through surgery and recovery.

An umbilical hernia causes a soft bulge by the belly button (navel) that may be there all the time or only when you’re straining. In babies, an umbilical hernia may be visible when they cry. For adults, the bulge may be more noticeable when lifting a heavy object. Umbilical hernias are usually painless in children, but they can cause discomfort or a feeling of pressure in adults.

Talk to your doctor about symptoms that require emergency medical care for a belly button hernia, like vomiting, pain, bloody stools, or skin discoloration around the bulge. These may be signs of a complication.

Penn Medicine’s specialists have the expertise to perform open and minimally invasive procedures, including techniques that use smaller incisions and robotic technology. We also help with recovery and provide rehabilitation when needed, so that you have the support you need as you heal.