Did Your Baby Have A Hernia?

By Janet Nsikan

What is a Hernia?
A hernia is a protrusion of an internal body part. Hernias often appear as lumps or bumps that may come and go because the internal organ, usually the intestine is pushing through a weak spot in the abdomen and making itself visible.
The most common hernias in infants and toddlers are umbilical and inguinal hernias. Umbilical hernias typically occur in younger babies and go away by baby’s first birthday while inguinal hernias occur in the groin area. They’re more common in boys than girls, and they typically require surgery.
Hernias are usually diagnosed based on a baby’s symptoms such as
● Soft bump
● Lump near their child’s belly button or where the torso meets the thigh.

Although a doctor may order an abdominal X-ray or ultrasound to learn more about a hernia, especially if a hernia is hard and unmovable.
In my case, my baby had an umbilical hernia; I noticed it when I first held her in the delivery room. I couldn’t help but worry. The paediatrician kept assuring us that it will go eventually, but it was hard seeing her cry from the discomfort. We were told she could only be considered for surgery when she is two years old, and the hernia is still present.
Here is what I did!

I opened my mind to believe that she will be fine, I stopped worrying so much about it, I spoke to other paediatricians and they all told me to relax. I also talked to other African mommies whose kids have gone through surgery for Hernia, and they assured me that it was very smooth. Well, she is two years old already, and it seems she won’t be needing surgery as the Hernia is gradually closing. Please share your experience and how Hernia is treated in your part of Africa.