If a hernia is causing discomfort during your pregnancy, it can usually be repaired in a surgical procedure with little risk to you or your pregnancy. And if your hernia develops a serious complication, emergency surgery will be necessary.
Can you carry a baby with a hernia?
Even with a hernia, a Caesarean section is not usually necessary. Almost all women can safely deliver a baby vaginally. Your obstetrician or midwife can help you throughout the delivery process to ensure the hernia does not become a problem.
Can a hernia affect the chances of getting pregnant?
In some females, there can be some herniation of the ovaries on both sides which can get twisted and thereby that can cause fertility issues in them. But by and large hernia is not associated with major fertility issues and this fear is mostly unfounded.
Should you fix a hernia before pregnancy?
The current literature recommends delaying elective repair until after the last pregnancy, because pregnancy following hernia repair increases the risk of recurrence 1.6-fold. Mesh repair has been associated with a decreased recurrence rate.
What happens if you have a hernia and get pregnant Related Questions
Can a hernia make you miscarry?
An incisional hernia or strangulation of the uterus is one of the severest complications of incisional hernia during pregnancy. These complications can cause miscarriage, preterm delivery, and intrauterine fetal death [3–7].
Can you have a safe pregnancy with an inguinal hernia?
(1) A hernia does not put your growing baby at risk. Because the fetus is growing in your uterus, it is not connected to the inguinal hernia area in your groin. Most women with inguinal hernias have a normal vaginal birth, however, with larger hernias you may be recommended to have a cesarean section birth.
Will a hernia go away during pregnancy?
Umbilical hernia repair during pregnancy can be performed with minimal morbidity to the mother and baby. Second trimester is a proper timing for surgery. Asymptomatic hernias can be repaired, following childbirth or at the time of cesarean section (C-section).
Should I push my hernia back in?
Most inguinal hernias can be pushed back into the belly with gentle massage and pressure. An inguinal hernia will not heal on its own. If you have symptoms, or the hernia is growing, you may need surgery.
Can you see a hernia in an ultrasound?
Hernias can be evaluated with ultrasound around the belly button (umbilicus), in the groin and pubic area. These exams are usually performed at rest (patient laying supine) as well as strained breath such as Valsalva maneuver to challenge the integrity of the surrounding tissues.
Should you repair inguinal hernia before pregnancy?
In pre-pregnancy patients, if the hernia is large and symptomatic, it may be better to do an elective repair and then wait for one or two years before the next pregnancy. However, if the hernia is small or minimally symptomatic, it may be better to hold the repair until after delivery or after the last pregnancy.
What can be mistaken for a hernia?
What else can be mistaken for a hernia? While a hernia is the cause for most people who experience lumps in their abdomen, there are several other possibilities such as a hematoma, lipoma, a gynecological issue in women, or an undescended testicle in newborn boys. In rare cases, a lump may indicate a tumor.
What does hernia pain feel like?
Typically, patients with ventral hernias describe mild pain, aching or a pressure sensation at the site of the hernia. The discomfort worsens with any activity that puts a strain on the abdomen, such as heavy lifting, running or bearing down during bowel movements. Some patients have a bulge but do not have discomfort.
When should I be worried about hernia pain?
Seek immediate care if a hernia bulge turns red, purple or dark or if you notice any other signs or symptoms of a strangulated hernia. See your doctor if you have a painful or noticeable bulge in your groin on either side of your pubic bone.
How long can a hernia be left untreated?
If this condition is left untreated longer than 6 hours, incarcerated hernia can cut off blood flow to part of the intestine, resulting in strangulated hernia.
How do you get rid of a hernia without surgery?
Wear hernia belts. While coughing or straining, hold the hernia. Take light walks. Avoid foods that cause inflammation. Exercises to strengthen the Abdomen. Maintain a healthy weight. Apply some ice. Take a fiber-rich diet.
How long can you let a hernia go?
Hernias don’t go away on their own. Only surgery can repair a hernia. Many people are able to delay surgery for months or even years. And some people may never need surgery for a small hernia.
Can Obgyn diagnose hernia?
Hernias have a wide range of causes, and any abdominal pain warrants a visit to OBGYN Care for an examination. Hernias are typically easy to diagnose and treat, but they can also become dangerous when ignored.
How do they check a woman for a hernia?
Your doctor will check for a bulge in the groin area. Because standing and coughing can make a hernia more prominent, you’ll likely be asked to stand and cough or strain. If the diagnosis isn’t readily apparent, your doctor might order an imaging test, such as an abdominal ultrasound, CT scan or MRI.
How do doctors confirm a hernia?
A hernia diagnosis is typically based on your history of symptoms, a physical exam, and possibly imaging tests. During your exam, your doctor will typically feel around your groin and testicles, and ask you to cough. This is done because standing and coughing or straining usually make a hernia more prominent.
What to avoid while waiting for hernia surgery?
Tips to relieve hernia pain temporarily before treatment: Here are some tips we recommend: Avoid lifting heavy objects and other strenuous exercises or activities. These activities may result in increased pressure and strain that could worsen your hernia.