A hernia occurs when an organ or tissue pushes through a weak spot in the muscle or surrounding tissue, creating a visible bulge. While hernias can happen at any time, pregnancy increases the risk due to the added pressure on the abdomen. Developing a hernia during pregnancy can be concerning, but with proper management and care, most cases do not pose significant risks to either the mother or the baby.
What do you need to do if you develop a hernia during pregnancy?
Here’s what to do if you suspect a hernia during pregnancy, as explained by Delhi’s leading laparoscopic and hernia surgeon, specialist Dr Amita Jain, in this blog.
Identify the Symptoms
The most common types of hernias during pregnancy are umbilical, inguinal, and incisional hernias. They often present as:
- A noticeable bulge or swelling in the abdomen, groin, or near the belly button.
- Pain or discomfort, especially when coughing, lifting, or standing for long periods.
- A feeling of heaviness or pressure in the abdomen.
It’s essential to consult your healthcare provider if you notice any unusual bulges or experience persistent pain.
Consult Your Doctor Immediately
If you suspect a hernia, consult your doctor right away. They will examine the affected area and may perform an ultrasound to confirm the diagnosis. Most hernias during pregnancy can be monitored and managed conservatively until after delivery. However, if the hernia becomes painful, and swollen, or causes nausea, vomiting, or constipation, this could indicate a strangulated hernia—a medical emergency where the blood supply to the trapped tissue is cut off. In this case, immediate surgical intervention may be required.
Focus on Conservative Management
For most pregnant women, hernia treatment involves non-surgical management throughout the pregnancy. The goal is to alleviate discomfort and prevent the hernia from worsening. Here are some tips for managing a hernia during pregnancy:
- Avoid heavy lifting: Lifting heavy objects can increase abdominal pressure, worsening the hernia. If possible, refrain from lifting anything heavy during your pregnancy.
- Wear a support belt: A maternity support belt or hernia truss can help reduce the strain on your abdomen, offering relief from the bulge and pain.
- Stay active but avoid straining: Gentle activities like walking or prenatal yoga can keep you active without putting excess pressure on your abdomen. Avoid exercises that strain the abdominal muscles, such as heavy lifting, crunches, or push-ups.
- Focus on proper posture: Maintaining good posture can reduce pressure on your hernia. Sit and stand up straight, and try to avoid slouching.
- Eat a fiber-rich diet: Constipation can worsen the hernia by increasing abdominal strain during bowel movements. A diet high in fiber, along with staying hydrated, can help prevent constipation.
Understand Surgical Options Post-Pregnancy
In most cases, doctors will advise postponing surgery for a hernia until after you have delivered your baby, especially if your symptoms are manageable. This is because pregnancy itself can exacerbate hernia symptoms, and the surgical repair might not hold until after delivery. Once you’ve given birth, your doctor will reassess your condition and recommend surgery if needed. Hernia repair surgery is usually straightforward and highly effective at preventing recurrence.
Know the Risks
While hernias during pregnancy are often manageable, they do come with risks, particularly if left untreated. A hernia can lead to complications like obstruction or strangulation of the bowel, which can cause severe pain and life-threatening issues. Always stay in close communication with your healthcare provider to monitor the hernia and act promptly if symptoms worsen.
Getting a hernia during pregnancy can be concerning, but with careful monitoring, proper lifestyle adjustments, and medical supervision, most women can carry their pregnancy safely to term. The key is to act early, consult with your doctor, and follow a plan that minimizes the risk of complications. Post-pregnancy, surgical options can effectively repair the hernia and restore abdominal health.
Dr Amita Jain is one of India’s most distinguished and experienced female surgeons, known for her unmatched expertise in general and laparoscopic surgery. With over 29 years of surgical excellence, Dr Amita Jain has built a reputation for precision, compassionate care, and advanced surgical techniques.
Dr Amita Jain has successfully performed a wide range of complex general surgeries, including both open and minimally invasive procedures, with a strong focus on trauma care, onco-surgical techniques, and reconstructive surgeries. Her areas of specialisation include (including Gallbladder stone removal, appendix removal, hernia repair surgery, piles and fissure surgeries). She was the Professor of Surgery at the Army College of Medical Sciences and Base Hospital, Delhi Cantt. In 1994, she was commissioned asa Surgeon under the United Nations Mission in Congo. From 2020 to 2022, she worked with Bansals Hospital. Currently, Dr Amita Jain is the Senior General and Laparoscopic Surgeon at Rainbow Children Hospitals (Malviya Nagar, Delhi), Artemis Lite: Multi-Speciality Care Hospital (New Friends Colony, New Delhi) and at Rosewalk – Luxury Maternity Hospital in Delhi (Panchsheel Park, Delhi)
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