What is an umbilical hernia
An umbilical hernia is an opening or weakness in the muscle under the umbilicus or belly button. It is caused by incomplete closure of the umbilical ring, the place where the umbilical cord is attached, after birth. Approximately 20% of full term newborns will have this problem. Umbilical hernias are much more common in premature infants.
An umbilical hernia is an abnormal bulge that can be seen or felt at the umbilicus (belly button). This hernia develops when a portion of the lining of the abdomen, part of the intestine, and/or fluid from the abdomen, comes through the muscle of the abdominal wall. Umbilical hernias are common, occurring in 10% to 20% of all children. They are, however, more common in African Americans. Low birth weight and premature infants are also more likely to have an umbilical hernia. Boys and girls are equally affected.
