Hernia specialists stated that pregnant women have higher chances of getting umbilical hernia affecting the naval area because of the increased pressure during pregnancy on the abdomen. Even if you get hernia during pregnancy, there are different factors based on which your doctor will determine whether you should go for surgery before delivery or wait for it. 

Factors increasing the risk of hernia by a hernia specialist 

One of the best hernia surgeons in Kolkata stated that there are certain factors which increase the risk of hernia when you are pregnant.

  • Sudden weight gain
  • Multiple pregnancies before 
  • Chronic constipation 
  • Lifting heavy objects 
  • Family history of hernia 
  • Fluid in the abdomen 
  • Constant sneezing and coughing 

In most cases, hernia is asymptomatic and is only found when a hernia doctor examines the affected area. But in many women, hernia develops as a bulge near the belly button, which causes sharp pain while walking, bending, coughing and laughing. 

Hernia treatment during pregnancy: Explains hernia specialist 

There is no solid medical evidence about the best time for hernia treatment. Treatment depends upon the condition of the hernia.  If your umbilical hernia is mild and is not causing any pain, doctor might recommend surgery post-delivery. However, if your hernia has become large and is causing complications like becoming trapped and damaging the intestinal wall, you need an emergency laparoscopic hernia surgery while still being pregnant. 

The following treatments may also be suggested by a hernia specialist in case if there is an absence of emergency.  

Hernia Repair during a C-Section: The doctors follow this procedure when the hernia is not severe, and the patient is planning to have a C-section delivery. Hernia surgery during C-section is not time-consuming and can be operated on easilyMoreover, if a steel mesh is used during the surgical procedure, the chances of reoccurrence are negligible. 

Elective Repair during Pregnancy: Some hernia surgeons recommend surgery during the first and second trimesters. Surgery during pregnancy is completely safe with no pregnancy losses. During this operation, a suture is used, allowing flexibility in the abdominal wall and causing no pain.

Conclusion Hernia during pregnancy is common, especially umbilical hernia. Umbilical hernia repair is a safe procedure with minimal morbidity to the mother and no pregnancy loss, even in emergency cases. The risk of surgery is also very low unless the patient has some serious underlying medical issues.