A hernia is a condition where tissue, typically intestines or fat, can project through a defect or weakness of the abdominal wall and cause a bulge. In babies, hernias usually develop when openings in the abdominal wall do not close, allowing the intestines or other organs to push through the openings. These openings are normal in babies and typically close before or right after birth. Hernias in babies and children can develop soon after birth or years later during childhood. The following are the types of hernias that can occur in babies:

• Inguinal hernia: This is when a loop of intestine moves into the inguinal canal through a weak spot in the belly wall. The inguinal canal is an area that goes from the abdomen to the genitals. In boys, this canal lets the testicles move from the belly to the scrotum. Normally, a baby’s inguinal canal closes shortly before or after birth, but in some cases, the canal doesn’t fully close, leading to an inguinal hernia.

• Umbilical hernia: This is when a loop of intestine moves into the opening between the belly muscles. During pregnancy, the umbilical cord passes through a small opening in the babys abdominal muscles. The opening normally closes just after birth, but if the muscles dont join together completely in the midline of the abdominal wall, an umbilical hernia may appear at birth or later in life.

Symptoms of a hernia in a baby may include a lump or swelling near the groin or belly button, pain or tenderness around the groin or lower belly, unexplained crying or fussiness, and vomiting. Hernias are most common in newborn babies and premature babies[[1]](https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/conditions-and-diseases/hernia...