Question

I have been taking care of my baby since birth. Today is the tenth day after the baby was born, and the umbilical cord has fallen off. I noticed that after the umbilical cord fell off, the baby’s navel is protruding. I want to know how to deal with a newborn’s protruding navel. Is it normal?

Answer

An umbilical hernia is mainly caused by underdevelopment of the umbilical area abdominal wall, weakened abdominal wall muscle strength, or abdominal wall defects. Premature infants are more susceptible to it. Umbilical hernias can exist for a long time. They may suddenly occur when the child cries or has severe bowel movements. When a child has an umbilical hernia, parents should pay attention to the child’s reactions. If the child suddenly shows symptoms such as crying or discomfort, check the umbilical cord immediately. If the abnormal swelling of the umbilical cord cannot be eliminated in a short time, consider umbilical hernia restriction (i.e., anterior protrusion and subsequent compression of the intestine, which cannot return to the abdominal cavity) and go to the hospital for examination and treatment immediately. Wishing your baby good health.