Question
When does a newborn umbilical hernia typically appear? It’s said that when the baby is active, the umbilical area becomes particularly prominent. Does this mean the baby has an umbilical hernia?
Answer
A newborn’s umbilical hernia usually appears about one month after birth. This is due to the incomplete development of the umbilical area, which makes the surrounding fascia relatively weak, allowing abdominal organs to easily protrude through this weak spot, forming a visible bulge. In most cases, the baby’s umbilical hernia will heal naturally within one year. However, if it has not healed by the age of two, surgical treatment may need to be considered.