Should I Fix my Umbilical Hernia Before Pregnancy or Wait to Repair It After Giving Birth?

Question

I am 37 years old. 2 years ago I was diagnosed with umbilical hernia on the 31 week of my last (third) pregnancy. My OB said she will try to repair it during my c-section but she was not able to reach out and do it from the c-section incision. Now I would like to get pregnant, should I fix the hernia first or should I go with pregnancy and birth then does the hernia repair???

Jeffrey E. Schreiber, MD, FACS · Answer

Even though this question is better suited for your OB/GYN and your general surgeon, I would recommend fixing the hernia after your childbirth as the condition may recur if you correct it beforehand.

Robert Frank, MD · Answer

There is a small risk of complications with any hernia (incarceration of small intestine for example) but a high likelihood of recurrence or worsening as you "expand" through your pregnancy. Given the choice, I'd wait if you're not having pain or other adverse symptoms.

Mokhtar Asaadi, MD, FACS · Answer

Hi there. I would recommended fixing your Umbilical Hernia after childbirth. It is important to discuss this with your OB and Surgeon as well.
Hope that helps!

Naveen Somia, MBBS, PhD, FRACS · Answer

Hello and thanks for sharing your question

	You should think about fixing your Umbilical Hernia after your childbirth. If you do so before you the repair may stretch due to the pregnancy and may affect the end result

	All the best

Should I Fix my Umbilical Hernia Before Pregnancy or Wait to Repair It After Giving Birth?

Answers (4)