Inguinal Hernia in Children
Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Apr 6, 2025.
What is an inguinal hernia?
An inguinal hernia happens when abdominal organs or tissue push through a weak spot in your child's abdominal wall. The abdominal wall is made of fat and muscle. It holds the intestines in place. The hernia may contain fluid, tissue from the abdomen, or part of an organ (such as an intestine).
What causes inguinal hernias in children?
Inguinal hernias are more common in premature infants. The following may increase your child's risk for an inguinal hernia:
- A family history of an inguinal hernia
- Health conditions such as cystic fibrosis or an undescended testicle
- An opening in the abdominal wall that does not close at birth
- A weak area in the abdominal wall
What are the signs and symptoms of an inguinal hernia?
Inguinal hernias usually do not cause pain. The hernia may disappear when your child lies flat or relaxes. Your child may also have any of the following:
- A bulge or lump in his or her groin, lower abdomen, labia (outer skin flaps of the female genitals) or scrotum
- A bulge that gets bigger when he or she cries, coughs, or strains to have a bowel movement
- Irritability or poor feeding
How is an inguinal hernia diagnosed?
Your child's healthcare provider will examine your child's abdomen and groin for bumps. Your child may need an ultrasound, CT, or MRI. These tests may show the tissue or organ that is contained within the hernia. It may also show reduced blood flow to the organs, a blockage, or a hole in the intestines. Your child may be given contrast liquid to help the organs show up better in the pictures. Tell the healthcare provider if your child has ever had an allergic reaction to contrast liquid. Do not let your child enter the MRI room with anything metal. Metal can cause serious injury. Tell the healthcare provider if your child has any metal in or on his or her body.
How is an inguinal hernia treated?
- Manual reduction of your child's hernia may be done. Manual reduction means your child's healthcare provider will use hands to put firm, steady pressure on your child's hernia. The provider will continue to apply pressure until the hernia disappears inside the abdominal wall. This procedure may help reduce the hernia while your child waits to have surgery.
- Surgery is usually done to place the hernia back inside your child's abdominal wall. Surgery may be needed immediately if your child's hernia stops blood flow to the intestines. It may also be done immediately if the hernia causes a hole in your child's intestines or prevents bowel movements.
- Medicines such acetaminophen or NSAIDs may help reduce swelling and pain.
How can I manage my child's symptoms?
- Give your child foods high in fiber. Fiber may prevent constipation and straining during a bowel movement. Foods that contain fiber include fruits, vegetables, beans, lentils, and whole grains.
- Do not place pressure on your child's hernia. Do not push on the hernia or place tape or a coin over it.
- Give your child liquids as directed. Liquids may prevent constipation and straining during a bowel movement. Ask how much liquid to give your child each day and which liquids are best for him or her.
When should I seek immediate care?
- Your child's hernia gets bigger, is firm, or is blue or purple.
- Your child's abdomen seems larger, rounder, or more full than usual.
- Your child has severe abdominal pain.
- Your child cannot have a bowel movement or pass gas.
- Your child has nausea and is vomiting.
- Your child has blood in his or her bowel movement.
- Your child cries more than usual or seems like he or she is in pain.
When should I call my child's doctor?
- Your child has a fever.
- You have questions or concerns about your child's condition or care.
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