Pregnancy-Related Umbilical Hernias: Easy, but Important, to Treat

5/4/2026

TUCSON, AZ – May is Women’s Health Month – a great time for women of all ages and stages in life to focus on self-care and wellness.

Some health conditions, including umbilical (or “navel”) hernias, are more common in women, and occur when part of the intestine or fatty tissue push through an opening in the stomach muscles right underneath the belly button.

“Pregnancy can contribute to development of an umbilical hernia, and we frequently see women with umbilical hernias after pregnancy,” says General Surgeon Seda Bourikian, M.D., who practices at Northwest General Surgery at Tucson and is certified as a Master Surgeon by the Surgical Review Corporation. “As the uterus expands, it places increasing pressure on the abdominal wall, which can weaken the area around the belly button and contribute to formation of an umbilical hernia.”

Some women first notice a bulge during pregnancy, while others notice it postpartum when swelling has improved and the bulge becomes more apparent.

Common symptoms include a visible or palpable bulge at or near the umbilicus; discomfort; pressure; or pain that may worsen with lifting, straining, coughing or activity. Small hernias may be minimally symptomatic, while larger hernias can become more bothersome over time – or even cause serious complications.

“In many cases, evaluation and repair are best considered after delivery, once the body has had some time to recover,” says Dr. Bourikian. “Women should seek evaluation if they notice a persistent bulge, pain, increasing size, or symptoms that interfere with daily activity. Urgent evaluation is important if there is severe pain, nausea/vomiting, skin color change over the bulge or if the hernia becomes firm and cannot be reduced.”

Treatment depends on symptoms, exam findings and future pregnancy plans. Not every hernia requires immediate repair, but symptomatic hernias should be assessed by a surgeon, who can repair them using minimally invasive or robotic techniques.

To learn more about general surgery at Northwest Healthcare, including minimally-invasive options, visit https://www.healthiertucson.com/surgery-services.

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