Pregnancy and hernias

Pregnancy is a known risk factor for the development of abdominal wall hernias and also for the recurrence of a hernia after it has already been operated on. During pregnancy, certain hormones (e.g. progesterone) cause the connective tissue to become very soft. This allows the abdominal wall to stretch elastically, creating space for the growing baby in the womb. However, this also increases the risk that the classic weak points of the abdominal wall for the development of a hernia (mainly the belly button, less frequently the groin) will give way during pregnancy and a hernia will develop. Hernias that were already present before pregnancy can become larger during pregnancy.

Surgery for a hernia during pregnancy is almost never necessary. As long as the hernia does not cause severe discomfort, the birth can be awaited in peace. The often feared “incarceration” of the hernia during pregnancy is just as rare as in non-pregnant women. In fact, as the baby grows in the womb, the uterus moves in front of the hernia opening in the abdominal wall and incarceration, e.g. of the bowel, becomes increasingly unlikely. After delivery, the hernia should be operated on after the 12-month recovery period at the earliest, and only if it is causing discomfort and family planning is definitely complete. 

The question often arises as to whether a previous hernia operation poses a risk to pregnancy. This can be clearly answered in the negative. Studies show that pregnancies are completely undisturbed even after major hernia operations with implanted plastic mesh. The mesh is able to stretch the abdominal wall without any problems. In some cases, there may be slight pulling pain in the abdominal wall in the last few weeks. 

In any case, you should seek professional advice from us or other hernia specialists if you have a hernia during pregnancy.
Appointment