Hernia and pregnancy
A hernia recognized during pregnancy is rare, approx. it affects one in a thousand expectant mothers. If it occurs and causes a more serious complaint, it can be operated on during pregnancy.
Only 3-6% of women develop an inguinal or femoral hernia during their lifetime, but the occurrence of emergency surgeries due to minor hernias is 20 times more frequent than in men, and even more frequent in the case of femoral hernias. Therefore, in the case of a recognized hernia in women, surgery is recommended rather than regular check-ups.
During pregnancy, the enlarged venous network protruding in the groin also often gives symptoms of a hernia. An ultrasound examination helps to assess this accurately.
In the case of a hernia, there is usually no obstacle to a natural birth. A caesarean section is mostly not necessary for the hernia, but for other factors. In almost half of the cases, a small inguinal hernia developed during pregnancy may even disappear after childbirth. Hernia surgery performed during caesarean section has also been described, but this can be classified as a feat rather than a routine procedure. In case of symptoms suggesting a hernia, it is worth attending a surgical examination already during pregnancy, so that it can be determined when it is necessary to treat the hernia. The safe conduct of childbirth and the decision on caesarean section are the duty and competence of obstetricians.
At our appointment, we are ready to help rule out a possible hernia and determine the need for further treatment.
What symptoms may raise the suspicion of a hernia during pregnancy?
Hernias formed during pregnancy cause protrusion and sensitivity. As the pregnancy progresses, the discomfort in the groin may increase, and the swelling may increase. Rarely, even in such cases, the hernia can be blocked, which requires urgent surgical intervention. If the swelling cannot be repositioned, and the pain increases significantly, you should definitely apply for a medical examination.