After Umbilical Hernia Repair (Child)
Your child had a procedure called umbilical hernia repair. A hernia is a weakness or tear in the wall of the belly. An umbilical hernia looks like a bubble or bulge near your child’s bellybutton. Although many umbilical hernias close on their own, some need surgery. During your child’s surgery, the health care provider made a small incision and repaired the muscle. Here are some instructions to help you care for your child once at home.
Home care
Recommendations for home care include:
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Your child's dressing will stay in place for about 48 hours.
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Don't let your child’s dressing get wet. Give your child sponge baths to keep them clean.
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Don't allow your child to shower, take a bath, or get in a swimming pool or hot tub until the health care provider says it’s OK.
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Give your child pain medicines as directed by the provider. Pain tends to decrease or go away after 2 days.
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If your child gets constipated, talk with your child's provider. Pain medicines can be constipating. Increased fiber and a stool softener are often helpful.
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Try to keep your child calm and quiet for 3 to 4 days after surgery. This will help keep the incisions from opening. After that, your child can resume most normal activities, such as daycare or school, as directed by the provider.
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Don't let your child play rough sports until advised by your surgeon.
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Let your child eat or drink as desired.
When to call your child’s doctor
Call the health care provider right away if :
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Your child has a fever of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher, or as directed by your child's provider.
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Your child has shaking chills.
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Your child has vomiting or nausea that doesn’t go away.
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Your child has severe belly pain.
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Your child has trouble urinating.
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There is redness, swelling, warmth, or pain at the incision site.
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There is drainage, pus, or bleeding from the incision.
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The incision opens up or pulls apart.
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Your child does not have a bowel movement 3 days after surgery.
Online Medical Reviewer:
Dan Brennan MD
Online Medical Reviewer:
Heather M Trevino BSN RNC
Online Medical Reviewer:
Jen Lehrer MD
Date Last Reviewed:
1/1/2025
© 2000-2025 The StayWell Company, LLC. All rights reserved. This information is not intended as a substitute for professional medical care. Always follow your healthcare professional's instructions.