Inguinal Hernia in Children
Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on May 4, 2025.
AMBULATORY CARE:
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).
Common signs and symptoms:
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
Seek care immediately if:
- 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 blood in his or her bowel movement.
- Your child has nausea and is vomiting.
- Your child cries more than usual or seems like he or she is in pain.
Call your child's doctor if:
- Your child has a fever.
- You have questions or concerns about your child's condition or care.
Treatment:
- 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.
Care for your child:
- 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.
Follow up with your child's doctor as directed:
Your child may need to see a surgeon to plan surgery. Write down your questions so you remember to ask them during your visits.
© Copyright Merative 2025 Information is for End User's use only and may not be sold, redistributed or otherwise used for commercial purposes.
The above information is an educational aid only. It is not intended as medical advice for individual conditions or treatments. Talk to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist before following any medical regimen to see if it is safe and effective for you.
Learn more about Inguinal Hernia
Treatment options
Care guides
Symptoms and treatments
Further information
Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.