What to Do if You Get a Hernia During Pregnancy

Doctors typically diagnose a hernia during pregnancy through a symptom history and physical exam. In many cases, a healthcare provider can identify a hernia based on its characteristic bulge and tenderness.

Physical Examination

The first step in diagnosing a hernia during pregnancy is usually a physical exam. During this exam, your healthcare provider will touch your abdomen to feel for any bulging or tenderness, especially near the belly button or groin.

You may need to change positions for your provider to see and feel your hernia. A basic physical exam is often sufficient to diagnose a hernia, particularly if you have symptoms such as pain or pressure in the area.

Ultrasound

If the physical exam doesn’t provide enough information or your doctor can’t easily see or feel the hernia, the next step is typically an ultrasound. This noninvasive imaging test can provide clear visuals of the abdominal area.

This allows your healthcare provider to see if there’s any protruding tissue and to confirm the location and size of the hernia. Ultrasound is safe during pregnancy and is the preferred imaging technique for assessing hernias.

CT Scan

In rare cases, if your doctor suspects complications, they might recommend a computerized tomography (CT) scan. A CT scan uses X-rays to produce 2D cross-sectional images of the body’s soft tissues, bones, and blood vessels. Medical personnel can then “stack” these images to produce 3D models of specific body parts.

However, doctors usually avoid these tests during pregnancy unless necessary, as they expose the mother to radiation. Doctor typically only order CT scans when other diagnostic approaches are inconclusive.

MRI

if the hernia is difficult to assess with other methods, your doctor might recommend a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). An MRI uses radio waves and powerful magnets to create detailed images of areas of the body.

By combining the methods above, a healthcare provider can accurately diagnose a hernia and determine the best course of action for treatment, if necessary.