A nutrition dietitian, child care specialist, homeopathic pharmacist, and trained yoga teacher—nominated for the Padma Bhushan National Award and honoured by the Punjab Government—has raised awareness about umbilical hernia symptoms in women, stating that the condition is often ignored or misdiagnosed in its early stages.
According to the expert, one of the most common signs of an umbilical hernia is a soft swelling or bulge near the navel. This swelling may become more noticeable while standing, coughing, lifting heavy objects, or applying pressure on the abdomen.
Common Symptoms of Umbilical Hernia in Women
- Soft bulge or swelling near the navel
- Abdominal discomfort, mild pain, or pressure
- Pain while coughing, bending, or lifting weight
- Feeling of heaviness in the abdomen, lower back, or thighs
- Burning or stinging sensation around the affected area
She explained that in adults, the condition may cause persistent abdominal discomfort or mild pain, which can worsen during physical activity.
Serious Warning Signs
In rare cases, intestines may become trapped inside the hernia, causing the swelling to turn hard, red, or painful. This is considered a medical emergency and requires immediate treatment.
Causes of Umbilical Hernia in Women
- Pregnancy: Increased pressure on abdominal muscles during pregnancy can weaken tissues and lead to hernia development.
- Excess abdominal pressure: Heavy lifting or repeated strain on abdominal muscles increases the risk.
- Muscle weakness: Weak abdominal walls make women more vulnerable to hernias.
The expert added that hernia symptoms in women are often subtle compared to men. Many women experience internal discomfort without a clearly visible bulge, which leads to confusion with gynecological issues or general body pain, delaying diagnosis.
Additional Symptoms Women May Experience
- Lower abdominal swelling
- Nausea or vomiting
- Constipation or gas problems
- Pelvic or hip heaviness
- Mild internal swelling without visible protrusion
She advised women to seek medical consultation if persistent abdominal pain, swelling, or unusual discomfort is noticed, as early diagnosis can prevent complications.
