After birth, the umbilical cord is no longer necessary, and the opening in the abdominal muscles closes as the baby matures. Sometimes, these muscles do not meet completely, leaving a small hole or gap. A loop of intestine can move into and even penetrate the opening between abdominal muscles and cause a hernia.
Umbilical hernias occur most often in infants but can also occur in adults. The most common causes of umbilical hernias in adults are:
Chronic health conditions that raise abdominal pressure, including:
Carrying excessive belly fluid (ascites)
Chronic cough
Difficulty urinating due to an enlarged prostate
Prolonged constipation
Repetitive vomiting
Straining such as during child birth or weight lifting