Posted by: Karen A. Diefenbach, MD on Sep 02, 2025


Noticing a bulge near your baby’s belly button? It may be an umbilical hernia: a common condition in infants that usually heals on its own. Learn what to watch for, when to call the doctor, and how surgery can help if the hernia doesn’t resolve.

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Pediatric News You Can Use From America’s Largest Pediatric Hospital and Research Center

700 Children’s® features the most current pediatric health care information and research from our pediatric experts – physicians and specialists who have seen it all. Many of them are parents and bring a special understanding to what our patients and families experience. If you have a child – or care for a child – 700 Children’s was created especially for you.

Latest Posts

Surgeon using robotics.

Robotic Surgery: Advancements in the Operating Room

Oct 25, 2021

Robotic-assisted, laparoscopic surgery can be used for many common operations, on kids of all ages and involves surgeons who are trained in pediatric urology and/or pediatric general and thoracic surgery. Nationwide Children’s currently has 11 surgeons certified to perform surgery using DaVinci. Read More

mother and daughter sitting on a couch

How to Keep a Child Still at Home While Recovering from Surgery

Jun 22, 2021

Recovering after surgery is an individualized experience. In many cases, it is important to keep your body still for safety and to promote continued coping throughout recovery. Read More

mother and daughter hugging

Emotionally Prepare Your Child for Surgery

Mar 31, 2021

It is important to prepare your child for their upcoming surgery in an age-appropriate and honest way while validating emotions such as uncertainty or nervousness. Read More

image of a smiling toddler boy

Hydronephrosis: A Defense Mechanism for the Kidneys

Oct 04, 2018

Hydronephrosis is a radiology term describing fluid buildup within the kidney. It is like a defense mechanism for the kidney when urine is slow to drain. Stretching of the kidney allows the backpressure of urine to be more evenly distributed. This may help to limit or slow down some of the potential damage to the kidney from urine backing up abnormally. Read More

Teenage girl walking through a field of grass.

Breast Reduction Surgery: When Is It Necessary for a Young Woman?

Mar 02, 2018

Breast size can be affected by weight fluctuations, so it is important to be at a stable, healthy weight for at least six months to one year prior to considering surgery. Read More

Surgeon with gloves holding a pair of scissors.

Anorectal Malformations: Surgery and Beyond

Feb 28, 2018

Anorectal Malformations (ARM) are rare defects present at birth in 1 in 5000 children. ARM are found in both boys and girls and while the primary malformation is anorectal, an ARM can also affect a child’s urological, gynecological, spinal, cardiac, airway and limb systems. Read More