Newborns can sometimes experience physical issues after birth, including the development of hydroceles and hernias. These conditions are not usually serious, but they can cause severe effects in some cases. And with inguinal hernias, surgical intervention is likely.
Hydroceles involve an accumulation of fluid around the testicles. In newborns, the condition causes inflammation, which often resolves as the child grows and develops. Conversely, an inguinal hernia occurs when a part of the bowel extrudes from a gap between the abdomen and testicles.
Not all hydroceles require treatment, and when they do, doctors can perform a drainage procedure to remove excess fluid. Inguinal hernias may require treatment despite their severity, and these procedures involve repositioning the protruding bowel and closing the gap between the abdomen and testicles.
Hernias can sometimes be a medical emergency, in which case your child will require immediate assistance. With more serious hernias, the protrusion may feel stiff and hard and resist being pushed back into place. The child may also exhibit pronounced discomfort, excessive crying, vomiting, and gastrointestinal issues (i.e., diarrhea and/or constipation).
Because hydroceles result from how the testicles develop in baby boys, infant girls will not experience this condition. However, baby girls can develop hernias, though the condition is much rarer in females than males.
You cannot stop a hydrocele from forming in babies. In older boys, injury protection can significantly reduce one’s risk. When it comes to sports, boys should always wear an athletic cup to safeguard the testicles and scrotum against injuries. Inguinal hernias cannot be prevented, but close monitoring and follow-up with a pediatrician can prevent the medical issue from becoming worse.