Term gravid uterus in a congenital umbilical hernia: a case report

BACKGROUND: Umbilical hernias are a frequent and well-known pathology in children or adults. Congenital umbilical hernias are commonly diagnosed in childhood, and in adulthood such a hernia is usually acquired. Umbilical hernia in pregnancy may result in serious obstetric complications including antepartum hemorrhage, intrauterine fetal demise, and preterm labor, particularly if incarcerated. CASE PRESENTATION: We present a rare case of a congenital umbilical hernia in a term pregnancy. The patient was a 34-year-old African (Malawian) woman, living with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and on antiretroviral treatment, gravida 4, with three previous vaginal deliveries, and with two babies weighing 4 kg at birth. We performed herniorrhaphy at caesarean section, and at 3 months of follow-up she had no evidence of a recurrent hernia. CONCLUSION: Congenital umbilical hernias are commonly diagnosed in childhood but might first be seen by medical practitioners in adulthood. A patient-centered approach addressing patient complaints, associated risk factors, and possible complications is recommended. Primary repair at caesarean section is a feasible option.