Have you noticed a soft bulge or lump in your child’s lower abdomen or groin area that becomes more visible when they cry and disappears when they are lying down or calm? This is often a sign of inguinal hernia in children.
Inguinal hernia is a common condition that can affect infants and children. If not treated promptly, it may lead to serious complications such as intestinal obstruction or loss of blood supply to tissues.
In this article, we’ll cover in detail the causes of inguinal hernia in children, symptoms to watch for, available treatment options, and when surgery becomes necessary to ensure your child’s safety.
We’ll also answer the most common questions parents ask, such as:
The story of inguinal hernia begins during fetal development. In male babies, the testicles first develop inside the abdomen and then gradually move through a small passage called the inguinal canal into the scrotum. This canal also exists in females.
However, any bulge or signs of pain should never be ignored. Seek medical attention immediately or visit the emergency room.
If left untreated, inguinal hernia can lead to serious complications such as bowel incarceration or strangulation, which is why surgery is the best solution to protect your child’s health.
Inguinal hernia can occur at any age but is most common in newborns. It may not be noticeable for several weeks or months after birth.
Typical signs include:
Most cases are diagnosed through a physical examination, where the doctor observes the bulge that appears during crying or straining and disappears when relaxed.
If the bulge is persistent or the doctor suspects a mass rather than a hernia, an ultrasound may be recommended. However, imaging is not always necessary.
If the bulge remains even when the child is relaxed, it may indicate that part of the intestine or abdominal organs is trapped inside the hernia.
This is called an incarcerated hernia and requires urgent medical attention.
Symptoms include:
If blood supply to the trapped tissue is cut off, the condition becomes more critical, known as strangulated hernia.
Symptoms include:
This is a medical emergency requiring immediate surgery.
Surgery is the only effective treatment for inguinal hernia in children.
The procedure usually takes less than an hour and is considered a day of surgery, meaning your child can go home the same day unless they are premature or have other health conditions.
Our Pediatric Surgery Department offers comprehensive care for infants, children, and adolescents, from consultation to surgery and post-operative follow-up.
Key Advantages:
Medical Disclaimer
This article is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult a pediatrician for diagnosis and treatment.
Yes. Although more common in boys, girls can also develop inguinal hernias, sometimes involving an ovary.
When intestines or organs become trapped (incarcerated) or blood supply is cut off (strangulated), requiring emergency surgery.
Look for a bulge in the groin or scrotum that appears when crying and disappears when relaxed. Persistent bulges or pain require immediate medical attention.
No. Surgery is necessary to repair the hernia and prevent complications.
Yes. It is a quick, safe procedure performed by specialists, usually as same-day surgery.
Read more:
Umbilical Hernia in Children: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment
Undescended Testicle in Children: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment
An undescended testicle in children is a common condition that often worries parents, especially when they notice one or both testicles missing from scrotum.
Many parents ask questions like:
What is the best age for surgery?
In this article, we will cover in detail the causes, symptoms, treatment options, and complications of undescended testicles, as well as their impact on fertility.
Before birth, the testicles develop inside the abdomen of a male fetus. Shortly before delivery, they move through the inguinal canal and descend into the scrotum. Normally, this process is completed before birth.
However, in some babies, especially those born prematurely, one or both testicles fail to descend and remain in the abdomen or groin. This condition is called undescended testicle or cryptorchidism.
In some cases, the testicle may descend naturally within the first six months of life. If not, medical intervention or surgery may be required to ensure the testicle is in its proper position.
The exact cause is unknown, but several factors may increase the risk:
Undescended testicles usually do not cause pain or urinary problems, but there are signs you can look for:
Sometimes the testicle appears and disappears, especially when the child is cold or upset, this is called a retractile testicle, which usually does not require surgery
If you notice any of these signs, consult a pediatrician for proper diagnosis and timely treatment. Add a link to “Pediatrician”, that take the audience to the Pediatric consultant's inner page
Doctors usually detect undescended testicles during a newborn’s physical exam. If your child has this condition, ask about follow-up visits. If the testicle has not descended by 3–4 months, it is unlikely to correct itself.
Older children may develop what appears to be a missing testicle later in life. This could indicate:
Seek medical advice immediately if you notice any changes in your child’s genital area.
Leaving the condition untreated can lead to serious health issues:
Fertility Problems: High abdominal temperature can damage sperm production, reducing future fertility.
Increased Risk of Testicular Cancer: Men with undescended testicles are more likely to develop testicular cancer, especially if both testicles are affected.
Testicular Torsion: A medical emergency requiring immediate surgery to prevent loss of the testicle.
Inguinal Hernia: Part of the intestine may push into the groin through a weak spot in the abdominal muscles, causing a painful bulge. Comment
Delayed Puberty: In some cases, undescended testicles can delay puberty signs.
Psychological Impact: May affect body image and self-confidence during adolescence.
If the testicle does not descend naturally within six months, medical intervention is necessary.
In newborns, doctors may monitor for up to 3 months as the testicle may descend on its own.
Hormone injections were once used to stimulate descent, but this method is now rarely recommended due to limited effectiveness compared to surgery.
The most effective treatment is surgery to move the testicle into the scrotum and secure it.
Used when the testicle is inside the abdomen. The surgeon may correct the position during the same procedure or later if needed.
The Pediatric Surgery Department at Mouwasat Hospital offers comprehensive care for infants, children, and adolescents, including undescended testicle surgery. Key advantages include:
These features make Mouwasat Hospital a trusted choice for safe and effective pediatric surgeries.
Medical Disclaimer
This article is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult a pediatrician for diagnosis and treatment.
Not initially, but if left untreated, it can lead to infertility and increase the risk of testicular cancer.
Yes, sometimes within the first six months. If not, surgery is usually required.
Hormonal therapy is rarely used today due to low success rates. Surgery (orchiopexy) is the most effective treatment.
Between 6 and 18 months for optimal results and reduced complications.
About 30–60 minutes, and most children go home the same day.
General anesthesia with child-specific safety protocols.
Most children resume normal activities within 1–2 weeks.
Read more:
Umbilical Hernia in Children: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment
Inguinal Hernia in Children: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment
Children may experience urinary or genital problems that require specialized medical intervention. Some conditions are simple and can be treated by a pediatrician, but others need a pediatric urology surgeon to ensure accurate diagnosis and proper treatment.
In this article, we review the most common urinary and genital disorders in children, their causes, symptoms, and treatment options.
Pediatric urology surgery is a highly specialized branch of pediatric surgery focused on diagnosing, treating, and rehabilitating congenital and acquired disorders of the urinary and genital systems in children and adolescents.
Statistics indicate that urinary tract diseases in children account for 10% to 20% of all urological conditions, and approximately 75% of pediatric surgeries are urological, highlighting the importance of having an expert team and advanced techniques for optimal outcomes.
Children may suffer from urinary or genital issues, some requiring immediate medical attention or even surgery. Parents should pay attention to symptoms, especially in infants who cannot express pain.
The first step is usually visiting a pediatrician, but in complex cases or those unresponsive to treatment, the doctor may refer you to a pediatric urology specialist for a more accurate evaluation and tailored treatment plan.
Children may face various urinary tract and genital issues affecting normal urination or genital development. These problems fall into two main categories: urinary system disorders and genital system disorders.
A condition where urine flows backward from the bladder into the ureters and kidneys instead of exiting normally, due to a malfunctioning one-way valve.
Common Symptoms of VUR:
This condition increases the risk of recurrent urinary tract infections and may lead to kidney damage or failure if untreated.
Surgical repair between 6–12 months to reposition the urethral opening and correct curvature.
Al Mouwasat Hospital is among the leading centers for pediatric urology surgery, offering comprehensive care for complex and critical cases according to international standards. Our services include:
Our Pediatric Surgery Department provides integrated surgical care for infants, children, and adolescents, focusing on the highest safety and quality standards. Key features include:
Choosing Al Mouwasat Hospital means ensuring your child receives specialized, safe, and efficient care, making us the ideal destination for pediatric urology surgeries in the Kingdom
Children may experience urinary or genital problems that require specialized medical intervention. Some conditions are simple and can be treated by a pediatrician, but others need a pediatric urology surgeon to ensure accurate diagnosis and proper treatment.
In this article, we review the most common urinary and genital disorders in children, their causes, symptoms, and treatment options.
Pediatric urology surgery is a highly specialized branch of pediatric surgery focused on diagnosing, treating, and rehabilitating congenital and acquired disorders of the urinary and genital systems in children and adolescents.
Statistics indicate that urinary tract diseases in children account for 10% to 20% of all urological conditions, and approximately 75% of pediatric surgeries are urological, highlighting the importance of having an expert team and advanced techniques for optimal outcomes.
Children may suffer from urinary or genital issues, some requiring immediate medical attention or even surgery. Parents should pay attention to symptoms, especially in infants who cannot express pain.
The first step is usually visiting a pediatrician, but in complex cases or those unresponsive to treatment, the doctor may refer you to a pediatric urology specialist for a more accurate evaluation and tailored treatment plan.
Children may face various urinary tract and genital issues affecting normal urination or genital development. These problems fall into two main categories: urinary system disorders and genital system disorders.
A condition where urine flows backward from the bladder into the ureters and kidneys instead of exiting normally, due to a malfunctioning one-way valve.
Common Symptoms of VUR:
This condition increases the risk of recurrent urinary tract infections and may lead to kidney damage or failure if untreated.
Surgical repair between 6–12 months to reposition the urethral opening and correct curvature.
Al Mouwasat Hospital is among the leading centers for pediatric urology surgery, offering comprehensive care for complex and critical cases according to international standards. Our services include:
Our Pediatric Surgery Department provides integrated surgical care for infants, children, and adolescents, focusing on the highest safety and quality standards. Key features include:
Choosing Al Mouwasat Hospital means ensuring your child receives specialized, safe, and efficient care, making us the ideal destination for pediatric urology surgeries in the Kingdom
An undescended testicle in children is a common condition that often worries parents, especially when they notice one or both testicles missing from scrotum.
Many parents ask questions like:
What is the best age for surgery?
In this article, we will cover in detail the causes, symptoms, treatment options, and complications of undescended testicles, as well as their impact on fertility.
Before birth, the testicles develop inside the abdomen of a male fetus. Shortly before delivery, they move through the inguinal canal and descend into the scrotum. Normally, this process is completed before birth.
However, in some babies, especially those born prematurely, one or both testicles fail to descend and remain in the abdomen or groin. This condition is called undescended testicle or cryptorchidism.
In some cases, the testicle may descend naturally within the first six months of life. If not, medical intervention or surgery may be required to ensure the testicle is in its proper position.
The exact cause is unknown, but several factors may increase the risk:
Undescended testicles usually do not cause pain or urinary problems, but there are signs you can look for:
Sometimes the testicle appears and disappears, especially when the child is cold or upset, this is called a retractile testicle, which usually does not require surgery
If you notice any of these signs, consult a pediatrician for proper diagnosis and timely treatment. Add a link to “Pediatrician”, that take the audience to the Pediatric consultant's inner page
Doctors usually detect undescended testicles during a newborn’s physical exam. If your child has this condition, ask about follow-up visits. If the testicle has not descended by 3–4 months, it is unlikely to correct itself.
Older children may develop what appears to be a missing testicle later in life. This could indicate:
Seek medical advice immediately if you notice any changes in your child’s genital area.
Leaving the condition untreated can lead to serious health issues:
Fertility Problems: High abdominal temperature can damage sperm production, reducing future fertility.
Increased Risk of Testicular Cancer: Men with undescended testicles are more likely to develop testicular cancer, especially if both testicles are affected.
Testicular Torsion: A medical emergency requiring immediate surgery to prevent loss of the testicle.
Inguinal Hernia: Part of the intestine may push into the groin through a weak spot in the abdominal muscles, causing a painful bulge. Comment
Delayed Puberty: In some cases, undescended testicles can delay puberty signs.
Psychological Impact: May affect body image and self-confidence during adolescence.
If the testicle does not descend naturally within six months, medical intervention is necessary.
In newborns, doctors may monitor for up to 3 months as the testicle may descend on its own.
Hormone injections were once used to stimulate descent, but this method is now rarely recommended due to limited effectiveness compared to surgery.
The most effective treatment is surgery to move the testicle into the scrotum and secure it.
Used when the testicle is inside the abdomen. The surgeon may correct the position during the same procedure or later if needed.
The Pediatric Surgery Department at Mouwasat Hospital offers comprehensive care for infants, children, and adolescents, including undescended testicle surgery. Key advantages include:
These features make Mouwasat Hospital a trusted choice for safe and effective pediatric surgeries.
Medical Disclaimer
This article is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult a pediatrician for diagnosis and treatment.
Not initially, but if left untreated, it can lead to infertility and increase the risk of testicular cancer.
Yes, sometimes within the first six months. If not, surgery is usually required.
Hormonal therapy is rarely used today due to low success rates. Surgery (orchiopexy) is the most effective treatment.
Between 6 and 18 months for optimal results and reduced complications.
About 30–60 minutes, and most children go home the same day.
General anesthesia with child-specific safety protocols.
Most children resume normal activities within 1–2 weeks.
Read more:
Umbilical Hernia in Children: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment
Inguinal Hernia in Children: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment
An umbilical hernia in children is a common condition that often worries parents, especially first-time parents. In most cases, it is not dangerous and resolves on its own during the early years of life.
Parents frequently ask:
This article explains the causes, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment options, and surgical indications for umbilical hernias in children.
An umbilical hernia occurs when part of the intestine protrudes through the abdominal wall near the belly button, creating a visible bulge. This bulge often becomes more noticeable when the child cries, coughs, or strains.
Umbilical hernias are very common in newborns and infants under 6 months old, affecting about 20% of babies. While most cases occur in infants, older children and even adults can develop umbilical hernias.
Umbilical hernias happen when the opening in the abdominal wall (where the umbilical cord passed during pregnancy) does not close completely after birth.
A visible bulge near the belly button is the main sign.
The size of the bulge may change:
Warning signs that require urgent medical attention:
Doctors usually diagnose an umbilical hernia through a physical examination.
The doctor may gently push the hernia back into the abdomen (called reduction). If it can be pushed back, the hernia is reducible, meaning the intestine is not trapped.
If the hernia cannot be reduced, it may indicate incarceration, which is an emergency.
In rare cases, an ultrasound may be ordered to check for complications.
Most umbilical hernias are harmless and close on their own by age 4 or 5.
Surgery may be recommended if:
Important:
Do not try home remedies like taping the hernia or using coins. These methods do not help and may cause infections.
Surgery is usually advised in the following cases:
A simple procedure performed under general anesthesia
The Pediatric Surgery Department at Al Mouwasat Hospital provides specialized surgical care for infants, children, and adolescents through a comprehensive approach that includes consultation, surgery preparation, the procedure itself, and post-operative follow-up.
All of this is delivered in close collaboration with supporting departments such as anesthesia, pediatric intensive care, and neonatal units, ensuring integrated and safe care.
Medical Disclaimer
This article is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult a pediatrician for diagnosis and treatment.
Usually not, but complications like incarceration require urgent care.
Yes, most cases resolve by age 4–5.
If it persists beyond age 4–5 or complications occur.
About 30–45 minutes, and the child usually goes home the same day.
Read more:
Undescended Testicle in Children: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment
Inguinal Hernia in Children: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment
Welcome to our interactive Q&A session with the fertility specialists at Mouwasat Hospital. We understand that embarking on the journey of In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) can bring about many questions & uncertainties. Our dedicated team is here to provide you with clear, accurate & compassionate answers to help guide you through the process.
Below, we've compiled some of the most frequently asked questions about IVF. If you have a question that isn't answered here, please don't hesitate to schedule a consultation with one of our specialists.
Q: Who is a good candidate for IVF treatment?
A: Dr. Wadha Mohawash: IVF is often recommended for individuals or couples facing various fertility challenges, including:
A thorough evaluation & discussion with our fertility specialists will help determine if IVF is the most suitable treatment option for your specific situation.
Q: What are the basic steps involved in the IVF process?
A: Dr. Amin Eljurdi: The typical IVF process involves several key stages:
We will guide you through each of these steps with detailed explanations & personalized care.
Q: How long does one cycle of IVF typically take?
A: Dr. Wadha Mohawash: A complete IVF cycle, from the start of ovarian stimulation to the pregnancy test, typically takes around 4 to 6 weeks. However, this timeline can vary depending on individual responses to medication & specific treatment protocols.
Q: What are the success rates of IVF at Mouwasat Hospital?
A: Dr. Amin Eljurdi: IVF success rates are influenced by several factors, including the woman's age, the underlying cause of infertility, the quality of eggs & sperm, & the expertise of the fertility clinic. At Mouwasat Hospital, we are proud of our [clinic's general success rate range up to 60%]. We utilize the latest technologies & evidence-based practices to optimize your chances of a successful outcome. We encourage you to discuss your individual prognosis with our specialists during your consultation.
Q: Are there any risks or side effects associated with IVF?
A: Dr. Wadha Mohawash: Like any medical procedure, IVF carries some potential risks & side effects, including:
We will thoroughly discuss these potential risks & side effects with you before starting treatment.
Q: How much does IVF treatment cost at Mouwasat Hospital?
A: Dr. Amin Eljurdi: The cost of IVF treatment can vary depending on the specific protocols, medications required & any additional procedures such as ICSI or PGT. We strive to provide transparent pricing & will provide you with a detailed breakdown of the expected costs during your initial consultation. Our team can also discuss available financing options or insurance coverage, if applicable.
Q: What can I do to improve my chances of IVF success?
A: Dr. Wadha Mohawash: While IVF success is primarily dependent on biological factors & the treatment protocol, certain lifestyle choices can positively influence your overall health & well-being during the process. We recommend:
Q: What support services do you offer to patients undergoing IVF?
A: Dr. Amin Eljurdi: At Mouwasat Hospital, we understand the emotional & physical demands of IVF. We offer comprehensive support services, including:
Have more questions?
Our dedicated fertility specialists are here to provide you with personalized answers & guide you through every step of your IVF journey. [Link to our what’s app specialized no.for IVF] to schedule a consultation & take the first step towards building your family.
Overview:
Everyone knows about the damage smoking causes. However, a lot of people, of all ages, still smoke and end up suffering from its effects. MOH seeks to put an end to smoking and help smokers quit, with the aim of saving their lives and protecting them from diseases, as well as ensuring all members of society remain healthy and free of diseases. Smoking is not limited to just traditional cigarettes. It can also include e-cigarettes, hookah, etc.
May 31st of every year marks a day of raising awareness about the importance of combating smoking in all its forms and informing people about its hazards, including many diseases, or even death.
Facts:
Objectives:
Official date:
Globally: May 31st, 2022
Locally: Dhul-Qi’dah 1st, 1443H.
Theme Tobacco:
Threat to our environment
References:
In light of the continuing spread of the Novel Corona Virus (COVID-19) at record rates in all countries of the world and not producing an effective until this moment, we must be aware of the severity of this disease and effective ways to protect ourselves and others from contracting or transmitting it. The Novel Corona Virus (abbreviated as "COVID-19") is an infectious disease caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus, a new strain of the Corona virus that was discovered at the end of 2019 in China, but COVID-19 spreads faster and is more likely to cause disease than its sibling, the SARS-CoV virus.
1. The main way to transmit the COVID-19 virus is through respiratory droplets that are transmitted between people who are close to each other when they are in closed places or in crowded places for long periods. The respiratory droplets spread when people in closed or crowded places sneeze or cough.
2. COVID-19 virus is transmitted when people touch surfaces and objects, such as: Tables, chairs, doorknobs, switches and handrails that have been contaminated by people with COVID-19.
3. The COVID-19 virus is transmitted when infected people talk without mask while they are in places that lack adequate ventilation, noting that a good number of infected people do not show any symptoms indicating that they are infected with the disease. The main symptoms of COVID-19 infection include: Cough, fever, muscle aches, fatigue, loss of the sense of smell and taste, shortness of breath, and gastrointestinal symptoms, such as: diarrhea and vomiting.
1. Frequently wash your hands with soap and water and use of alcohol hand rubs to get rid of viruses, including the COVID-19 virus, which sticks to the hands when touching surfaces, tables, chairs and door handles and avoid transmitting viruses unconsciously when touching your nose or face.
2. Use of tissue is recommended when coughing or sneezing.
3. Maintain a distance of more than two meters between yourself and other people. To maintain social distancing, hold business meetings using virtual means and avoid going to places crowded with people.
4. Ensure to wear facemask properly at all time.
5. Keep surfaces clean, as the COVID-19 virus can be transmitted from person to person by touching frequently used surfaces, such as: Doorknobs, smart phones, bathroom fixtures, kitchen tables, desks, remote controls, flat surfaces, and areas where respiratory droplets remain contaminated.
