At 30, facing surgery wasn’t exactly on my radar. I always thought hernias were a problem for the elderly or those in physically demanding jobs. Little did I know, I had been living with two hernias—an epigastric hernia and an umbilical hernia—both likely caused during my pregnancies. Here's how I managed the process, from diagnosis to recovery, and some helpful tips for anyone going through the same journey.

What is a Hernia?

A hernia occurs when an organ or tissue pushes through a weak spot in the surrounding muscle or connective tissue. Epigastric hernias appear in the upper abdomen, while umbilical hernias occur near the belly button.

Did You Know?: Hernias are common, with over a million surgical repairs performed in the U.S. each year. They can result from increased pressure on the abdomen, such as during pregnancy, weightlifting, or heavy coughing.

My Symptoms and Diagnosis

For years, I noticed a small, soft bulge above my belly button but didn’t think much of it. It wasn’t until after the birth of my third child that it started causing discomfort, especially when practicing yoga. After visiting my doctor, I was diagnosed with both an epigastric and umbilical hernia. Surgery wasn’t urgent (He even told me I could wait a year or two!), but I decided to take action before the discomfort worsened.

Expert Tip: If you suspect you have a hernia, don’t ignore it. While some hernias may remain symptom-free, they can lead to complications like bowel obstruction or strangulation if left untreated. If you're unsure, check out this guide on hernia symptoms and treatment options for more details.

The Surgery Process

My surgery was straightforward. It took about two hours, from check-in to waking up in recovery. My surgeon used a laparoscopic approach, which involved making small incisions to insert a camera and tools to repair the hernias.

Pro Tip: Minimally invasive techniques like laparoscopic surgery typically offer faster recovery times, less post-op pain, and smaller scars compared to traditional open surgery. Learn more about the different surgical techniques here.

Recovery: What to Expect

The recovery process after hernia surgery can be challenging, especially when you’re a mom of three. For the first two weeks, my movement was limited, and I relied heavily on my husband for help around the house.

Movement: Getting up and down was difficult, and I had to be mindful of not overdoing it. The key is to take it slow and follow your doctor’s advice on activity restrictions.
Expert Advice: Doctors generally recommend no heavy lifting or strenuous activities for 4-6 weeks after surgery. Engaging in activities too soon can increase the risk of complications, like the hernia recurring.
Swelling: I experienced unexpected swelling in my lower belly. While this is common, always check with your doctor to rule out any potential issues.
Pro Tip: Wearing an abdominal binder post-surgery can help reduce swelling and provide support as your muscles heal. However, consider switching to a breathable binder if you live in a warmer climate or find the standard binder uncomfortable.

Coping With the Challenges

One of the hardest parts of my recovery was not being able to lift my youngest child. She struggled with the change, and it was emotionally challenging for me as a mom. But, staying positive and keeping the end goal in mind helped me push through.

Final Thoughts

If you’re considering hernia surgery, my biggest piece of advice is to plan ahead. Make sure you have support systems in place for recovery, whether it’s help from family, friends, or hiring temporary assistance. The road to recovery may be bumpy, but once you’re healed, you’ll be glad you made the decision.

If you’re at the start of your recovery or contemplating surgery, let me assure you: the time goes by quickly. If you have help, go for it! I wish you a speedy and healthy recovery.

Helpful Tools for Recovery and Comfort

Dealing with an epigastric hernia isn’t exactly a walk in the park, but having the right tools can make things a whole lot easier. These are my go-to essentials for staying comfortable and supported through recovery (because we all deserve a little extra care!):

Adjustable Abdominal Binder
Think of this as a gentle hug for your core. It provides just the right amount of compression to help you move around with less strain. Honestly, it’s a game-changer for day-to-day comfort.
Comfortable Heating Pad
When the discomfort kicks in, a little warmth can work wonders. This heating pad is super soft, has adjustable settings, and is basically my go-to for instant relief.
Supportive Posture Corrector
Keeping good posture isn’t easy when you’re sore, but it makes such a difference! This lightweight posture corrector helps reduce pressure on your belly and is subtle enough to wear under clothes.
Soft, High-Waisted Pants
Forget anything tight or digging into your waist—these high-waisted pants are breathable, stretchy, and perfect for lounging or errands. Total must-haves.
Overbed Table
If you’re spending more time resting, this table is a lifesaver. Whether it’s for snacks, books, or your laptop, it makes staying in bed or on the couch way more manageable.
Recliner Pillow with Armrests
Sitting up comfortably after an epigastric hernia can feel impossible without the right support. This pillow keeps you propped up and cozy—perfect for binging your favorite shows or getting some rest.

Further Resources:

Now, this is a step in the right direction—30 and handling the big, important things in life. Now, what’s next?? Something that doesn’t require cutting me open, I hope!

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My Personal Journey with an Epigastric and Umbilical Hernia: Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Recovery