SEMARANG – Hernias in babies and children can become life-threatening if treatment is delayed. Pediatric digestive surgeon and lecturer at The Faculty of Medicine Universitas Diponegoro (FK Undip), dr. Edwin, warned that intestines descending into the scrotum can become trapped, perforate, and trigger severe infection in the abdominal cavity if not treated surgically without delay.
Speaking in the health podcast “OaSe: Obrolan Sehat” produced by Universitas Diponegoro, Dr. Edwin explained that hernias in children are different from hydroceles, which in many cases can resolve on their own within 6–12 months.
“Hernias should be operated on immediately once diagnosed, even in newborn babies. Do not wait for the child to get older,” he said, as quoted on Wednesday (May 20, 2026).
According to Dr. Edwin, a hernia occurs when a congenital passage in the inguinal or groin area fails to close completely, allowing organs such as the intestines or fatty tissue to descend into the scrotum. The condition is usually marked by a lump that appears and disappears, often becoming more noticeable when the child cries or strains.
The greatest danger of a hernia occurs when the intestine becomes trapped, a condition known as incarceration. Within hours, the affected intestine can be damaged and perforate. If intestinal contents leak into the abdominal cavity, the child may develop a severe infection or peritonitis, which can be life-threatening.
Dr. Edwin also advised parents not to massage or force a hernia lump back in, as this may injure the intestine and cause adhesions.
Meanwhile, a hydrocele is a condition caused by a buildup of fluid in the scrotum due to a small channel that has not completely closed since birth. Unlike a hernia, a hydrocele is generally not dangerous, does not affect fertility, and often resolves on its own as the child grows.
“A hydrocele usually appears bright when illuminated with a flashlight because it is filled with fluid, while a hernia appears dark because it contains solid organs such as the intestine,” Dr. Edwin explained.
Even so, a hydrocele should still be medically evaluated if the lump becomes larger, causes pain, or does not disappear after 6–12 months of age. In such cases, surgery may be required.
In addition to providing education about hernias and hydroceles, Dr. Edwin encouraged pregnant women to maintain good health during pregnancy by meeting nutritional needs, avoiding viral infections, and undergoing regular prenatal check-ups to help reduce the risk of congenital abnormalities in babies.
He emphasized that if parents notice a lump in a child’s groin or scrotum, they should immediately seek medical evaluation from a general practitioner, surgeon, or pediatric surgeon so that treatment can be provided as early as possible.
(Public Relations of The Faculty of Medicine Universitas Diponegoro/Saradita/Erman)
