Ventral hernia and pregnancy: A systematic review

Consensus lacks concerning management of ventral hernia in women who are, or might become pregnant. The aim of this systematic review was to examine the risk of recurrence following pre-pregnancy ventral hernia repair, and secondly the prevalence of ventral hernia during pregnancy and the risk of surgical repair pre- and post-partum. PubMed, Embase, CINAHL, Cochrane Library and Web of Science were systematically searched for randomized controlled trials, case-control, cohort studies and larger case-series on ventral (umbilical, epigastric or incisional) hernia repair in relation to pregnancy. If possible, elective ventral repair should be postponed until after last pregnancy. A non-mesh repair seems appropriate for smaller primary ventral hernia in women who plan future pregnancies. Umbilical hernia during pregnancy seems very rare and seldom requires repair pre- and post-partum. Routine practice of umbilical hernia repair in combination with cesarean section cannot be recommended. PROSPERO: CRD42017073736. •If possible, elective ventral hernia repair should be postponed to after last pregnancy.•A watchful waiting strategy for umbilical hernia during pregnancy seems safe.•An umbilical hernia diagnosed in pregnancy might not require repair after delivery.