Physiological gut herniation

Last revised by Joshua Yap on 8 May 2023

Physiological gut herniation is a natural phenomenon that occurs in early pregnancy. It usually occurs from around 6-8 weeks until 12-13 weeks in utero, after which the bowel returns to the abdominal cavity. 

It occurs as a result of the bowel (particularly ileum) growing faster than the abdominal cavity during the early gestational period. In the physiological situation, the intestine elongates and moves outside of the embryonic abdomen herniating into the base of the umbilical cord. This occurs at ~8 weeks gestational age and is due to a number of factors including rapid growth of the cranial end of the midgut (which will form the small intestine), and the large size of the developing liver and kidneys. While the bowel is within the umbilical cord, the midgut rotates 90° counter-clockwise (facing the embryo). At approximately 10-11 weeks the abdomen enlarges and the intestines return to the abdominal cavity. The midgut then rotates an additional 180° counter-clockwise, fixing to the posterior retroperitoneum. 

  • presence of fetal bowel outside the anterior abdominal wall, at the base of the umbilical cord.

  • it should not be seen after 12-13 weeks of gestation

  • it should never contain herniation of other organs, such as the liver

  • the extent of herniation is comparatively small (often <7 mm)

  • frequency: according to one study, this may be seen in 4

    • ~65% of cases at 8 weeks

    • 100% at 9-10 weeks

    • ~25% at 11 weeks

For ultrasound imaging appearances, consider:

  • gastroschisis

  • omphalocele: if the midline bulge at <12 weeks appears larger than the fetal abdomen, consider follow-up ultrasound to exclude an omphalocele

ADVERTISEMENT: Supporters see fewer/no ads

Updating… Please wait.

 Unable to process the form. Check for errors and try again.

 Thank you for updating your details.