Your child will not feel any pain while their hernia is being repaired, but may feel sore and uncomfortable for a few days afterwards.

Local anaesthetic (which numbs the area) will be injected before the end of the operation to reduce the pain, and painkillers will also be given after the operation.

After the operation, your child may be tearful and sleepy, and demand extra attention as a result of the general anaesthetic. This is normal and will pass.

Most children can go home a few hours after surgery. They must have something to eat and drink first, and go to the toilet. Your child may need to stay in hospital overnight for monitoring if:

• they have other medical problems
• they vomit regularly after the operation and cannot keep down any food or drink

At home

Your child may have bruising and tenderness around the wound. This is normal and will settle within around seven days. You can give them painkillers such as paracetamol and ibuprofen (children under 16 must not be given aspirin).

Try to keep the wound dry for five to seven days. Your child can have a shower but they should avoid swimming and bathing.

Loose clothing may help reduce any discomfort your child has, but they should be able to wear trousers or a skirt as normal.

Most children naturally limit their own activity for a few days until they feel comfortable and well.

Going back to school

You can keep your child off school for five to seven days. This will give them time to recover from the anaesthetic and from the operation.

If your child is older, ask for them to be excused from sports and games for at least two weeks after they return to school.