Short answer · Medically reviewed summary · Last updated: 2026-05-08
TL;DR: Gastroschisis is a congenital abdominal wall defect typically identified via prenatal ultrasound long before birth, characterized by the intestines protruding through an opening near the belly button. It is not a condition that develops in adults; if you are an adult, you do not have gastroschisis, as the condition requires immediate surgical intervention in the neonatal period. What is the nature of Gastroschisis? Gastroschisis is a birth defect where an infant's intestines, and sometimes other organs, extend outside of the body through a small opening beside the umbilical cord.
1 people with Gastroschisis have shared their first-person experience on this question at DiseaseMaps.
How do I know if I have Gastroschisis?
Could you have Gastroschisis? Early signs that prompted real patients to seek diagnosis, plus medically reviewed guidance.
TL;DR: Gastroschisis is a congenital abdominal wall defect typically identified via prenatal ultrasound long before birth, characterized by the intestines protruding through an opening near the belly button. It is not a condition that develops in adults; if you are an adult, you do not have gastroschisis, as the condition requires immediate surgical intervention in the neonatal period.
What is the nature of Gastroschisis?
Gastroschisis is a birth defect where an infant's intestines, and sometimes other organs, extend outside of the body through a small opening beside the umbilical cord. Because Gastroschisis is diagnosed during pregnancy or immediately at birth, it is not a condition that presents for the first time in adulthood. If you are researching this because of persistent abdominal pain or physical irregularities, these are likely related to other gastrointestinal conditions, not Gastroschisis.
How is Gastroschisis identified?
Medical professionals identify Gastroschisis through specific clinical tools. Because this is a structural defect present at birth, diagnostic patterns include:
- Prenatal Ultrasound: High-resolution imaging during the second trimester (typically 18–20 weeks) is the primary method for detecting Gastroschisis.
- Maternal Blood Screening: Elevated levels of alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) in the mother’s blood can serve as an early indicator prompting further investigation.
- Neonatal Assessment: At birth, the physical presence of the intestine outside the abdominal cavity is immediately visible to medical staff.
When should I seek medical advice?
If you are an adult experiencing abdominal protrusion, pain, or digestive concerns, please consult a gastroenterologist. While you cannot have Gastroschisis, you may have an umbilical hernia or another abdominal wall issue. When speaking to your doctor, be specific about your symptoms:
- Describe the exact location of the discomfort or physical bulge.
- Note how long you have observed these physical changes.
- Ask for a physical examination or imaging, such as an ultrasound or CT scan, to rule out hernias or other structural anomalies.
Next steps
- Consult a gastroenterologist or a general surgeon to evaluate any adult abdominal wall concerns.
- Join the DiseaseMaps.org community, where 196 people with Gastroschisis share their experiences and support.
- If you are an expectant parent with a prenatal diagnosis, seek care at a center with a high-level Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) and pediatric surgical specialists.
Medical disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and does not constitute professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
References
- NIH Genetic and Rare Diseases Information Center (GARD): Gastroschisis.
- Orphanet: Rare Disease Database - Gastroschisis.
- American Pediatric Surgical Association: Gastroschisis Patient Resources.
Posted Nov 2, 2017 by Jazmin 2000
