The belly button, or umbilicus, is the fibrous remnant of the umbilical cord, which provided vital nutrients and oxygen during development in the womb. During pregnancy, a person’s body undergoes numerous transformations to accommodate a growing baby, and the belly button frequently changes.
The Science Behind the Change
The primary reason an “innie” belly button might “pop out” during pregnancy is the expanding uterus. As the uterus grows to accommodate the developing fetus, it exerts increasing pressure on the abdominal wall. This outward pressure can cause the navel to protrude, transforming an innie into an outie.
This change is also influenced by the stretching of the abdominal muscles and connective tissues. The linea alba, a band of connective tissue running down the midline of the abdomen, thins and separates to allow for the growing belly. This separation, known as diastasis recti, along with the stretching of the skin around the navel, contributes to the belly button’s outward shift. This change typically becomes most noticeable during the second and third trimesters as the baby and uterus increase in size.
Post-Delivery Reversion
After childbirth, the body begins a gradual process of returning to its pre-pregnancy state. The uterus contracts and shrinks, and the pressure on the abdominal wall lessens. For most individuals, the belly button will revert to its “innie” position within weeks or months following delivery.
While the belly button generally goes back, its appearance might be slightly altered compared to before pregnancy. Some individuals may notice it appears a bit larger, stretched, or less deep than it once was. These minor changes are typically part of the normal postpartum recovery process.
When to Seek Medical Advice
While changes to the belly button during pregnancy are usually normal, certain symptoms warrant medical attention. Persistent pain or tenderness around the belly button could indicate an issue. Redness, discoloration, or a noticeable change in the size or texture of a bulge near the navel are also signs to discuss with a healthcare provider.
A bulge that is hard, cannot be gently pushed back in, or is accompanied by nausea or vomiting should be evaluated immediately. These symptoms could suggest an umbilical hernia with complications, which requires prompt medical assessment.