A belly button, or navel, is the scar left on the abdomen after the umbilical cord detaches following birth. Belly buttons come in diverse shapes and appearances, with an “innie” being a widely recognized type. It is essentially the body’s first scar.
How an Innie Belly Button Forms
The formation of an innie belly button begins with the severing of the umbilical cord after birth. The remaining umbilical stump usually shrivels and falls off within one to two weeks, leaving behind a scar. The way this stump heals and the surrounding skin retracts determines the shape of the navel.
An innie belly button, characterized by an inward fold or depression, forms when the tissue of the umbilical stump pulls inward during the natural healing process. The skin and scar tissue around the navel area attach and grow in a manner that creates this concave appearance. The depth and width of an innie can vary.
Differences Between Innie and Outie Belly Buttons
Belly buttons primarily appear as either an “innie” or an “outie,” both representing normal variations of the umbilical scar. Approximately 90% of the population has an innie belly button. An outie belly button occurs when the umbilical scar tissue protrudes outward.
The shape of the belly button is largely a matter of chance and is not determined by how the umbilical cord is cut or cared for. While an outie can sometimes be attributed to an umbilical hernia, where abdominal tissue pushes through a weak spot in the muscles, or an umbilical granuloma (extra tissue growth), in most instances, it is simply a natural anatomical variation. Factors such as the amount of scar tissue, the way the skin and muscles attach around the navel, and even changes in weight or pregnancy can influence its appearance.
Common Questions About Belly Buttons
After birth, the belly button serves no physiological function. It is primarily a cosmetic feature, though it does serve as an anatomical landmark for medical professionals. The appearance of the navel can change due to factors like pregnancy or significant weight fluctuations.
Maintaining hygiene is important for belly buttons, especially for innies which can collect dirt, dead skin cells, and lint due to their crevices. The belly button harbors a diverse microbial community, and neglecting cleaning can lead to odor, irritation, or infection. Regular cleaning with mild soap and water is recommended to prevent such issues. While belly button piercings are common, proper hygiene is crucial to avoid complications.