A healthy navel, or umbilicus, is simply a scar left on the abdomen after the umbilical cord detaches following birth. Its appearance varies significantly from person to person, much like other scars. The shape, size, and depth are determined by the natural healing process. A healthy navel is characterized by the absence of pain, unusual discharge, or significant redness.
The Origin and Anatomy of the Navel
The umbilicus marks the former attachment site of the umbilical cord, which served as the lifeline between a fetus and the placenta, providing oxygen and nutrients. After birth, the cord is clamped and cut. The remaining stump shrivels and falls off, typically within a few weeks.
The resulting scar tissue forms the navel, which no longer serves a physiological purpose in adulthood. Behind the navel, the remnants of the umbilical blood vessels and the urachus—a tube connecting the fetal bladder to the cord—seal off and turn into fibrous ligaments. The final appearance of the navel is a consequence of how this healing process occurs and how the surrounding skin attaches to the underlying abdominal fascia.
Common Variations in Appearance
Most navel appearances are considered normal and are primarily cosmetic variations. The most common forms are categorized informally as an inverted navel or “innie,” and a protruding navel or “outie.” Approximately 90% of people have an innie, a concave depression formed when the umbilical stump tissue pulls inward during healing.
An outie, present in about 10% of the population, occurs when the umbilical scar tissue protrudes outward instead of sinking into the abdomen. This protrusion can range from a slight bump to a more pronounced knot. Innie shapes vary widely—appearing as round, oval, vertical, or T-shaped—often influenced by fat distribution and abdominal wall structure.
Other normal features include a hooded navel, where a fold of skin partially covers the opening, or a deep hollow, sometimes referred to as a funnel shape. Factors such as pregnancy or significant weight changes can temporarily or permanently alter a navel’s shape and size. These differences in contour are part of natural human variation and do not indicate a person’s health status.
Signs of Concern and When to Seek Help
While most variations are harmless, certain signs suggest a localized health issue requiring medical attention. A healthy navel should not exhibit persistent pain, a foul odor, or unusual discharge. These symptoms often point toward a localized infection, which may be bacterial or fungal due to the navel’s tendency to trap moisture and debris.
Signs of infection include redness, increased warmth, swelling, or a colored discharge that may be clear, yellowish, or bloody. A noticeable structural change, such as a new or painful bulge near the navel, could indicate an umbilical hernia. This occurs when a portion of the intestine or other tissue pushes through a weak spot in the abdominal wall.
If a bulge becomes hard, tender, or is accompanied by severe pain, fever, or vomiting, seek emergency medical care immediately. For any persistent discharge, redness, or unexplained pain that does not resolve with simple cleaning, consult a healthcare provider for diagnosis and treatment.
Maintaining Hygiene and Appearance
Routine hygiene is important for maintaining a healthy appearance and preventing issues like odor or minor irritation. The navel naturally traps lint, dead skin cells, and sweat, creating an environment where bacteria thrive. Cleaning the area gently with mild soap and warm water during a shower is typically sufficient.
For inverted navels, a cotton swab or the corner of a washcloth can be used to reach into the indentation and remove debris. Protruding navels are easier to clean because they are more exposed to the air. After washing, thoroughly pat the navel dry with a clean towel to prevent moisture from becoming trapped and inhibit bacterial growth.
Avoid applying heavy lotions, creams, or oils directly inside the navel, as these products can trap moisture and increase the risk of irritation or infection. If a mild odor is present without other signs of infection, it is often due to poor hygiene and can usually be resolved with a consistent cleaning and drying routine.