During pregnancy, many individuals notice a change in their navel, often described as their “belly button popping out.” This refers to the navel transitioning from an “innie” to an “outie” or becoming noticeably flatter. This common physical adjustment is generally a temporary and normal part of the body’s adaptation to pregnancy.
When and Why it Happens
A ‘popped’ belly button typically occurs in the second or third trimester. The exact timing varies among individuals, influenced by pre-pregnancy body shape and uterine expansion.
The primary reason for this change is the continuous growth of the uterus, which exerts increasing pressure on the abdominal wall. This internal pressure causes the navel, a natural indentation, to protrude outward.
The linea alba, a fibrous band of connective tissue running vertically down the midline of the abdomen, also plays a role. During pregnancy, this structure naturally stretches and thins to accommodate the growing abdomen, allowing the navel area to be pushed forward and become an “outie” or flatten.
What to Expect
A protruding navel during pregnancy is a common and harmless occurrence, representing a normal adaptation of the body to the growing uterus. Not every pregnant individual will experience their belly button “popping” out; some may find their navel merely flattens, while for others, it may remain an “innie” throughout their pregnancy. This variability is influenced by individual anatomy, the pre-pregnancy shape of the navel, and the strength of the abdominal muscles.
Some individuals might notice mild sensations around the navel area as it changes shape, including stretching, slight tenderness, or increased sensitivity. Wearing loose-fitting clothing can help alleviate any discomfort or irritation from friction with tight garments.
Experiencing no change in the navel’s appearance, meaning it does not pop out or flatten, is also entirely normal and should not be a cause for concern. The absence of a protruding navel does not indicate any issues with the pregnancy or the baby’s development. It simply reflects individual anatomical differences in how the body responds to uterine expansion.
Distinguishing Normal Changes from Concerns
While a protruding navel is a normal pregnancy change, it is important to distinguish this from an umbilical hernia, which can sometimes develop or become more noticeable during gestation. An umbilical hernia occurs when a small part of the intestine or fatty tissue pushes through a weakened spot in the abdominal wall near the navel. This condition is different from the typical outward movement of the navel that occurs in most pregnancies.
Signs that might suggest an umbilical hernia, rather than just a normal “popped” belly button, include the presence of severe or persistent pain around the navel. Other concerning symptoms could involve the skin around the navel becoming discolored, such as red or purple, or the protrusion feeling hard and unyielding. If the bulge cannot be gently pushed back in, this also warrants medical attention.
Individuals experiencing sharp pain, tenderness, skin discoloration, or a protrusion that feels rigid and cannot be reduced should contact their healthcare provider. While umbilical hernias during pregnancy are often monitored and may not require immediate intervention, these symptoms could indicate a complication that necessitates professional evaluation. Seeking medical advice ensures proper diagnosis and guidance.
After Delivery
After childbirth, the navel typically returns to its pre-pregnancy state as the body recovers and the uterus shrinks back to its original size. This process usually occurs within a few weeks to several months following delivery. As the abdominal muscles regain their tone and the pressure from the uterus subsides, the navel gradually retracts inward.
While most belly buttons revert to their “innie” appearance, some individuals may notice a slight difference in its shape or depth compared to before pregnancy. This minor alteration is also considered a normal outcome of the significant bodily changes experienced during gestation. The body’s remarkable ability to adapt and recover means the navel generally settles back into a familiar form.