Pregnancy causes many visible changes, and the transformation of the belly button often sparks curiosity. While a “popped-out” navel is commonly expected, many pregnant individuals find their belly button remains an “innie” or simply flattens. Whether your navel protrudes or not has no bearing on the health of your pregnancy or the well-being of your baby. This variation is due to individual anatomy and the mechanics of a growing abdomen.
The Anatomy of Navel Changes During Pregnancy
The primary force changing the navel during pregnancy is the growing uterus. As the fetus develops, the uterus expands significantly, rising out of the pelvis and pushing against the abdominal wall. This increasing internal pressure causes the abdomen to become taut and stretched.
The navel, or umbilicus, is a scar left from the umbilical cord connection. This area is a natural point of relative weakness in the abdominal fascia, the strong connective tissue that holds organs in place. When the abdominal wall stretches, this weak point is the most likely spot to give way under pressure.
The result is either a flattening of the indentation or a complete protrusion, turning an “innie” into an “outie.” This change typically occurs late in the second or early in the third trimester when abdominal pressure is highest. These changes are generally harmless and are a normal part of the body adapting to accommodate the growing baby.
Factors Determining Whether Your Belly Button Pops
The reason the belly button may not protrude lies in subtle differences in pre-pregnancy anatomy. The original depth of the navel is a significant factor; a deeply inverted “innie” requires substantial stretching and internal pressure to be pushed flush with the skin, let alone to protrude. Often, the pressure is only enough to make the navel look shallower or completely flattened.
The strength and nature of the scar tissue underneath the navel also play a determining role. The umbilical ring, the opening in the abdominal wall where the umbilical cord once passed, is covered by scar tissue that varies in thickness and elasticity. A strong or rigid patch of tissue is less likely to be pushed outward by internal pressure.
Other factors influence where pressure is concentrated:
- The position of the baby and the overall shape of the torso.
- If the baby is positioned lower or if the torso is longer, pressure may be distributed more evenly across the abdominal wall.
- The amount of subcutaneous fat and the tone of the abdominal muscles, which can cushion internal pressure.
It is normal for the belly button to never protrude, as this outcome is determined by these unique individual factors.
When to Consult a Doctor About Navel Changes
While navel changes are usually normal, certain symptoms should prompt a conversation with a healthcare provider. A key concern is the development of an umbilical hernia, which occurs when intestine or fatty tissue pushes through a weak spot in the abdominal wall near the navel. This presents as a soft lump or bulge that is more noticeable when coughing, sneezing, or straining.
Most umbilical hernias discovered during pregnancy are small and cause only mild discomfort, often requiring monitoring until after delivery. Seek immediate medical attention if the protruding area becomes suddenly painful, firm, or red, or if the pain is accompanied by nausea and vomiting. These symptoms could indicate a strangulated hernia, where the tissue has lost its blood supply.
Any sudden, severe pain around the navel, or the presence of discharge or bleeding from the area, warrants an immediate medical evaluation. Discussing any new bulge or significant tenderness with your obstetrician or midwife will ensure the change is properly assessed.