During pregnancy, a mother's body undergoes significant physical changes, from the breasts and abdomen to the skin. One change that often attracts attention is the change in the shape of the belly button. Many expectant mothers wonder whether their belly button will remain inverted, flatten, or protrude as the pregnancy progresses.
Navel changes are actually a natural part of pregnancy. However, understanding when and why these changes occur can help expectant mothers feel more at ease and be alert to any abnormalities.
Can the Shape of the Belly Button Change During Pregnancy?
The navel is the site where the umbilical cord was attached during pregnancy. Anatomically, the navel is located on the abdominal wall and is composed of skin and surrounding connective tissue. Normally, the navel can be inverted (innie) or protrude (outie).
During pregnancy, the uterus enlarges as the fetus grows. This enlargement causes the abdominal wall and surrounding skin to stretch. This pressure from within the abdomen can cause the belly button to flatten or protrude. Therefore, changes in the shape of the belly button during pregnancy are generally normal and harmless.
Belly Button Shape During the First Trimester of Pregnancy (Weeks 1–12)
In the first trimester of pregnancy, changes in the shape of the navel are generally not yet visible significantly.
Weeks 1–4
In early pregnancy, changes in the shape of the belly button are generally not visible. The uterus is still small and nestled within the pelvis. Changes during this period are largely influenced by hormonal changes, such as nausea, breast tenderness, and fatigue.
Weeks 5–12
As the first trimester approaches, the abdominal skin begins to slowly stretch. However, for most pregnant women, the belly button remains inverted (innie) and no significant changes are visible.
Belly Button Shape During the Second Trimester of Pregnancy (Weeks 13–27)
In the second trimester, changes in the shape of the navel begin to appear as the uterus and stomach grow larger.
Week 13–20
In the second trimester, your belly begins to grow noticeably larger. Pressure from the rising uterus on your belly causes your belly button to appear flatter than before pregnancy.
Week 21–27
As the uterus grows, pressure on the abdominal wall increases. During this phase, some pregnant women begin to experience a slight protrusion of the belly button. This is normal and does not indicate a health problem.
Belly Button Shape During the Third Trimester of Pregnancy (Weeks 28–40)
In the third trimester, changes in the shape of the navel are usually most visible.
Week 28–36
Entering the third trimester, the abdominal skin stretches to its maximum. The belly button generally becomes more prominent and defined, especially in mothers with elastic abdominal skin or a large fetus.
Week 37–40
As labor approaches, the belly button may appear very prominent and feel more sensitive to the touch. This is part of the body's natural changes in response to the maximum pressure from the uterus and generally returns to its original size after delivery.
Factors Affecting Changes in the Shape of the Navel
Not all pregnant women experience the same changes in their belly buttons. Several factors influence this condition, including:
- Elasticity of abdominal skin
- Navel shape before pregnancy
- Initial weight and weight gain during pregnancy
- Size of fetus and amount of amniotic fluid
These factors determine how much change in the shape of the navel occurs.
When Should You Be Concerned About a Change in the Shape of Your Belly Button?
While changes in the shape of the navel during pregnancy are generally normal, it's still a cause for concern if accompanied by certain symptoms. Pain around the navel, persistent redness, a hard lump, swelling, or discharge can be signs of a medical condition. In some cases, these symptoms can indicate a skin infection, severe irritation, or an umbilical hernia, a condition where tissue inside the abdomen protrudes through the weakened abdominal wall due to pressure during pregnancy.
If a pregnant woman experiences changes in her belly button accompanied by pain, discomfort, or worsening symptoms, it is highly recommended to consult an obstetrician immediately. Through a physical examination and appropriate medical assessment, the doctor can determine whether the changes are within normal limits or require special treatment. Early consultation helps prevent complications that pose a risk to both mother and fetus and provides a sense of security until delivery.
This article was written by Dr. Ervina Ningsih, Sp.OG (Obstetrics and Gynecology Specialist at EMC Pulomas Hospital).