An "innie" or "outie" belly button is determined by how the skin heals after the umbilical cord stump falls off, a process that's mostly random and influenced by genetics, not how the cord was cut. An innie forms when the skin pulls inward, while an outie occurs when the skin protrudes, often due to minor skin overgrowth (granuloma) or a small, temporary umbilical hernia.
Any concave navel is called an “innie” and a convex one an “outie.” Sometimes outies can be caused by an umbilical hernia in the baby or another medical problem, but most of it is just due to what your genes encoded.
An innie-turned-outie: “Sometimes, a growing fetus in the uterus puts so much pressure on your abdominal wall that your belly button becomes an outie,” Dr. James explains. This is most likely to happen in the second or third trimester of pregnancy, most commonly around 26 weeks.
There's really no way to know if baby will have an innie or an outie belly button—and neither has anything to do with how the umbilical cord was clamped or cared for after birth, Scott says. Wondering if genetics play a role? According to Scott, they don't.
An outie could form because of an umbilical hernia or an umbilical granuloma, conditions that are generally harmless but that should be looked into by your little one's healthcare provider.
Outie Belly Button Causes
Adults who start with innie belly buttons can develop outies because some internal pressure pushes the navel out. This can happen in cases of: Pregnancy because of the growing uterus. Ascites when fluid develops in the peritoneal cavity, usually because of a kidney or liver disorder.
As long as the bulge is soft and compressible, isn't extremely swollen or tender, and isn't causing your child any discomfort, it's not a problem. These hernias usually go away by 12 to 18 months, and 90 percent heal on their own before a child turns 4 years old. Surgery to close the hole is rarely necessary.
The formation of innies and outies
Some people believe whether you have an innie or an outie belly button depends on how the umbilical cord is cut or where the clamp is placed – but that isn't the case. It comes down to how the area heals and the scar forms, which depends on the individual.
Swirly/spiral: A rare form in which the umbilical cord scar forms a swirl shape. Split: The protruding umbilical cord scar extends outwards, but is cleft in two by a fissure which extends part or all the way through the umbilical cord scar. This form is similar in appearance to a coffee bean.
What does the navel do? After your umbilical cord stump heals closed and falls off, your navel doesn't do much of anything for the rest of your life. While it doesn't do anything itself, it's still important for aesthetic (beauty and appearance) reasons.
Most of us have innie belly buttons, with only about 10 percent outies.
Rapid weight gain can stretch the skin around the belly button, while weight loss can lead to loose skin and tissue, contributing to a saggy belly button.
Without getting in there and cleaning your belly button on the regular, the lingering gunk — e.g. dirt, sweat, dead skin cells, clothing fabric, and bacteria — can collect and "cause odor or even an infection," says Dr. Goldberg.
An outie vagina is defined by: Labia Minora: The inner lips extend beyond the labia majora and are clearly visible. Labia Majora: These outer lips may be less prominent or provide less coverage of the labia minora. Vulva Appearance: The vulva may appear more open or pronounced, with more visible folds of skin.
Both innie and outie vaginas are equally common, although some studies suggest that over 50% of women have outies. The length of the labia minora and labia majora determines whether a person has an innie or outie vagina.
The more your belly grows, the more pronounced the change to your belly button can become. It may even change from an innie to an outie, or protrude out further if you already have an outie. This change is more likely to happen in the final weeks of your first pregnancy.
The navel region is an erogenous zone with heightened sensitivity that when touched by the finger or the tip of the tongue can produce erotic sensations. Individuals who are ticklish in that area can be aroused by tickling, blowing raspberries, or being teased with a feather, flower, or blade of grass.
The Thunder God Eats Belly Buttons
In Japan, it is recommended to hide belly buttons during a thunder storm. Otherwise, the god of thunder will eat it. Japanese culture has some interesting myths and superstitions that differ significantly from western cultures.
Umbilicoplasty allows the surgeon to reshape the navel into a more desirable form—typically a vertical oval or gently teardrop shape, which is considered most attractive. The belly button isn't just about shape—it must also be correctly positioned on the abdomen.
In adults, umbilical hernias happen when pressure in your abdomen causes weaknesses in your abdominal wall muscles. Parts of your small intestine and related tissue can bulge through the weakened muscle. Several factors can increase your risk, including: Sex.
So, does “mom pooch” go away? Yes — at least, most of the time. Although postpartum belly is stubborn, the good news is that eventually, much of it will disappear on its own. Just as you experience hormonal changes during pregnancy, your hormones shift after you've given birth.
Overview of Belly Button Problems
If you've noticed discharge, a strong smell, pain, or another change in your belly button, you may need to see a doctor. If your belly button leaks discharge or blood, you may have a bacterial, fungal, or yeast infection.
An outie belly button is mainly a cosmetic issue and doesn't usually need treatment. Umbilical hernias are a common cause of outie belly buttons and may require surgery if symptomatic. There's no way to prevent having an outie belly button.