The belly button, also known as the navel or umbilicus, is a small scar left behind after birth — a reminder of the umbilical cord that once connected you to your mother. Though it may seem like a simple feature, the belly button is surprisingly unique from person to person.
According to experts at The Web Health, there are several distinct belly button types, each with its own shape, depth, and even health significance. Beyond appearance, the navel can sometimes reveal important information about a person’s posture, muscle tone, or even internal health issues.
In this article, we’ll explore the different Belly Button Types, what influences their shape, what they might say about your body, and how to keep this often-overlooked area clean and healthy.
What Determines Belly Button Shape?
Before diving into the various Belly Button Types, it’s important to understand what causes these differences. The shape and structure of your belly button are determined by:
Key Factors:
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The Way the Umbilical Cord Heals:
After birth, the umbilical cord is cut, leaving behind a small stump that eventually falls off. The way it heals — and how much skin grows inward or outward — determines your belly button’s final appearance.
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Genetic Factors:
Just like fingerprints, your navel shape is unique and can be influenced by genetic traits passed from your parents.
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Body Type and Weight:
The amount of fat and muscle around your abdomen can make the belly button appear deeper, wider, or more stretched.
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Surgery or Piercing:
Abdominal surgeries, like laparoscopic procedures, or navel piercings can alter the shape of your belly button.
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Pregnancy:
During pregnancy, the growing belly can stretch the navel outward. After childbirth, it may or may not return to its original form.
The Main Belly Button Types
There are several Belly Button Types, but most can be categorized into a few common shapes. While there’s no scientific link between your navel shape and personality, people are often fascinated by what their belly button says about them.
Let’s explore the main types recognized by The Web Health experts.
1. The “Innie” Belly Button
The Innie is by far the most common belly button type. As the name suggests, it curves inward, forming a small hollow.
Characteristics:
- Deep or shallow indentation.
- Typically round or oval in shape.
- Common in both men and women.
Health Note from The Web Health:
Innies are perfectly normal, but because they create a small cavity, they can collect dirt, sweat, and bacteria more easily. Regular cleaning with gentle soap and water is essential to prevent infections.
2. The “Outie” Belly Button
The Outie belly button sticks out rather than in. It’s less common and occurs when extra scar tissue from the umbilical cord pushes outward.
Characteristics:
- Slight bump or protrusion in the center of the abdomen.
- Often formed due to umbilical hernia in infancy (usually harmless).
Health Note from The Web Health:
Outies are not a cause for concern unless there’s pain, redness, or swelling — which may signal a hernia or infection requiring medical attention.
3. The “Horizontal” Belly Button
This type stretches side-to-side, giving the appearance of a horizontal slit rather than a round hole.
Characteristics:
- Common in people with strong abdominal muscles.
- May appear more stretched in individuals with higher body fat.
Insight from The Web Health:
While this type is completely natural, drastic changes in its shape over time may be related to weight gain, pregnancy, or abdominal muscle weakening.
4. The “Vertical” Belly Button
The Vertical or slit-shaped belly button is long and narrow, running up and down rather than side-to-side.
Characteristics:
- Often considered aesthetically appealing due to its symmetry.
- More common in individuals with a leaner physique.
Health Tip:
Vertical belly buttons are generally easier to keep clean than deep innies but can still trap sweat, especially during workouts. Clean and dry the area regularly.
5. The “Round” Belly Button
The Round belly button is small, neat, and circular — sometimes appearing as a perfect dot in the middle of the stomach.
Characteristics:
- Compact and evenly shaped.
- Usually shallow but may vary slightly in depth.
Observation from The Web Health:
This type is purely aesthetic and not linked to any specific health condition. However, if it suddenly becomes raised or inflamed, it may indicate irritation or infection.
6. The “Oval” Belly Button
The Oval or oblong type is similar to the vertical one but slightly wider and more elongated.
Characteristics:
- Common in both men and women.
- Often appears during or after pregnancy due to abdominal stretching.
Health Note:
An oval navel that changes drastically in size or shape could signal an umbilical hernia. The Web Health recommends consulting a doctor if you notice bulging, tenderness, or pain in the area.
What Your Belly Button Might Say About Your Health
While your navel sha The Web Health, it’s important to pay attention to the following warning signs:
1. Redness or Swelling
Could indicate an infection, especially if accompanied by pain or discharge.
2. Unusual Discharge or Odor
Might suggest a bacterial or fungal infection — more common in deep innies.
3. Bulging or Tenderness
Can point to an umbilical hernia, where tissue pushes through the abdominal wall.
4. Bleeding or Crusting
Should never be ignored. See a healthcare provider promptly for diagnosis and treatment.
Your belly button may be small, but changes in its appearance or sensation can reveal bigger health concerns.
Caring for Your Belly Button: The Web Health Tips
Proper belly button hygiene is essential for preventing irritation and infection, regardless of its type.
Daily Care Routine:
- Wash gently with mild soap and warm water.
- Dry thoroughly using a soft towel or cotton swab.
- Avoid using alcohol, hydrogen peroxide, or harsh antiseptics regularly, as they can irritate the skin.
- If you have a piercing, clean it daily with a saline solution to prevent bacterial buildup.
The Web Health Reminder:
Always monitor for redness, pain, or discharge. A clean, dry navel is a healthy one.
Interesting Belly Button Facts
- Everyone’s belly button is unique, just like fingerprints.
- Some cultures consider the navel a symbol of life and connection.
- Belly button lint (yes, it’s real!) forms from tiny clothing fibers and dead skin.
- The navel harbors dozens of bacterial species, most harmless but some potentially infectious if not cleaned properly.
These fun facts from The Web Health remind us that even the smallest body parts have fascinating stories.
Final Thoughts: Embrace Your Unique Belly Button
Whether you have an innie, outie, or any other shape, your belly button is a natural part of your body’s story — a reminder of life’s earliest connection.
Understanding the different Belly Button Types can help you appreciate your body more, recognize potential health changes early, and take better care of your skin.
As The Web Health emphasizes, no matter the type, what matters most is maintaining good hygiene and body confidence. After all, your belly button is uniquely yours — and that’s something worth celebrating.
