Are you a mom-to-be experiencing discomfort around your belly button? Do you feel pain, itching, or soreness in that area? Don’t worry, you’re not alone in this journey! Pregnancy brings about a myriad of changes in your body, and belly button issues can be one of them. Many expectant mothers wonder why they are experiencing belly button pain, itching, or soreness during this special time. In this article, we will explore the various causes behind these pregnancy-related symptoms and provide you with valuable insights. So, let’s dive into the realm of pregnancy and unravel the mysteries surrounding belly button pain.
What is the Belly Button?
The belly button is often the body’s first scar produced by the detachment of the umbilical cord after birth. Although it is not a biologically necessary component of the human body, the core is what makes the abdomen easier to divide. The belly button is mostly crucial during delivery operations. Any anomaly or problem in the human body can be identified by looking at the shape of the belly button.
Since several organs in the lower abdomen are related to the belly button, any discomfort experienced in those organs may result in periumbilical pain. These are the organs:
- The cecum
- The appendix
- The ovaries and Fallopian tubes
- The right ureter
- The colon
Numerous symptoms are associated with pregnancy—some are fascinating, others are just annoyances, and still others are excruciatingly terrible. One of these, pain under the navel, can be particularly bothersome since it frequently coincides with involuntary, sudden movements like coughing or sneezing. This feeling can have a number of different origins, and despite how unsettling it may be, it is generally typical in women. The majority of the time, pregnancy-related stomach aches and pains pose no danger to you or your unborn child. We did our best to include a few common causes of belly pain in pregnancy.
Do You Know? Belly button pain typically becomes noticeable during the second and third trimesters of pregnancy when the belly is growing rapidly. However, some women may experience it earlier or throughout their entire pregnancy.
Common Causes of Belly Button Pain During Pregnancy
Intestinal Infection
The area around the belly button may experience acute abdominal pain due to an intestinal infection. Other symptoms including nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and fever can also be brought on by infections.
You should be evaluated by a doctor because untreated intestinal infections during pregnancy might result in far worse issues. If necessary, antibiotics as well as medication to treat your nausea and pain may be recommended.
Umbilical Hernia
A pregnant woman’s umbilical hernia, which may develop or worsen, can also cause belly button pain. The doctor should examine these instances and determine whether special belly bands or surgical surgery are advised.
The most common cause of an umbilical hernia is when a portion of the colon bulges and protrudes through the abdomen. After giving delivery, it frequently gets better on its own. However, surgery to treat the hernia is advised if the hernia and the pain continue even after the baby is born.
Related: What You Need to Know About Umbilical Hernias During and After Pregnancy?
Gas and Constipation
Long before the baby is large enough to significantly modify the mother’s body physically, early pregnancy hormones cause a number of changes. For instance, early pregnancy hormones cause the digestive system to slow down. A slower digestive tract is better at extracting every calorie from the food the mother eats, which will become crucial to the growing fetus after the placenta is in place and the baby is entirely dependent on its mother for nutrition. Unfortunately, a slower digestive system also draws out more water from food, which results in fewer and tougher stools. Constipation can cause bloating, more gas than usual, and overall stomach pain.
Cramping
Before the baby is large enough to start testing the limits of its home, the uterus starts to get ready for the impending growth. This entails some expansion of the organ itself, as well as proliferation of the uterine lining that is far greater than what occurs each month during a typical menstrual cycle. These processes increase blood flow to the pelvis, which irritates the pelvic organs and can cause cramping in the bladder and uterus, which can both feel like pain behind the belly button. Pelvic congestion symptoms usually go away at the end of the first trimester.
Round Ligament Pain
The round ligament, which joins the uterus to the abdominal wall, suspends the uterus. Sharp or stabbing pains behind the belly button are caused by the organ’s stretching and cramping, which pulls on and stretches this ligament. Even in the earliest stages of pregnancy, round ligament discomfort is prevalent. Sudden movements, deep abdominal stretches, and perhaps even pressure can make it worse.
Baby Kicking
For many women, the movements of the fetus through the abdominal wall begin around the 22nd week, or sooner for experienced mothers. Depending on how strongly and where the baby kicks, some of the movements are rapid and fluttery, while others might be extremely acute. Although a well-placed kick toward the belly button’s interior can be uncomfortable, many women enjoy the palpable confirmation that their unborn child is, in fact, alive and kicking.
Belly Button Rings
Due to the skin’s increased sensitivity during pregnancy, women who have belly button rings are more prone to experience pain. Additionally, as the belly button is harder to clean, the risk of infection rises. Along with pain, the area may also experience swelling, redness, and discharge as symptoms. For removal and any necessary treatment, you should visit your doctor if your piercing is causing you issues.
You can think about belly button rings that are appropriate for use throughout pregnancy. These are normally constructed of surgical stainless steel and will enlarge as the belly grows.
Remedies For Belly Button Pain
Sadly, the belly button pain during pregnancy won’t completely go away until the baby is delivered. But until then, there are treatments that can lessen the discomfort.
Pregnancy belly button pain treatment options include:
- Sleeping on the right or left side of the body to alleviate pressure
- Wearing a maternity support belt to prevent skin stretching and support the abdomen
- Wearing clothing that does not cling to the abdomen to keep pressure to a minimum
- Applying cocoa butter or a moisturizing cream to the skin near the abdominal belly button
Irritation can result from any itchiness that causes the abdomen to be scratched. The act of scratching hurtful locations might also signify another thing. If this is the case, applying lotion to the stomach will help keep it hydrated and lessen any pain felt near the belly button.
Related: Function, Types and When to Buy Pregnancy Belt?
When Doctor Should Be Consulted?
Most of the time, belly button pain is not a cause for concern. Of course, there are always exceptions where speaking with a healthcare expert is required.
Those exceptions include the presence of:
- Bleeding
- Swelling
- Cramping
- Vomiting
- Fever
To make sure that both mother and unborn child are as healthy as possible throughout the pregnancy, it is advised to seek medical advice from a specialist as soon as any of these symptoms are present.
Conclusion
In conclusion, we’ve dived deep into the realm of belly button pain, unraveling the potential causes and shedding light on effective solutions. Experiencing that nagging pain, relentless itching, or persistent soreness in your belly button can truly be a bothersome ordeal. However, armed with knowledge and understanding, you now have the power to take charge of your well-being. Remember, maintaining impeccable hygiene, steering clear of irritants, and embracing professional guidance are the secret ingredients to finding the relief you seek. So, bid farewell to belly button woes and embrace a life of comfort and confidence. You deserve nothing less!
Related: 16 Causes of Pelvic Pain During Pregnancy and How to Get Relief?
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does my Belly Button Itch so much?
Persistent itching around the belly button can be caused by various factors. It may be due to an allergic reaction to a particular substance, skin dryness, or even a fungal infection. Proper diagnosis by a healthcare professional is necessary to determine the exact cause and provide appropriate treatment.
Can Poor Hygiene lead to Belly Button Pain?
Yes, poor hygiene can contribute to belly button discomfort. Failing to keep the area clean and dry can create an environment where bacteria and fungi thrive, leading to infections and subsequent pain or soreness.
When should I be Concerned about Belly Button Pain?
If you experience severe or persistent belly button pain, especially if accompanied by other symptoms like fever, vomiting, or difficulty urinating, it’s important to seek medical attention promptly. These could be signs of a more serious underlying condition that requires immediate treatment.
How can I Prevent Belly Button Infections?
Maintaining good hygiene is key to preventing belly button infections. Clean the area gently with mild soap and water, ensuring it’s thoroughly dried afterward. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive materials around the belly button. If you have an existing skin condition, such as eczema, taking steps to manage and treat it can also reduce the risk of infections.
Can I Treat Belly Button Pain at Home?
For mild cases of belly button pain or soreness, home remedies can help alleviate discomfort. Applying a warm compress to the area or using over-the-counter topical creams specifically formulated for skin irritations may provide temporary relief. However, it’s essential to consult a healthcare professional if the pain persists or worsens.
How is Belly Button Pain Diagnosed and Treated?
The diagnosis and treatment of belly button pain will depend on the underlying cause. A healthcare professional will evaluate your symptoms, medical history, and may conduct physical examinations or order diagnostic tests, such as blood tests or imaging studies. Treatment options can range from simple measures like hygiene improvements or topical medications to surgical interventions for more severe cases, such as hernias.
