Is It Normal for the Navel to Protrude During Pregnancy?

Reviewed by Suo Lee, MD

Internal Medicine

Yes, it is normal for your navel to protrude during pregnancy as your abdomen expands, though significant or painful changes should be evaluated.

Explanation

During pregnancy, your abdominal wall stretches and your uterus enlarges, which can cause your navel (belly button) to protrude. This is a common, normal change due to the increased intra-abdominal pressure and the natural changes in connective tissue. In many women, what appears to be just a more prominent navel is simply part of the overall stretch and growth of the abdomen. However, if the protrusion of the navel is accompanied by pain, discomfort, or other unusual symptoms, it may indicate an umbilical hernia or another issue that could require medical attention. Studies have shown that umbilical hernias in pregnant women are not uncommon, and while many cases are benign, they sometimes require monitoring or intervention. If you’re concerned about the changes in your navel or experience additional symptoms, it is a good idea to consult your healthcare provider for further evaluation and peace of mind.

(References)

Kulacoglu H. Umbilical Hernia Repair and Pregnancy: Before, during, after…. Front Surg. 2018 Jan 29;5:1. doi: 10.3389/fsurg.2018.00001. PMID: 29435451; PMCID: PMC5796887.
Haskins IN, Rosen MJ, Prabhu AS, Amdur RL, Rosenblatt S, Brody F, Krpata DM. Umbilical hernia repair in pregnant patients: review of the American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program. Hernia. 2017 Oct;21(5):767-770. doi: 10.1007/s10029-017-1633-8. Epub 2017 Jul 22. PMID: 28735364.
Tallhage S, Årestedt K, Schildmeijer K, Oscarsson M. Incidence and risk factors for umbilical cord prolapse in labor when amniotomy is used and with spontaneous rupture of membranes: A Swedish nationwide register study. Acta Obstet Gynecol Scand. 2024 Feb;103(2):304-312. doi: 10.1111/aogs.14717. Epub 2023 Nov 15. Erratum in: Acta Obstet Gynecol Scand. 2025 Jan;104(1):245. doi: 10.1111/aogs.15027. PMID: 37969005; PMCID: PMC10823388.

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