The Anatomy of Your Navel
Your belly button, or navel, is the scar left behind when your umbilical cord is removed at birth. This cord, which connects the baby to the mother, is cut shortly after delivery, leaving a small stump. The final appearance of your belly button is determined by how the remaining skin and tissue heal and retract, and it's a matter of biological chance. It is a persistent myth that the doctor's technique in cutting the cord or the method of clamping has any impact on the final shape.
Medically Speaking: Is One Better?
From a medical perspective, there is no significant health advantage to having either an innie or an outie. Both are considered normal and healthy variations. The primary health-related difference is a minor one related to potential medical conditions.
The Case of the Umbilical Hernia
Occasionally, an outie is caused by an umbilical hernia in infancy. This occurs when the abdominal wall muscles don't close completely, allowing a small portion of the intestines or fatty tissue to protrude through the opening. In most cases, these hernias are harmless and resolve on their own. In adults, an umbilical hernia can also cause an innie to become an outie, and this may require surgical repair. It is important to remember that most outies are not the result of a hernia, but it is a possibility to be aware of if the navel's appearance changes or is accompanied by pain.
Potential Health Issues and Risks
There are no specific health risks associated with either navel type, but they do have minor differences in terms of susceptibility to minor issues.
- Hygiene for Innies: Because of their concave shape, innies can collect lint, sweat, dead skin cells, and bacteria. This can lead to a build-up of debris and, if not cleaned regularly, can result in odor or minor infection. Regular and gentle cleaning is essential for proper hygiene.
- Irritation for Outies: Outies are less prone to collecting debris but can sometimes be more susceptible to irritation from tight clothing or friction. They are also less common, with one study indicating that only about 10% of the population has an outie.
Hygiene and Care Differences
Proper navel hygiene is important regardless of shape. Here is a breakdown of best practices for each type.
For Innies
- Daily Cleaning: Use a washcloth with mild soap and water to clean inside the navel during your daily shower. Make sure to rinse thoroughly. The Belly Button Biodiversity project found that innies tend to have more bacteria, so consistent cleaning is key.
- Use a Cotton Swab: For a deeper clean, especially if you notice lint, a cotton swab with soap and water can be used carefully. Avoid being too aggressive, as this can irritate the skin.
- Avoid Harsh Chemicals: Antibacterial products are generally unnecessary and can disrupt the natural bacterial balance of the skin.
For Outies
- Simple Washing: The convex shape of an outie means simple washing with soap and water is sufficient. No special tools are needed.
- Be Gentle: Be mindful of friction from tight clothing or waistbands that could cause irritation.
- Monitor for Change: While rare, any sudden change in shape or appearance should be monitored, as it could indicate an underlying issue like a hernia.
Beyond Health: Aesthetics and Perceptions
For many, the debate over innies versus outies is purely aesthetic. Fashion trends, especially those involving midriff-baring tops, can influence how people feel about their navels. Some may feel self-conscious about their outie, while others embrace it as a unique part of their body. Some people, for cosmetic reasons, choose to undergo a plastic surgery procedure called umbilicoplasty to change their belly button's appearance.
Innie vs. Outie: At a Glance
| Feature | Innie | Outie |
|---|---|---|
| Prevalence | Very common (approx. 90%) | Less common (approx. 10%) |
| Formation | Normal healing and retraction of the umbilical cord scar | Normal variation, sometimes due to a minor umbilical hernia |
| Hygiene | Prone to collecting lint, debris, and bacteria | Less likely to collect debris due to its outward shape |
| Health Implications | No specific health concerns | No specific health concerns, but can be a sign of a rare hernia |
| Aesthetics | Often considered the standard or more conventionally attractive shape | Perception varies; some feel self-conscious, others see it as unique |
When to Seek Medical Advice
While most belly button concerns are cosmetic, there are times when medical advice should be sought. These include:
- Your belly button suddenly changes from an innie to an outie.
- You experience pain, redness, or swelling around the navel.
- There is discharge, pus, or a foul odor.
- You notice a lump or bulge that you can't push back in.
- You are experiencing persistent itchiness or skin irritation.
Conclusion
Ultimately, there is no definitive answer to the question, Are Innie or Outie belly buttons better? From a health perspective, both are normal variations of human anatomy. The key difference lies in the minor hygiene considerations—innies require a bit more attention to stay clean, while outies are generally easier to maintain. Any aesthetic preferences are personal and subjective. Embracing your body's natural variations is a healthy perspective to maintain, knowing that neither shape provides any inherent advantage over the other. For more detailed information on belly button formation, you can consult an authoritative source like Healthline.
