What body part is above the belly button? An in-depth anatomical guide

September 29, 2025 •

4 min read

Did you know that the upper abdomen is home to some of your most vital organs? Understanding what body part is above the belly button is fundamental to comprehending your internal landscape, especially when diagnosing potential health issues.

Quick Summary

The area above the belly button is known as the upper abdomen, housing key organs such as the stomach, liver, gallbladder, pancreas, and spleen. This region is a central hub for digestion and metabolism, protected by the lower ribcage and supported by various muscles and tissues.

Key Points

Upper Abdominal Anatomy: The area above the belly button, known as the upper abdomen, contains numerous vital organs and is a key region for digestive health.
Key Organs Included: Critical organs in this area are the stomach, liver, gallbladder, pancreas, and spleen, all working together for digestion and other metabolic functions.
Protection: The upper abdominal organs are primarily protected by the lower ribcage and a network of muscles, including the diaphragm and linea alba.
Epigastric Region: The specific region directly above the belly button is called the epigastric region, which houses the stomach and parts of the liver and pancreas.
Diagnostic Landmark: The belly button serves as a central landmark for healthcare providers when dividing the abdomen into quadrants or regions to diagnose the source of pain or other issues.
Pain Considerations: Pain above the belly button can be caused by problems with the stomach, gallbladder, pancreas, or other organs and should be evaluated by a healthcare professional.

The Anatomy of the Upper Abdomen: A Closer Look

Your belly button, or navel, serves as an important anatomical landmark, dividing the abdomen into an upper and lower region. The area directly above it, known as the epigastric and hypochondriac regions, contains a complex network of organs, muscles, and connective tissues that are crucial for your body's daily functions.

Key Organs Found Above the Navel

Multiple vital organs are situated in the upper abdominal area. Their precise locations and functions are key to overall health.

Stomach: This muscular, J-shaped organ is positioned primarily in the upper-left part of the abdomen. Its main job is to break down food using acids and enzymes, preparing it for further digestion in the small intestine.
Liver: The liver, your largest internal organ, occupies the upper-right quadrant of the abdomen, extending into the epigastric region. It's essential for detoxification, protein synthesis, and producing biochemicals necessary for digestion.
Gallbladder: Tucked underneath the liver, the gallbladder stores and concentrates bile produced by the liver. Bile is released into the small intestine to help digest fats.
Pancreas: Located behind the stomach, the pancreas plays a dual role in both the digestive and endocrine systems. It secretes enzymes that aid digestion and hormones like insulin and glucagon, which regulate blood sugar.
Spleen: The spleen is an organ of the lymphatic system, located in the upper-left abdomen. Its primary role is to filter blood, recycle old red blood cells, and store a reserve of blood.

Supporting Structures and Muscles

Beyond the major organs, the upper abdominal area is composed of supportive structures that protect and facilitate the movement of these organs.

Diaphragm: A large, dome-shaped muscle located at the base of the chest cavity. It separates the thoracic cavity (containing the heart and lungs) from the abdominal cavity. The diaphragm's contraction and relaxation are vital for breathing.
Linea Alba: This fibrous band of connective tissue runs down the midline of the abdomen, from the sternum to the pubic bone. It separates the rectus abdominis muscles (the "six-pack" muscles).
Ribcage: The lower part of the ribcage provides a bony structure that offers significant protection for the liver, spleen, and part of the stomach.

Anatomical Quadrants and Regions

For medical and diagnostic purposes, the abdomen is often divided into nine regions or four quadrants. The belly button sits at the center of the umbilical region. The regions above it are:

Epigastric Region: Located just above the belly button and below the breastbone. It houses the majority of the stomach, parts of the liver, pancreas, and duodenum.
Right Hypochondriac Region: On the right side, under the ribcage. Contains the right lobe of the liver, the gallbladder, and part of the right kidney.
Left Hypochondriac Region: On the left side, under the ribcage. Houses the spleen, part of the stomach, and the tail of the pancreas.

Potential Health Concerns in the Upper Abdomen

Pain or discomfort in the region above the belly button can be indicative of several health conditions related to the organs in that area. For example, stomach ulcers can cause a burning sensation in the epigastric region, while issues with the gallbladder can cause pain in the right hypochondriac area. Pancreatitis often presents with severe, radiating pain in the upper abdomen. It is important to note that pain in this area can also be referred from other parts of the body, so a proper medical evaluation is essential for accurate diagnosis. It is always recommended to seek professional medical advice if you experience persistent or severe pain.

A Comparison of Abdominal Organs: Upper vs. Lower

Understanding the distinction between organs above and below the navel can help provide clarity on potential issues.


Feature	Upper Abdomen	Lower Abdomen
Key Organs	Stomach, Liver, Gallbladder, Pancreas, Spleen	Appendix, Bladder, Intestines, Reproductive organs
Primary Function	Digestion, Metabolism, Filtration	Waste elimination, Reproduction, Water absorption
Protection	Ribcage, Muscle wall	Muscle wall, Pelvic bone
Common Pain Source	Stomach ulcers, Gallstones, Pancreatitis	Appendicitis, UTIs, Constipation

Conclusion: A Quick Summary

In conclusion, the area above your belly button, known as the upper abdomen, is a bustling center of activity that supports your digestive and metabolic processes. It’s protected by the ribcage and made up of essential organs like the stomach, liver, pancreas, and spleen, along with a network of muscles and tissues. Recognizing this intricate system provides a deeper understanding of your body and helps in pinpointing the source of any potential health concerns. To learn more about human anatomy, consider visiting a reputable resource such as the National Cancer Institute's guide to abdominal anatomy. Always consult a healthcare professional for specific medical advice.

Frequently Asked Questions

The primary organ in the center of the upper abdomen, specifically in the epigastric region, is the stomach. Parts of the liver and pancreas are also located in this central area, just above the belly button.

While you can sometimes feel certain structures, like the border of your ribcage, you generally cannot feel the individual organs themselves. If you feel a distinct mass or experience pain, it's a good idea to consult a doctor.

Pain above the belly button can be caused by many conditions. It can range from the burning sensation of a stomach ulcer to the radiating pain of pancreatitis or gallstones. It's crucial to consult a healthcare provider for an accurate diagnosis.

Yes, the heart is located within the chest cavity, or thoracic cavity, which is superior to (above) the abdominal cavity where the belly button is located. The diaphragm separates these two cavities.

The epigastric region is the specific area of the abdomen located directly above the belly button and below the sternum (breastbone). It's a common site for pain related to stomach issues.

The linea alba, or "white line," is a fibrous band of connective tissue that runs down the middle of your abdomen. It extends from the sternum to the pubic bone, passing directly through the center of the belly button.

No, pain above the belly button is not always serious. It can be caused by minor issues like indigestion or gas. However, persistent, severe, or worsening pain should be medically evaluated to rule out more serious conditions.