Understanding the Impact of Pregnancy on Your Belly Button

It is normal for the navel to protrude outwards during pregnancy. Even if the woman's navel was normal or inwards before pregnancy, the navel can come outwards due to the growth of the stomach during pregnancy. Usually this is temporary and after delivery the navel comes back to its normal size. It is just important to keep in mind that the navel protruding outwards is not umbilical hernia. The following types of symptoms can be seen in case of umbilical hernia -

• A soft lump can be felt around the navel, which often appears more prominent while lying down.
• There may be mild pain around the navel.
• The pain may increase while bending, sneezing or coughing.

If you feel anything like this, you should immediately inform your doctor.

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This is another type of change in the navel. As the pregnant woman's belly expands with the baby, it can be seen that the pregnant woman's navel has become flat and may look a little stretched. This is normal and after the birth of the baby, the navel comes back to its normal shape.

(Read more - How to reduce pregnancy belly after delivery)

Itching of the skin around the navel is common during pregnancy. As the skin stretches, it can cause irritation, sensitivity and itching. This is usually temporary and normal. Keep your skin clean with soap and water and apply lotion or cream after asking the doctor for some relief. If the problem is severe and the itching problem is not only on the navel but also on the skin of the stomach and waist, then it is better to consult a doctor about this.

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Some pregnant women may feel pain inside the navel. This may be due to stretching of the skin of the stomach or may be a muscle problem. Always report the pain to your doctor. In most cases it is temporary, as the stomach stretches. If the woman experiences sharp pain, which feels like pricking and does not go away even after a minute, then consult your doctor immediately. 

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