Belly button pain during pregnancy occurs as the trimesters progress. This is because the abdomen tries to accommodate the growing fetus. However, not many women experience this pain near the navel. Also, the pain may or may not appear in each pregnancy. The good news is that, like the other pregnancy symptoms, even this belly button pain vanishes after delivery. Read on to know the reasons behind belly button pain in pregnancy, signs to watch out for, and home remedies to help soothe the pain.
Causes Of Belly Button Pain In Pregnancy
Belly button pain can be felt anytime in the pregnancy due to various body changes. However, most women may experience belly pain from the second trimester as the baby begins to grow significantly from this time. Women with inward dipping (innies) and outward dipping (outies) of the belly button may feel this pain. Common causes of belly button pain in pregnancy may include (1) (2): There may be several general causes of belly button pain not specific to pregnancy. In case of severe belly button pain, consult your gynecologist or physician immediately. Dr. Robyn Horsager-Boehrer, Chief of Obstetrics and Gynecology at UT Southwestern Medical Center’s William P. Clements Jr. University Hospital, says, “Although there is no satisfying explanation for exact causes of belly button pain during pregnancy, some pregnant mothers may experience the pain even with the touch of ultrasound transducer around the belly button.” “The belly button has a key role in fetal life. But it is not connected to anything in adults. This clarifies common misconceptions regarding belly buttons such as it is tugging abdomen to the navel or connected directly to uterus, placenta, or baby’s belly button.”, adds Dr. Horsager-Boehrer.
Home Remedies For Belly Button Pain During Pregnancy
You may try the following homecare measures if body changes of pregnancy cause belly button pain.
Sleep on your side or the belly-up if possible. Lying on your back can be difficult in pregnancy, so sleeping on the side can be more comfortable.
Wear loose, lightweight cotton clothing to reduce friction. Use bandages over the belly button to avoid friction from clothing. You may also try maternal dresses rather than pants. Use a belly band or wraps (maternity support belts) that support your abs, lower back, and hips. Apply cocoa butter or moisturizer creams to the belly area to reduce skin irritation and itching. Try in-water activities since it relieves the weight of the belly and back. If navel piercing is causing discomfort, use a piece of navel jewelry made of surgical stainless steel that does not irritate the skin and expands, or you may remove the piercing during the pregnancy. Use a lukewarm compress over the belly button to reduce pain.
Keep the belly area clean and dry.
These remedies may help relieve belly button pain due to pregnancy body changes. However, belly button pain due to other conditions may require medical care.
When To See A Doctor
Mild pain can be normal in most women. You may seek immediate medical care if lower abdominal or belly pain is associated with vaginal bleeding, uterine contractions, or fever. These symptoms may indicate severe problems such as preterm labor, placental abruption, or infections (5). All pregnant mothers with hernias and other serious conditions causing belly button pain need medical attention. Doctors may recommend special belly bands or surgery for umbilical hernia depending on the severity, and this may often resolve naturally after childbirth. However, if the hernia persists even after childbirth, surgical treatment is recommended. Intestinal infections may also require medical care and often antibiotic treatment, depending on the causes. Pain medications are prescribed for severe cases of belly button pain due to infections or hernias. You may also inform the obstetrician if the belly button pain is increasing over time.
