Anatomy of the Belly Button
The belly button plays an important role in anatomy and its sensitivity is due to the region’s proximity to nerve endings. The area around the belly button contains a high concentration of nerve endings which make it highly sensitive. The belly button is also connected to several abdominal muscles and organs, creating a complex network of nerves.
In this article, we will discuss the anatomy of the belly button and how its sensitivity can vary from person to person.
Location of the Belly Button
The location of the belly button is determined by an abdominal operation called an umbilical hernia in which the umbilical cord is inserted. The umbilicus, or belly button, is located at the point where the umbilical cord enters the abdomen. This area of insertion is known as the linea alba, and runs across your lower abdomen from hip to hip. It’s also sometimes called a navel.
This line marks one end of your abdominal muscles and gives your skin its distinctive arch shape. In this arch, you can find a number of nerves that give you sensation beneath your skin – which is why it’s often referred to as a “sensitive spot”. These nerves intersect at either side of your umbilicus, making it especially sensitive to touch and pressure when compared with other spots on our bodies.
Anatomical Structure of the Belly Button
The belly button is a highly sensitive area with unique anatomical structure, where the umbilical cord was attached to the developing fetus in the uterus. It is located at the center of the abdomen, just above the pubic symphysis, and is usually an indentation filled with tissue and skin.
The flap of skin surrounding the belly button is termed as umbilicus or umbilical ring, which typically resembles a circle or slit in shape. This area contains delicate tissue, small muscles and glands that secrete oils to lubricate and moisten the surface. The navel also supports a number of nerves that make it particularly sensitive to touch.
In addition to this, inside of your navel are various ligaments that hold your abdominal walls together by joining them from side to side. These ligaments create creases that you can see when you look up close at your bellybutton from different angles. Your ovaries may also be visible through an opening upon close inspection when viewed upside down.
The actual opening through which your umbilical cord once passed has closed up by now. This is made up of muscle fibers and fascia tissue which helps on binding it tightly together as well as providing support for surrounding skin structure. The formation of these muscle fibers plays an important role in protecting your internal organs from external threats such as bacteria or other infections entering into your body through your abdomen.
Reasons for the Sensitivity of the Belly Button
The belly button is a sensitive area of the body due to the combination of the skin and the underlying muscles and organs. There are several reasons why the belly button is so sensitive, from its proximity to nerve endings, to its connection with the lymphatic system.
In this article, we will explore why the belly button is so sensitive, and what makes it special:
Nerve Endings
The belly button is a sensitive area of our body, due to the presence of nerve endings located around the navel. Nerve endings are important for sensing both pleasant and unpleasant sensations, such as heat, cold, touch, pressure and pain.
The navel contains many types of nerve endings – mainly free nerve endings and Meissner’s corpuscles – that can transmit signals to the brain when they come in contact with something external.
These sensory nerves send signals to the brain which are then interpreted into something that we recognize as ‘feeling’. The nerve endings in our belly button transmit important information about temperature and pressure within an inch or so of our skin surface. This helps us discern between pleasant touches (such as light rubbing) or unpleasant sensations like pricking or pinching.
In addition to these sensory stimuli, most people have some amount of pain receptors around the navel area. These serve as part of our body’s protective alarm system which can alert us if we come in contact with something potentially dangerous or painful.
Hormonal Changes
Hormonal changes in the body can be one of the main causes of sensitivity around the belly button area, especially in women. At different points in a woman’s monthly cycle, their hormones fluctuate. These fluctuations, along with other physical symptoms such as fatigue, can also cause sensitivity around the belly button. Experiencing this type of sensitive skin is entirely normal and should pass as soon as hormone levels return to normal.
Furthermore, during pregnancy hormonal changes are even more pronounced. Due to these fluctuations, pregnant women often find that their belly button area is highly sensitive and that their nipples become tender during pregnancy too. This is completely normal during pregnancy and should not be a cause for concern unless accompanied by any other side effects or pain. After the baby is born and hormone levels return to normal pre-pregnancy levels, this will generally ease off as well.
Skin Type
The skin around the belly button is particularly sensitive for several reasons. Firstly, the naval area is a pocket of thin skin that is prone to wrinkles due to its location and natural movement of your body during activities. It also contains more nerve endings than other areas because it marks the spot of a former physical connection between you and your mother, which causes it to be more sensitive. Finally, bacteria can easily accumulate in the deep nooks of the navel and cause an uncomfortable secretion that can irritate the nerves around it.
All these factors contribute to why your belly button might be painful or extra sensitive.
Common Causes of Belly Button Sensitivity
The belly button is a sensitive area of the body and can be susceptible to various issues. It is important to understand the common causes of belly button sensitivity so you can take steps to help alleviate the symptoms.
This article will discuss the most common causes of belly button sensitivity and how to treat them:
Bacterial Infections
Bacterial infections are a common cause of belly button sensitivity. Bacteria, either from poor hygiene or dirt, can make its way inside the navel. This can lead to irritation and inflammation, resulting in discomfort and redness in the area. It’s usually accompanied by a mild to strong odor. In some cases, swelling of the area may be seen as well.
To prevent bacterial infections around the navel, it is important to keep this area clean by washing with soap and water daily. It is also important to avoid allowing bacteria-containing dirt and debris inside the belly button when engaging in activities such as swimming or showering. If you notice any signs of infection—such as redness, discharge or odor—it is best to visit your doctor for treatment with antibiotics.
Allergies
One of the most common causes of belly button sensitivity is allergies. From certain fabrics or skin care products, to foods and medications, there are many potential allergens that can cause itching, burning and other symptoms of discomfort.
If you think you may be exhibiting an allergic reaction in your belly button area, discontinue use of any products that could be causing the reaction right away. If the symptoms persist, contact your doctor for testing to identify the allergen and further treatment recommendations.
Injury
Injury to the region around the belly button can cause it to be sensitive. Common causes of an injured area are:
- wound or injury due to accident;
- ill-fitting clothes, jewelry or piercings located near the sensitive area;
- certain medical conditions such as skin diseases like eczema and psoriasis; and
- infections such as bacterial and fungal infections, scabies, candidiasis, ringworm or herpes.
In some cases, even extreme body changes due to childbirth could result in changes in sensitivity in and around the belly button. It is very important for individuals to seek medical attention for any illness or infection so symptoms can be properly diagnosed and treated promptly.
Treating Belly Button Sensitivity
Belly button sensitivity is a common issue that can occur due to a variety of reasons. It can be irritating, uncomfortable and even painful at times. It can be caused by irritants such as sweat, soap or lotion, or by skin conditions like eczema or psoriasis.
In this article, we’ll look at the causes and treatments for belly button sensitivity and explore different ways to help reduce discomfort.
Cleaning the Belly Button
Cleaning your belly button can be important for keeping it from becoming sensitive. It’s important to take care of belly button piercing sites or infected areas, as well as for general hygiene purposes. When cleaning the belly button area, use only a very mild soap and water solution in order to avoid any further irritation or infection.
To properly clean your belly button, follow these steps:
- Soak a cotton ball in lukewarm water with a mild soap that is free of dyes, fragrances and chemicals (sometimes called “sensitive skin formula”), such as baby detergent. Apply this cotton ball to the eyelid area and lightly massage in circular motions for about 30 seconds
- Rinse the entire stomach area using lukewarm water
- Dry the stomach area off using a soft towel or allow it to air dry before dressing
- Replace clothing promptly after showering and remove constricting clothing or jewelry if any is present
- Wear loose-fitting clothes throughout the day if sensitivity persists
- Wash hands with warm water and soap pre- and post-belly button cleaning
- Avoid vigorous rubbing or scrubbing of the cleaned area as over time this can lead to skin irritation that can cause sensitivity
- Refrain from applying strong antiseptics to prevent irritating sensitive skin
Applying Antibacterial Cream
If you experience discomfort and excessive sensitivity in your belly button, it is important to clean the area daily using a mild soap solution. Once it has been dried carefully with a towel, applying an antibacterial cream can help promote healing and prevent infection of the area.
It is best to use creams with ingredients such as mupirocin or bacitracin that are known to kill bacteria. Avoid lotions and creams that have irritating fragrances or dyes which could further sensitize the area. It is also important to replace bandages at least every 24 hours in order for them not to become soggy and promote bacterial growth over time.
Apart from routine cleaning, it may be beneficial to apply a thin layer of hydrocortisone cream over the area a few times each day to help decrease inflammation and swelling of the belly button piercing site. It could also provide relief against itching or burning sensations due to being sensitive. It is best not too leave this cream on your skin overnight or longer than recommended by your doctor as it may increase risk of secondary infection over time from prolonged use.
Taking Antihistamines
If your belly button sensitivity is caused by an overreacting immune system, this can be treated with antihistamines. These are available as tablets, nasal sprays and eye drops. Some antihistamines are sedating, meaning they make you feel drowsy, while others are non-sedating. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist about the best option for you.
Additionally, there are topical creams and lotions that contain antihistamines that may help to reduce any swelling or irritation in the area of your belly button. Speak with a local doctor or pharmacist to discuss the best options for you:
- Tablets
- Nasal sprays
- Eye drops
- Topical creams and lotions
Prevention of Belly Button Sensitivity
Belly buttons are highly sensitive for most people and can cause a lot of discomfort if not properly cared for. There are a few simple steps you can take to prevent your belly button from becoming overly sensitive. From using gentle cleaners like soaps and shampoos to keeping the belly button area dry, there are many things that can be done to prevent belly button sensitivity.
Let’s take a look at some of the best methods for prevention:
Keep the Belly Button Clean
Keeping the belly button clean is often the most effective way to prevent belly button sensitivity. This can be done by simply washing the area with warm water and mild soap once a day. Make sure to gently swipe around the inside of the belly button, as dirt can build up there and cause discomfort.
To improve hygiene, it might also be helpful to invest in a curved ear cleaning tool that some people use for their ears or nose. This tool can make it easier to clean the deeper parts of your navel for an even more comprehensive cleanse.
Avoid Wearing Tight Clothing
To prevent belly button sensitivity, it is important to avoid wearing tight clothing. Tight clothing can constrict the area and cause an increase in discomfort. For optimal comfort and prevention of excessive rubbing and chafing, you should opt for clothing with plenty of room around the midsection. This includes shirts, pants, shorts, swimsuits, and any other items of clothing that may come in contact with the belly button region.
In addition to helping reduce unwanted skin friction when you wear your garments, going for looser-fitting options with comfortable fabrics helps reduce belly button sensitivity. Look for breathable materials like cotton or linen; they will allow air to circulate more freely around your stomach area and thus create less pressure on your sensitive skin. Similarly, try wearing layers so that if you feel overheated during activity or throughout the day you can easily adjust your wardrobe to become cooler without having to deal with unpleasant rubbing against delicate areas.
Wear Breathable Clothing
It is important to wear breathable clothing to prevent belly button sensitivity. Breathable fabrics such as cotton and linen allow air circulation and do not trap moisture near the skin of your belly button. This can help minimize irritation around the area and reduce the symptoms of sensitivity you may be experiencing.
You should also consider wearing loose-fitting clothes, as tight fitting garments have been known to aggravate the area around your navel, leading to increased sensitivity. Additionally, materials such as spandex, lace and other synthetics can often cause an allergic reaction in some people that can result in abdominal discomfort or sensitivity. In general, avoid these types of fabric when selecting what to wear on a daily basis.