Our navel–or belly button, whatever you prefer to call it–is a permanent marker on our abdomen that indicates the point where our umbilical cord connected us to our mother. It serves as an enduring reminder of life’s beginnings, and stands as a poignant symbol of each person’s individual journey through this world.
Aside from being an identifier of a person, this region can be sexually arousing for some. It has also been utilized in various ancient healing practices such as cupping. Similarly, to other areas of the body, it is susceptible to dirt and bacteria buildup like a navel stone.
So what are navel stones? Read more as we’ll tackle more of the details of this topic in today’s article.
Why Humans Have Navels
Every human being has a navel because it is the remaining imprint of an umbilical cord that connected us to our mothers while in utero. As we developed inside her womb, nourishment and oxygen were transferred from her body to ours through this umbilicus—a physical bond between them both.
After childbirth, the umbilical cord is cut and what remains in its place is a small hollow known as the navel or belly button. This site retains its shape for a lifetime, not only serving as an anatomical landmark but also reminding us of our initial bond with our mothers. Moreover, it can be viewed as both part of ourselves and signifying our connection to family lineages going back thousands of years.
So What Is A Navel Stone
A navel stone, or also known as omphalolith(s), is a tiny accumulation of hardened skin oils which form in the belly button around sweat glands and hair follicles. These pimple-like bumps can vary from a few millimeters to several centimeters in size and usually appear white or yellowish. But some may be black due to the sebum – natural oil created by your body’s pores – found within them.
Navel deposits are sometimes referred to as “umbilical stones,” “umboliths,” or even “ompholiths” – derived from the Greek words omphalos (navel) and litho (stone). The conglomeration of these hard, stone-like lumps usually occurs when sweat, oils, and other materials get trapped between two layers of skin in your belly button. With the right amount of heat and humidity over time, that material can harden into a lump.
Additionally, these stones have been said to emit a distinctive odor that some describe as an off-putting, fishy smell.
Is It Normal
While omphaloliths may not be dangerous, they can cause some discomfort and irritation. It is possible to wait it out if you do not want to take any action; however, these deposits will typically dissipate on their own after a few weeks. To speed up this process and reduce the buildup of these stones, over-the-counter remedies such as exfoliation scrubbers or creams are an option worth considering.
If the stones develop to a considerable extent, they can be eliminated through a straightforward medical procedure. To ensure that you are taking the right measures for your specific situation, it is best to consult with your physician and get their professional advice.
Ultimately, stones in the navel are typically nothing to worry about and can be managed with consistent personal hygiene. Nonetheless, if you experience any pain or discomfort caused by the stones, it is crucial that you seek prompt medical attention.
Despite being harmless, it is important to take precautionary measures in order to maintain a healthy navel and avoid the accumulation of these stones. A few easy steps will ensure your belly button remains free from any build-up.
Potential Risk Factors
Stones inside the navel are a rare occurrence but there are still several risk factors associated with them. Those who suffer from obesity and those over the age of 40 have an increased chance of developing these stones, as well as people with innie belly button shapes rather than outies. People with significant body hair may also be more likely to develop them since their hairs trap moisture near to the skin’s surface which can result in oil or sweat buildup that causes these stone formation.
If you feel discomfort due to a navel stone, doctors may opt for draining it with a needle or surgery if needed. However, if medical treatments are not an option for you, there is another way! You can try out healthy lifestyle changes which could reduce the formation of these stones, such as exercising regularly and maintaining your weight. Taking preventative steps like these at home will surely help in keeping those pesky stones away.
How To Remove Navel Stone On Your Own
Although it is possible to remove a navel stone at home, it is recommended that you get assistance from a medical professional in order to securely and efficiently perform the procedure.
To eliminate a navel stone, it is important to start by sanitizing the area around your bellybutton with warm water and soap. Additionally, applying an antiseptic solution will help diminish any potential risks of infection.
Subsequently, the individual should gently press a cotton swab or finger onto the navel region to push out any contents within. If pushing doesn’t work, tweezers or forceps can be used as instruments for extraction of the stone.
After the navel area has been cleared, it should be thoroughly washed with an antibacterial soap and water solution.
To safeguard the area from additional infection or irritation, be sure to cover it with a bandage. Additionally, remember that squeezing or picking at these stones can cause pain and increase the chance of an infection taking hold; if you experience any discomfort due to your navel stone, contact a doctor right away.
How To Prevent It From Coming Back
To ensure that you never experience another omphalolith, here are some essential steps to take:
To begin with, it is essential to keep the midriff area spotless. Cleanliness is not only critical for deterring deposits in the belly button, but also vital in preventing any potential infections or skin irritation. After a refreshing shower or swim, carefully clean your belly button with a cotton swab dipped in warm water and soap. Pat the area completely dry once you’re finished to avoid any bacterial growth.
Secondly, steer clear of tight-fitting apparel or accessories that may irritate your belly button area. The friction from these items can trigger an excessive sweat and sebum production, which will eventually form the uncomfortable stones. If wearing such clothes is unavoidable, be sure to change out of them as soon as you are able to afterward.
To ensure optimal hygiene, it is highly recommended to use a scrub or exfoliant on your belly button region. This will not only help eradicate any bacteria and particles that have collected in the navel, but also prevent dirt from accumulating in the area and consequently contributing to omphalolith formation. Incorporating regular exfoliation should give you satisfactory results.
Final Thoughts
It is essential to keep in mind that, while uncomfortable navel stones are usually no cause for alarm, it is important to seek medical attention if you experience any worrisome symptoms such as redness or swelling around the area; this could indicate an infection. Additionally, one should consult with a doctor prior to any procedure for extracting these stones.
To keep your navel safe, prevention is key. To reduce the possibility of oil and sweat accumulating in the belly button area, try cutting down on how much time you spend sitting daily. Wearing loose-fitting clothes can also assist in protecting against buildup that may result in more stones forming later on.