Will Your Baby Have an Innie or an Outie?
Understand why some babies have innies or outies, how to care for the umbilical stump, when an outie is an umbilical hernia and what to expect.
One of the small but persistent curiosities in pregnancy is what your baby’s belly button will look like. Most newborns have an "innie", but some have an "outie" - and parents often wonder which is more likely and whether it matters. This guide explains what a belly button is, why shapes differ, how to care for the umbilical stump, and when to get medical advice.
What is a belly button?
The belly button is the scar left where the umbilical cord attached the baby to the placenta in the womb. The cord delivered oxygen and nutrients and was clamped and cut after birth. What remains is the umbilical stump, which dries and falls off to leave the belly button.
Innies and outies — what’s the difference?
An "innie" is a small dimple in the tummy. It is the common shape - most people have an innie. An "outie" is a slight protrusion of scar tissue above the surface of the stomach. Both are usually just cosmetic differences rather than a sign of a problem.
What determines the shape?
The shape is set by how the umbilical cord attached to the baby’s abdominal wall in utero. It is not caused by how the cord is clamped, how you care for the stump, or simple postnatal handling. An outie can occur when extra skin grows around the cord site during development.
Common conditions behind an outie
Most outies are harmless, but a few specific, treatable conditions can cause a protruding belly button.
- Umbilical hernia – a small piece of intestine or lining pushes through a gap in the abdominal wall. It often becomes more visible when the baby cries or strains and many resolve without surgery by age 4–5.
- Umbilical granuloma – a small bit of excess tissue can form at the stump site. It usually isn’t painful and can be treated by a paediatrician if needed.
- Infection – redness, swelling or a foul smell around the stump can indicate infection and should be checked by a clinician.
How to care for the umbilical stump
Follow simple "dry cord care" until the stump falls off:
- Keep the stump dry and exposed to air as much as possible.
- Give sponge baths rather than submerging the baby until the stump has separated.
- Clean gently with plain soap and water if needed and let it air dry — avoid using alcohol routinely.
- Fold the top of the nappy down so it doesn’t rub the stump and cause irritation.
Do not pull the stump off. A small amount of bleeding or crusting is normal while it heals.
When will the stump fall off?
The umbilical stump usually falls off within two weeks of birth. If it remains after 3-4 weeks, mention it at your baby’s check-up or contact your GP or health visitor for advice.
Will the belly button change over time?
Belly buttons can change. An umbilical hernia may correct itself as the child grows, turning an outie into an innie. Belly buttons can also change with pregnancy or weight changes later in life. Most changes are normal, but any new or painful protrusion should be assessed.
When to see a doctor
Contact your GP, health visitor or paediatrician if you notice:
- Redness, swelling, warmth or a smelly discharge around the stump
- A hard or growing lump at the belly button that does not flatten when your baby is relaxed
- Persistent bleeding from the stump after minor scabbing
- Any other worrying signs or if you are unsure
If you are concerned about infection, a growing lump or any worrying signs, contact NHS 111 or your GP or health visitor for advice. This article provides general information and is not a substitute for a face to face assessment by a clinician.
Takeaway
The vast majority of babies will have an innie and most outies are harmless. Good dry cord care, gentle observation and routine checks will keep the area healthy. If you spot signs of infection or a growing lump, seek medical advice — otherwise, your baby’s belly button is simply another small and adorable feature to enjoy.
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