A navel, also known as the umbilicus or belly button, is the scar left on the abdomen after the umbilical cord is cut following birth. It's a characteristic feature of placental mammals, marking the former attachment point of the umbilical cord which nourished the fetus during pregnancy.
Understanding the Navel
The navel's appearance varies significantly between individuals. It can be:
- Protruding: Sticking outwards.
- Flat: Lying flush with the abdomen.
- Hollowed: Indented inwards.
While generally more noticeable in humans, all placental mammals possess a navel. Its presence is a fundamental indicator of placental development.
The umbilical cord, connected to the navel, was crucial for fetal development, providing oxygen and nutrients from the mother while removing waste products. Once the baby is born and the cord is severed, the remaining portion of the cord dries up and falls off, leaving behind the navel scar.
Clinical Significance
In a clinical setting, the navel's location serves as an anatomical landmark, useful for:
- Identifying abdominal regions.
- Performing abdominal surgeries.
- Assessing abdominal development.
While generally harmless, certain navel conditions can sometimes occur, requiring medical attention.
