Yes, some babies are indeed born without a belly button.
While most babies have a belly button, which is a scar resulting from the umbilical cord being cut, there are rare medical conditions where a baby might not develop a typical belly button. One such condition is an omphalocele.
Omphalocele: A Cause of Missing Belly Buttons
According to the provided reference, babies with omphalocele are born without a belly button. This condition occurs when the intestines or other abdominal organs protrude through a hole in the abdomen where the belly button would normally form. In these cases, instead of the typical belly button, there's a noticeable opening where organs can be seen.
What is an Omphalocele?
An omphalocele is a birth defect that happens when the abdominal organs of the fetus don't fully develop within the abdomen during pregnancy. Instead, they protrude through an opening, usually located where the belly button would be. The protruding organs are often covered by a thin, transparent sac.
Why Does this Happen?
The exact causes of omphalocele aren't always clear. However, factors such as genetics and certain environmental influences may play a role. This means that a baby with omphalocele is born with a hole or opening where the belly button would usually be. Instead of a belly button, they may have a protruding sac, often containing organs like the intestines.
It is important to note, however, that in most cases, the baby appears to have a belly button, even if it's not a 'real' one in the traditional sense. It is a scar formed after the umbilical cord is cut. As noted in the reference, it's "sort of crinkly and creates the appearance of a belly button.”
Therefore, while most babies have a belly button, babies with omphalocele are indeed born without one, having a different type of structure or opening in that area.
