Does your belly button smell foul? Here’s how to get rid of the stink

The belly button is largely ignored when it comes to maintaining hygiene. Did you know that your navel can become a breeding ground for dirt, germs, bacteria, and fungus, which can result in infection? Yes, your navel is prone to infection, and that can lead to foul smell and discharge.

Generally, dirt and germs in the belly button don’t do any major harm to you or your health, but the bacteria’s ability to trigger an infection can be a bit problematic to handle, especially if it smells. Belly button stink can be an embarrassing problem, and if it’s not treated, it can increase your discomfort and uneasiness in your navel over time.

If you have a smelly belly button and the odour doesn’t go away with regular washing, check for signs of an infection.

• Redness around the belly button
• Itching and swelling
• Slight pain
• Foul smelling discharge

If you are experiencing these signs and symptoms, you may have a navel infection.

Dr Manjul Aggarwal, Senior Consultant, Dermatology, Fortis Hospital, Shalimar Bagh, Delhi, says that like other parts of the body, the belly button can gather bacteria or fungi over time. This may trigger an infection, creating a foul smell in the belly button.”

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Causes of belly button smell:

1. Cysts are small lumps underneath the skin. These can cause a funky smell in your navel. If you have a belly button cyst you may also experience red, inflamed, tender, and soreness around your belly button.
2. Candida is a yeast infection that can cause a rash in and around the area along with the smell.
3. Piercing may also cause infection which can lead to a smell.

How to get rid of the belly button smell?

The simplest way to reduce the odour from your belly button is by maintaining proper daily hygiene. Washing the belly button at least once a day during bath with soap prevents a build-up of the dead skin, sweat, and oils that the body produces naturally.

Moreover, follow these tips:

• Put a little bit of antibacterial soap on a washcloth when using it in the shower.
• Using your index finger underneath the washcloth, gently wash the inside of the belly button.
• After the shower, pat your belly button dry.
• Showering or bathing daily can also help prevent skin problems and unpleasant odors.
• Also, avoid wearing tight nylon clothes as sweat and dirt can build up under clothes that cling to the skin. Once the belly button is cleaned, the smell should improve.

However, consulting a doctor is a must if there is discharge from the belly button as it could be a sign of infection or any other serious problem, says Dr Aggarwal.