Is it possible to be born without a navel?

It is possible, although very rare, to be born without a navel. This condition, known as umbilical agenesis, occurs when the umbilical cord fails to develop properly during fetal development. As a result, the baby is born without a visible navel or belly button.

Umbilical agenesis is usually not associated with any other health problems and does not require any treatment. However, it can be a sign of an underlying medical condition, such as an omphalocele (a defect in the abdominal wall that allows the intestines to protrude through the navel) or gastroschisis (a rare condition in which the intestines develop outside of the body). In these cases, treatment may be necessary.