How to treat foul-smelling discharge from the navel
Disease description:
Today, while showering, I accidentally noticed a large amount of white discharge inside my navel, accompanied by an unpleasant odor. What is the treatment for a smelly navel with discharge?
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Gan Liqiang
A foul odor and white discharge from the navel are typically caused by poor personal hygiene. The navel’s anatomical location makes it particularly prone to accumulating dirt—especially after physical activity and sweating, if not cleaned promptly. Over time, accumulated debris and sebum can become colonized by bacteria, which break down fatty acids and produce an unpleasant odor—a normal physiological phenomenon. Maintaining good personal hygiene and regularly bathing and cleaning the navel usually resolves this issue. However, if redness, swelling, or pain develops around the navel, prompt medical evaluation and treatment are recommended.
