Navel changes to diet and exercise, unexpected change in shape may be the result of ascites. In addition to change in shape being a possible side effect from ascites and umbilical hernias, the navel can be involved in umbilical sinus or fistula, which in rare cases can lead to menstrual or fecal discharge from the navel. Menstrual discharge from the umbilicus is a rare disorder associated with umbilical endometriosis. To minimize scarring, the navel is a recommended site of incision for various surgeries, including transgastric appendicectomy, gall bladder surgery, and the umbilicoplasty procedure itself. Abdominal thrusts is a first aid method
Cultural views on the navel as a paste to the navel as a remedy for stomach aches. During difficulties in delivery, a betel leaf is placed on the woman's navel, which is believed to be under a spell. Laying wormwood on the female navel or spreading a paste of reindeer lichen on the navel were considered by Russian women to make the delivery of a child fast and painless. In the Chinese art of acupuncture, the navel is sometimes referred to as 神阙 ("shénquè", roughly translating to divine imperfection or mark of the ancestors). Often, the navel is used as a moxibustion point. However, the