Any signs or symptoms around the navel require immediate medical attention.

However, if the umbilical discharge has an odor, you should see a doctor immediately. The most common cause is bacterial or fungal infection of the navel. This is a consequence of poor hygiene, excessive sweating, or the navel being damp for a long time. Other causes of navel infection include navel piercings, cysts, and skin problems such as eczema and psoriasis.

A study published in the Journal of Clinical Medicine found that people with diabetes who do not control their blood sugar well are particularly susceptible to fungal infections, such as Candida. This fungal infection can also occur around the navel.

Bacteria and fungi thrive in the dark, moist environment of the navel. If the navel becomes infected, the patient will notice redness or swelling in the navel area. The discharge will look like pus, causing the navel to have a foul odor. If it's a yeast infection, the navel will be itchy.

In the case of a fungal infection, people can use over-the-counter antifungal creams. If it's a bacterial infection, antibiotics are needed. If symptoms persist, you should see a doctor, especially if you have diabetes, a weakened immune system, a sore navel, or a fever.

Additionally, some types of umbilical infections are caused by other factors. For example, if you've recently had a hernia or laparoscopy, your navel may become infected if there's a nearby incision. This discharge may look like pus, be yellowish-green or brown, have an unpleasant odor, and may be accompanied by redness, swelling, bleeding, fever, and chills.

A study published in the journal PLoS ONE found that the navel is home to approximately 2,300 species of bacteria. Therefore, regular navel hygiene is necessary. People can gently clean their navels with soap and water, then dry them to prevent moisture buildup, according to Medical News Today (UK).