When you’re pregnant, your body goes through a lot of changes. Some of them are well-known, such as nausea and vomiting (morning sickness), or itchy skin, and others are less familiar, like a higher body temperature and increased sweat production.
How can I get rid of body odor during pregnancy?
Body odor during pregnancy can be a real pain, especially if you’re used to smelling fresh and clean. While odors aren’t necessarily a health issue, they can be embarrassing.
The odour starts as early as the first trimester and can continue into your breastfeeding period. If you’re looking for a way to deal with this, there are some treatments that can help.
1. Hormone Changes
There are many hormones that affect your odour, including progesterone and Estradiol. During pregnancy, these hormones are released more often than they normally do. This can lead to strong odors in your armpits and genitals.
2. Sweat Glands Are Hyperactive
As a result of the extra weight and increased blood flow, your sweat glands get more active and produce odor-causing bacteria.
3. Foods You Eat Can Cause Bad Breath and Body Odor
Your diet can make you smell worse during pregnancy, especially if you’re eating more rich or flavorful foods than usual. These include certain cruciferous vegetables, such as broccoli and brussels sprouts, red meat, seafood, and garlic.
4. Other Side Effects
The changes that occur during your pregnancy can be hard to handle, but don’t worry — your body is working overtime to prepare for the arrival of your new baby. If you’re concerned about a side effect, be sure to speak with your doctor or OB/GYN, as they may have an explanation for your symptoms.