"Help, I stink!" - When you suddenly smell different

Do you know this? Pubescent teenagers who sometimes present an olfactory challenge? But many women also report that they don't smell "like they always have" during menopause, which causes them a lot of concern. However, during hormonal changes and especially after menopause, a change in scent is quite common. This can be confusing and raise questions.

Veränderter Körpergeruch: Mehr als nur Einbildung

Many women report noticing a change in body odor during menopause. Often, there's an added fear that others might notice this change as well. But where does it come from?

"My deodorant doesn't work anymore. I stink and can't stand my own smell," asks a user (51 years old).

What happens...

Due to hormonal changes, the production of these odor molecules increases, which can lead to a more intense body odor. The apocrine glands become more active. These sweat glands, primarily located in the armpits, produce not only sweat but also odor molecules.

Estrogen, the female hormone that decreases during menopause, also plays a role in water retention and blood flow to tissues. A declining estrogen level can lead to drier and thinner mucous membranes, which can further affect odor perception. Changes in pH levels and glucose levels may also play a role.

"Another theory: Does your scent really change?"

Another theory could be that it's not that you smell differently, but that you perceive your own scent differently. During menopause, your sense of smell and taste also change. So maybe not as much has changed as you think.

Stress as a scent intensifier.

Another factor that influences body odor is stress. The stress hormone cortisol stimulates sweat production and can intensify the smell. So, make sure to focus on relaxation and stress reduction!

What to do about changed body odor and taste?

Here are some tips to help you deal with the changes during menopause:

• Sensory Cells: Avoid indulgences like cigarettes and alcohol, as these can damage taste buds over time.
• Stress Reduction: Try to reduce stress and ensure more relaxation in your daily routine.
• Diet: Glucose management is key. Taking probiotics and maintaining a balanced diet with plenty of fresh fruits, vegetables, and fiber-rich foods can help regulate body odor.
• Clothing: Synthetic fabrics like polyester and silk can amplify unpleasant odors. Opt for breathable clothing made from natural materials like cotton or specialized activewear.
• Deodorant: Men’s deodorants are often formulated to be stronger than women’s. Feel free to try out different products to find the one that works best for you.
• Hygiene: Wash your underarms thoroughly with water and soap, especially in the evening before going to bed.

Wenn du anders im Intimbereich riechst

An intense odor in the intimate area, which suddenly becomes much stronger than usual, can, of course, be a sign of an infection or another issue. However, it is usually accompanied by one or more of the symptoms listed above. The most common cause is bacterial vaginosis. If you experience signs of an infection (such as burning, irritation, or excessive discharge), there is no "right" or "wrong" vaginal odor. If you're in doubt, it’s best to speak with your doctor.

Tip: Affordable rapid tests are available at pharmacies and even drugstores now!
Learn more about vaginal microbiome and floral here.

Exchange is important!

Many women experience similar changes during menopause. Feel free to share your experiences in the comments and connect with others going through the same thing. Together, we can navigate this phase more effectively!