Can increased body odour be an early sign of pregnancy?

Yes, for some people. Hormonal changes start early and may lead to stronger underarm or vaginal odour even in the first trimester.

Is vaginal odour always normal in pregnancy?

A mild musky scent is normal, but a strong fishy or foul smell may indicate a bacterial or fungal infection. Always consult your doctor.

How long does pregnancy-related body odour last?

It typically resolves within a few weeks to months postpartum, once your hormones and sweat production return to pre-pregnancy levels.

Body Odour During Pregnancy: Causes, What’s Normal & When to Seek Help

Your body changes in ways no one warns you about. One moment you're adjusting to nausea or fatigue, the next you're wondering why your armpits smell stronger than usual—or why your vaginal discharge has a new scent. For many women, increased body odour during pregnancy becomes one of those silent, awkward discomforts no one talks about.

But you're not alone. Body odour changes are a common and very normal part of pregnancy. The reasons behind them are scientific, not shameful, ranging from hormonal shifts to increased sweat production and even your heightened sense of smell. In most cases, these changes are harmless and temporary. But in some, they might be your body's way of flagging an infection or imbalance.

What Triggers the Change in Body Odour?

You may not be sweating more than before, but your sweat might smell different. Here's why that happens during pregnancy:

Hormones are in overdrive: Rising levels of estrogen and progesterone influence sweat gland activity, especially in your underarms, breasts, and groin.
Your body temperature is higher: A naturally elevated core temperature means you sweat more easily, even with minimal activity.
Sweat composition changes: Apocrine glands release proteins and fats that bacteria break down into odour. These glands become more active in pregnancy.
More vaginal discharge, different pH: Hormones also alter your vaginal microbiome and discharge, sometimes resulting in a more noticeable scent.
You're more sensitive to smell: Even minor odour changes can feel amplified because of heightened olfactory sensitivity during pregnancy.

When Is It Most Noticeable?

You may notice stronger body odour in different ways across each trimester:

First trimester: Hormonal shifts kick in quickly. You may smell yourself more than others do.
Second trimester: Blood flow and metabolism ramp up, leading to more heat and sweat.
Third trimester: Your belly stretches, your sleep becomes restless, and night sweats or under-breast moisture may increase.

What’s Normal vs What’s Concerning

Understanding what’s expected helps reduce unnecessary worry:

Totally normal

Mild underarm or groin odour after activity or in heat
Slightly stronger vaginal discharge without discomfort
Breath odour linked to nausea, reflux, or dehydration

Needs medical attention

Fishy or foul-smelling vaginal discharge
Body odour that comes with rash, itching, or irritation
Sweet-smelling breath, which may indicate gestational diabetes
Sudden, excessive sweating with dizziness or fever

If the odour is accompanied by pain, redness, or unusual discharge, don’t wait—talk to your healthcare provider.

How to Manage Body Odour in Pregnancy

Simple adjustments can make a big difference in comfort and confidence.

Clean, breathable clothing: Wear loose cotton, bamboo, or modal fabrics that absorb sweat and allow ventilation. Avoid synthetic fibres that trap moisture.
Daily hygiene: Use a gentle, fragrance-free soap. Clean sweat-prone areas thoroughly—especially underarms, folds under the breasts, and groin.
Underwear swaps: Switch to 100% cotton underwear. Change at least twice a day if you're noticing stronger vaginal odour or discharge.
Safe deodorant choices: Go for aluminium-free and fragrance-free options. Skip strong body sprays, especially near intimate areas.
Hydration and diet: Drink enough water to dilute sweat compounds. Avoid odour-triggering foods like garlic, onion, and red meat if you're sensitive to smells.
Stress management: Stress increases sweat. Breathing exercises, cool showers, or even sitting near a fan can ease both stress and odour.

Pregnancy can leave you feeling physically exposed and emotionally raw. It’s natural to feel self-conscious when your body starts behaving differently, especially in ways that feel socially awkward, like stronger sweat or odour. But body odour is not a reflection of cleanliness or worth. It’s a response to the monumental changes happening inside you.
You deserve to feel respected in your own skin. Don’t let shame or discomfort isolate you. If odour changes impact your confidence, your intimacy, or your sense of self, speak to a trusted doctor. You are not the problem. Your body is doing its job.
Increased body odour during pregnancy is more common than you think. It’s your body adjusting to rapid hormonal, thermal, and microbial changes. For most, it’s a harmless and manageable side effect. But knowing what’s normal—and what’s not—gives you the power to take action when needed. With the right hygiene, fabrics, hydration, and medical support, you can move through pregnancy with more comfort and confidence.

FAQs on Why Does Body Odour Increase During Pregnancy? What’s Normal and What’s Not

Can increased body odour be an early sign of pregnancy?
Yes, for some people. Hormonal changes start early and may lead to stronger underarm or vaginal odour even in the first trimester.
Is vaginal odour always normal in pregnancy?
A mild musky scent is normal, but a strong fishy or foul smell may indicate a bacterial or fungal infection. Always consult your doctor.
How long does pregnancy-related body odour last?
It typically resolves within a few weeks to months postpartum, once your hormones and sweat production return to pre-pregnancy levels.