ABC’s of Menopause: Body Odor

Menopause is the “gift” that keeps on giving. With 34 associated symptoms that can easily be ascribed to a myriad of other health conditions, it can be impossible to know if what you’re experiencing is tied to menopause without a hormone test. Each week this series will break down symptoms to empower women to take back control of their health and enjoy some relief.

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Feeling the funk? Brace yourself for a surprising menopause twist - a notable shift in body odor. If you've noticed an unexpected and unpleasant change in your scent, you're not alone. Another possible symptom of menopausal hormonal fluctuations, this change can prove resistant to even the most stringent hygiene practices. Read on to understand its origin, as well as for tips to combat this olfactory assault.

What Causes Body Odor in Menopausal Women?

Declining estrogen can play a crucial role in body odor changes, as it regulates body temperature and controls sweat gland activity. To start, the copious perspiration accompanying hot flashes and night sweats provides an ideal environment for bacteria to thrive, amplifying the issue of body odor. And, as estrogen levels decline, the production of sweat and the composition of sweat changes, leading to alterations in body odor.

On the flip side, some menopausal women report a heightened sense of smell. These changes can occasionally trick us into perceiving unpleasant odors, even when they might not be present. 

How Do I Know if My Body Odor Is Menopause Related?

If you’re adhering to the most stringent hygiene standards, the only way to know is to have your hormones tested. Other hormone imbalances can affect odor, such as the thyroid, so only blood work can confirm the origin of the changes.

What Else Causes Body Odor?

To start, diet choices can affect body odor as it leaves the system through sweat. Things like dairy, meat, seasonings and spices can all add “flavor” to your scent. Stress, medications, skin infections and underlying health conditions like diabetes and kidney disease can all have an impact.

What Are My Treatment Options?

There are a variety of methods that can help mitigate menopausal body odor including:

• Adopting a proper hygiene routine, including regular showers, the use of antibacterial soaps and adopting a new antiperspirant fragrance to help mask the scent; prescription-strength antiperspirants may be advisable. 
• Choosing breathable fabrics that pull moisture away from skin so you aren’t damp and sweaty.
• Botox injected in armpits has been shown to reduce excess sweating by up to 90%.
• Staying hydrated and maintaining a balanced diet free of ingredients that are known to exacerbate unpleasant body odor.
• Hormone Replacement Therapy will correct declining estrogen and progesterone levels, helping your body better regulate its temperature so you won’t sweat as much.

When Should I See A Doctor?

If your body odor is persistent, accompanied by other concerning symptoms, or significantly affects your daily life, it's time to consult with a healthcare professional. A thorough examination, coupled with relevant tests, can help identify any underlying health issues that may be contributing to the change in body odor.

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