Does menopause give you BO? How to address body odor caused by hormonal changes

Understanding Body Odor and Menopause: Navigating Changes with Confidence

Let’s face it—menopause can feel like a wild rollercoaster, and body odor? That’s one of those twists no one warns you about. If you’ve noticed that your usual deodorant isn’t doing its job anymore, trust me, you’re not alone. I had one of those moments on a hot July day when I realized my trusty Dove Clinical Caring Coconut was no longer caring at all. I was just sitting there minding my own business and my nose was like “WTF!?”

Menopause comes with a whole lot of changes, and understanding what’s happening can help you feel more in control (and a little less surprised by what your body’s throwing at you).

The Menopause Transition

Menopause usually happens between 45 and 55, marking the end of your periods and a big drop in estrogen levels. Estrogen does a lot—regulating everything from your body temperature to your skin. So, when it dips, you can experience symptoms like hot flashes, night sweats, and yep, even changes in body odor.

How Hormonal Changes Affect Body Odor

Hormonal shifts during menopause can affect body odor in a few key ways:

• Hot Flashes and Sweating: Those sudden waves of heat bring on sweat—sometimes a lot of it. And when that sweat mixes with the bacteria on your skin, it can lead to a more noticeable odor. Fun times, right?
• Changes in Hormone Levels: Estrogen helps balance the bacteria on your skin. When those levels drop, it can disrupt that balance, which might leave you smelling a little different than you’re used to.
• Stress and Anxiety: Menopause can crank up your stress levels, and stress can make you sweat more. It can also change the way your body smells. Add stress sweat to hot flashes, and it’s a recipe for body odor that feels extra persistent.

Managing Body Odor During Menopause

Dealing with new body odor doesn’t mean you just have to accept it—there are plenty of ways to keep it in check and stay feeling fresh.

• Hydrate: Drinking plenty of water helps flush out toxins and keeps your body running smoothly. Staying hydrated can also help regulate your sweat. Aim for at least eight glasses a day (or more if you’re extra active or it’s hot out).
• Choose Breathable Fabrics: What you wear matters! Natural fabrics like cotton let your skin breathe, while synthetic materials can trap sweat and make odor worse. Stick to those comfy cotton tees.
• Good Hygiene: Showering regularly is key, especially if you’re sweating more than usual. And while I’m not normally a fan of antibacterial soap, I have to say, applying a dab of good old Dial liquid soap under my arms in the shower was the game-changer. That, paired with Mitchum Antiperspirant Roll-On for men (the one in the green container), nipped my menopausal body odor in two days. Just make sure to dry off completely afterward—moisture can encourage bacteria to grow.
• Diet Tweaks: What you eat can impact how you smell. Foods like garlic, spicy dishes, and even fish can amplify body odor. Eating a balanced diet rich in fruits, veggies, and whole grains can help keep things in check.
• Switch Up Your Deodorant: If your usual deodorant isn’t cutting it, don’t be afraid to try something new. Keep in mind, deodorants mask odor, but antiperspirants stop sweat. And “natural” doesn’t always mean better—sometimes they irritate more than they help.
• Manage Stress: Stress makes everything worse, including body odor. Incorporating mindfulness, meditation, or even just a few deep-breathing exercises into your day can help manage stress—and in turn, reduce stress-related sweating.
• Talk to Your Doctor: If the changes in your body odor are really getting to you, don’t hesitate to talk to your healthcare provider. They can offer advice or treatments to help manage menopause symptoms. Just a note: I personally can’t do hormone replacement therapy (HRT) because of my brain tumor, but I have friends who swear by it and are thriving. Everyone’s different, so find what works best for you.

The OSBB Bottom Line

Menopause is a big transition, and yes, changes in body odor might be an unexpected part of it, but it’s all part of the journey. The key is to approach it with a sense of humor and self-compassion. We’re all in this together, and with a few tweaks, you’ll get through it confidently.

So, if you’re noticing some new scents, remember—it’s just one more change to navigate, and you’ve got this!