Bad body odour can occur due to various factors, including diet, underlying medical conditions, and certain medications. However, hormonal fluctuations and imbalances can be a common cause too. Speaking with the OnlyMyHealth team, Dr Tejal Deshmukh, Consultant - Gynaecology, Manipal Hospital, Baner, Pune, explains the link and shares other signs that can help identify hormonal imbalances.
Also read: Here Are 10 Lifestyle Issues That May Be Causing Your Hormonal Imbalance
Understanding Hormonal Imbalance
“Hormonal imbalance occurs when the levels of hormones in your bloodstream fluctuate significantly,” says Dr Deshmukh, adding that these hormones can rise above or drop below their normal range.
Hormones are chemicals in the body that assist various functions in the body, including growth, repair, and reproduction.
Any disruptions in the hormonal balance can affect your body in various ways, for instance, irregular menstruation, mood swings, hair loss, infertility, and weight gain.
Can Hormonal Imbalance Affect Body Odour?
It is important to note that hormonal changes can also cause increased sweating, especially during times like menopause, menstruation, and pregnancy.
In a previous interaction with the OnlyMyHealth team, Dr Deshmukh attributes profuse sweating to decreased oestrogen levels during menopause. Oestrogen is one of the main female sex hormones responsible for puberty, the menstrual cycle, pregnancy, bone strength, and other functions of the body.
Simultaneously, there is relatively high testosterone, which is otherwise produced by the ovaries in small amounts, he says, adding that this can lead to increased sweating and hot flashes, which can boost sebum production and alter body odour.
Also Read: Excessive Sweating In Social Situations? Know The Causes, Symptoms And Treatment For Hyperhidrosis
As per the doctor, another possible explanation could be increased anxiety, which, according to a study published in the American Journal of Transnational Research, affects 25% of menopausal women.
But while bad body odour can be a symptom of hormonal imbalance, it's not always the case unless you experience a sudden or persistent change in body odour along with other hormonal symptoms, the doctor adds, advising that it's best to consult a doctor.
Other factors that can affect hormonal balance include:
Diet: Certain foods, like garlic, onions, and spicy dishes, can affect your sweat's smell.
Medications: Some medications can cause side effects like increased sweating or changes in body odour.
Medical conditions: Underlying medical conditions like diabetes or thyroid issues can sometimes manifest as changes in body odour.
Hygiene: Maintaining good hygiene practices like regular showers and using deodorants or antiperspirants is crucial.
Other Signs Of Hormonal Imbalance
Some common signs of hormonal imbalance to be aware of are:
- Weight gain or difficulty losing weight
- Irregular periods or missed periods
- Acne breakouts
- Dry skin and vaginal dryness
- Hair loss or thinning hair
- Mood swings, anxiety, or depression
- Low libido
Conclusion
Hormonal imbalances can take a toll on your health. It can lead to period problems, mood issues, unwanted hair growth, fertility challenges, weight gain, and difficulty sleeping. Bad body odour can also be a sign of hormonal imbalance, especially in middle-aged women who have reached menopause. However, it is not always a sign of hormonal issues, and other factors, such as diet, medical conditions, and medications, can also contribute to it.