Experiencing changes in body odor is a common occurrence during pregnancy due to hormonal shifts, increased sweating, and changes in personal hygiene routines. If you’re pregnant and notice a fish-like smell, it could be a sign of a variety of changes or conditions. Here’s what you should know.
Why You May Smell Differently During Pregnancy
During pregnancy, hormonal changes can lead to increased perspiration, which can result in new, unexpected body odors. It’s not uncommon to notice that you smell differently, and sometimes, it might remind you of a fishy smell.
Making room for the nights
A lot to think about.
A little room for rest.
Before birth or with your baby already here, the nighttime questions can pile up. Watch our video below for practical baby-sleep ideas to bring into your plans for the nights ahead.
Prefer to read?Press play for a little help with your baby’s next bedtime.
Kind words about the original video
“Thank you so much for this video!”
“I'm truly impressed with how much information you share in your video.”
The SleepBaby Workshop
Get the Workshop.
Get the Workshop, including Our Night Handoff and the Caregiver Shift & Fatigue Plan. 15 guides and five audio tracks in a simple browser hub. Read, listen, and return to the part you need.
A conversation, if you want one.Night Owls is the SleepBaby chat room. Read what is there or join in.
Is It Normal to Smell Like Fish During Pregnancy?
While changes in body odor are normal during pregnancy, a persistent fishy smell could indicate bacterial vaginosis (BV), a common vaginal infection during pregnancy. BV is treatable and not usually harmful, but if left untreated, it could lead to complications, such as preterm birth or low birth weight.
Other Possible Causes
If you’re pregnant and smell like fish, it could also be a sign of a rare metabolic disorder known as trimethylaminuria, or ‘fish odor syndrome’. This condition is usually genetic and causes the body to excrete a strong fishy smell in sweat, urine, and breath. If you suspect you have this condition, consult with a healthcare provider.
When to Consult a Doctor
Body odor changes can be a regular part of pregnancy, but if the smell is persistent, strong, or accompanied by other symptoms such as itching, burning, or unusual discharge, it’s a good idea to consult with a healthcare provider to rule out infections or other conditions.
Managing Changes in Body Odor During Pregnancy
Keeping up with regular hygiene practices, wearing breathable fabrics, staying hydrated, and eating a balanced diet can all help manage changes in body odor during pregnancy.
Changes in Body Odor and Discharge During Pregnancy
Why Do I Smell Down There During Pregnancy?
Increased hormonal activity can result in a more potent vaginal odor. Sometimes, this smell may remind you of fish. Furthermore, an increase in vaginal discharge during pregnancy, which is normal and healthy, can also contribute to the change in smell.
Why Does My Discharge Smell a Little Like Fish?
A slightly fishy odor in your discharge could be due to natural changes in your vaginal microbiome during pregnancy. However, a strong, persistent fishy smell could indicate bacterial vaginosis (BV) – a common infection that can occur during pregnancy.
How to Manage Fishy Smell During Pregnancy
How Do I Get Rid of Fishy Smell During Pregnancy?
Maintaining proper hygiene, using unscented products, and wearing breathable cotton underwear can help control the fishy smell. Drinking plenty of water and eating a balanced diet also supports a healthy vaginal microbiome.
How Can I Stop Smelling During Pregnancy?
Regular baths, using mild, unscented soaps, and wearing loose, breathable clothing can help manage body odor during pregnancy. Also, make sure to stay hydrated and maintain a healthy diet.
What Pills Are Good for Smelly Discharge?
If the fishy odor is due to an infection like BV, your healthcare provider may prescribe antibiotics. However, it’s essential not to self-medicate and consult a healthcare provider if you’re concerned about a strong or persistent fishy smell.
Real Parents, Real Stories
“When I was pregnant with my first child, I started noticing a change in my body odor. At first, I thought it was just hormones, but when the smell turned a little fishy, I got worried. I was relieved when my doctor told me it was a common infection called bacterial vaginosis, and antibiotics took care of it quickly.” – Lauren, mother of two.
“During my second trimester, I started experiencing a strange fish-like odor. It was a bit embarrassing. I found out that it was due to hormonal changes and an increase in vaginal discharge. Staying hydrated and maintaining good hygiene helped a lot.” – Sarah, expectant mother.
“When I was pregnant, I noticed my body odor changed. I remember feeling self-conscious about it. My doctor told me it was normal during pregnancy and suggested some hygiene practices that really helped. I was glad to know it wasn’t just me.” – Melissa, mother of one.
How SleepBaby.org Can Help
Pregnancy is a time of numerous changes, including your sleep patterns. Navigating these changes while dealing with pregnancy symptoms can be a challenge. SleepBaby.org is here to help. We provide valuable resources on how to improve sleep for you and your baby. Whether you’re struggling with pregnancy insomnia or preparing for newborn sleep schedules, our tips and advice can guide you. Remember, adequate sleep also contributes to overall well-being and can help manage changes in body odor.
The SleepBaby.org Workshop
Make a plan for
the next bedtime.
Practical help for wake-ups, short naps, and sharing the night shift. Watch the original video, then get 15 guides and five audio tracks for $9.
$9 USD, paid once. No subscription. Digital access.
Watch the original Baby Sleep Miracle presentation
Press play for a little help with your baby’s next bedtime.
Original presentation. Watch before you decide.
15practical guides
5audio tracks
1one-time payment
Kind words about the original video
“Thank you so much for this video!”
“I'm truly impressed with how much information you share in your video.”
Inside the Workshop
Start with the night
you're having.
You don't need to read all 15 guides before bedtime. Choose the one that answers the question in front of you, then come back for the next part.
Before you buy
A few things
made clear.
A straightforward purchase, with space to decide what fits your family.
What am I buying?
The SleepBaby.org Workshop includes 15 digital guides, five audio tracks, and the original Baby Sleep Workshop PDF as an additional download. It costs $9 USD, paid once, with no subscription. Nothing is shipped.
Where should I start?
Try Tonight Rescue when you need a starting point. If your question is more specific, go straight to the guide on naps, a caregiver handoff, the sleep space, or another topic. You can read at your own pace.
Is this personal sleep coaching?
No. This is an educational collection for parents of babies and young children. Use the age-specific guidance, and bring feeding, breathing, growth, illness, or other health concerns to your child's clinician. It does not diagnose a problem or promise a sleep result.
Is the video the paid Workshop?
You can watch the original Baby Sleep Miracle presentation on this page. Your purchase is the SleepBaby.org Workshop collection of guides, audio tracks, and the original PDF described here.
How do I find it after checkout?
On your thank-you or order-status page, look for Open Workshop access, then Open your SleepBaby Workshop. Keep your order confirmation so you can return. If you need help finding your access, use our Workshop download help.
The SleepBaby.org Workshop
Have somewhere to start
at the next bedtime.
15 practical guides. Five audio tracks. One $9 purchase.
