Menopause can cause various changes to the body, including changes in body odor. As menstrual periods stop entirely, menopause symptoms occur, and a person may notice excess sweating or hyperhidrosis that leads to body odor.
Anecdotal evidence suggests that changes in body odor occur for many experiencing menopause, though there is little scientific evidence explaining why. Estrogen levels drop as menopause occurs, leading to symptoms such as hot flashes and night sweats. The increased sweating, or lack of temperature regulation by the hypothalamus, leads to more bacteria on the skin, resulting in body odor.
Other changes may include:
- hormonal changes affecting the composition of sweat
- an increase in sebum production
- oils in the sweat broken down by bacteria causing odor
Treatment for menopause symptoms usually includes hormone replacement therapy (HRT). HRT can give a boost of estrogen and progesterone in the body, reducing symptoms such as excess sweating, night sweats, and hot flashes.
Some other ways to manage body odor during menopause include:
- wearing loose, breathable clothing and fabrics such as cotton or silk
- working out what triggers sweating, including hot drinks, spicy foods, or stressful situations
- reducing stress with techniques such as yoga or meditation
- staying cool at night, including using cotton sheets or a fan
