Body Odour in Menopause: What to Know

Hormonal changes around menopause can be accompanied by hot flushes and sweating. Moisture around the underarms, breasts, groin, scalp, or feet gives skin bacteria an opportunity to produce more noticeable odour. Night sweats may leave sleepwear, bedding, and skin damp for long periods. The smell may therefore seem different even when washing habits have not changed.

Menopause may be one contributor, but it should not be assumed to explain every new symptom. A persistent unusual smell, a rash, discharge, pain, fever, or a marked change in sweating needs individual assessment.

Use gentle cleansing, dry skin folds carefully, and change damp clothing promptly. Choose breathable sleepwear and wash bedding regularly. An antiperspirant can reduce sweating when used on dry skin as directed; deodorant mainly controls or covers odour. If sweating remains disruptive, ask a clinician about [Prescription Antiperspirant](/treatments/medical-dermatology/prescription-antiperspirant/). For troublesome underarm sweating, [Botox For Sweating](/treatments/injectables/botulinum-toxin-for-hyperhidrosis/) is another treatment to discuss. Keep a note of flushes, night sweats, products, and triggers such as heat or alcohol.

Arrange a review if odour or sweating continues despite these measures, disrupts sleep, or began with another medication or health change. Seek prompt care for fever, unexplained weight loss, painful skin changes, pus, rapidly spreading redness, or a sudden whole-body change in smell or sweating.

Could my sweating be related to menopause, medication, or another condition? Which antiperspirant is suitable for sensitive skin? What can help if night sweats or underarm sweating continue?