What should you know about body odour women?

Hormonal changes around periods, pregnancy, postpartum recovery, or menopause may alter sweating and skin moisture. The underarms and groin can then develop a stronger smell as bacteria act on sweat. Exercise, stress, synthetic clothing, shaving irritation, and fragranced products can add to the problem. Odour from the vulva is different from ordinary underarm odour; a strong new vaginal smell with discharge, itching, or pain needs clinical assessment rather than deodorant.

Wash external skin gently, avoid douching, and dry thoroughly before dressing. Change damp underwear or exercise clothing and choose breathable fabrics. Use antiperspirant only on intact external skin, following the product directions; avoid applying it to the vulva or broken skin. If underarm sweating remains difficult to manage, a clinician may discuss [Prescription Antiperspirant](/treatments/medical-dermatology/prescription-antiperspirant/) or [Botox For Sweating](/treatments/injectables/botulinum-toxin-for-hyperhidrosis/). See [Body Odour](/symptoms/body-odour/) for broader symptom information.

Arrange care for a sudden persistent change, a fishy or unusual genital smell, discharge, itching, burning, sores, pelvic pain, fever, or skin redness. Also seek advice if sweating is new and severe or occurs with other unexplained health changes. A clinician can identify irritation, infection, or a sweat-related problem and recommend treatment that is suitable for your circumstances.

Is the smell coming from external skin or the vagina? Could a product, hormonal change, or infection be contributing? Which treatments are safe during pregnancy, breastfeeding, or menopause?