It is common knowledge that pregnant women experience a range of physical changes during their term. Among these changes is a heightened sense of smell. It is not uncommon for expectant mothers to experience an intense sensitivity to certain scents, which can have both positive and negative effects on pregnancy. As such, it is important for expectant mothers to understand when heightened smell starts in pregnancy, as well as how to manage this heightened sense of smell. In this blog post, we will explore when heightened smell starts in pregnancy, as well as some tips on how to manage it. We will also discuss what heightened smell could indicate, as well as how to differentiate heightened smell from normal smell. We hope that this blog post will provide expectant mothers with the information and resources they need to manage their heightened sense of smell during this significant period.
Causes of Heightened Sense of Smell During Pregnancy
I felt like a superhero when I first realized that my sense of smell was enhanced. Unfortunately, that wasn’t the case. Could something have happened to me that finally triggered some of the superhuman abilities I had always desired?
What, then, about pregnancy endows you with such a keen sense of smell?
Research is still unclear, but there are a few theories:
When Does Your Sense of Smell Start to Heighten?
In the first trimester, the majority of women experience an increased sense of smell (1). This condition is referred to as hyperosmia, and it is frequently among the very first signs of pregnancy.
Even the slightest odor can suddenly become overpowering. Some smells you used to hate might now seem quite delicious, while others you used to love might now make you queasy. Even worse, you might find your partner’s scent repulsive or even more alluring.
Editors Note: Dr. Irena Ilic, MD
The sensitivity level varies among each pregnant woman. While some women may only experience a mild to moderate increase in sensitivity, others may experience a fairly dramatic one.
Your sensitivity to certain smells may differ from woman to woman. Some women might not be able to be near broccoli, milk, or even their typical perfume, while others might find the smell of soap and cottage cheese repulsive.
However, a few typical odors seem to send a lot of expectant mothers running to the bathroom:
You’ll soon discover that your extremely perceptive pregnancy nose is controlling your diet and your surroundings. You Might Also Like.
Why Do I Have A Heightened Sense Of Smell?
Although there is no scientific evidence to support it, many pregnant women claim to have stronger senses of smell. A soon-to-be mother may find even the most innocuous smells overwhelming, such as a woman’s faint perfume in the Starbucks line or a whiff of a coworker’s lunch.
Although the cause of these symptoms is unknown, it is likely connected to the hormonal changes brought on by morning sickness. In The Mommy Docs’ Ultimate Guide to Pregnancy and Birth, co-authored by Yvonne Bohn, MD, she writes, “Rising levels of estrogen and human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) in the first trimester trigger nausea, vomiting, and morning sickness. A strong scent could exacerbate a woman’s already mildly nauseated symptoms. ”.
FAQ
How early does sensitive smell start in pregnancy?
What symptoms do you get when your 1 week pregnant?
- nausea with or without vomiting.
- breast changes including tenderness, swelling, or tingling feeling, or noticeable blue veins.
- frequent urination.
- headache.
- raised basal body temperature.
- bloating in the belly or gas.
- mild pelvic cramping or discomfort without bleeding.
- tiredness or fatigue.