Increased Odor Perception In Pregnancy – I’m A Mom
It is true that, under certain circumstances, anyone can experience an increase in odor perception (also known as cacosmia or hyperosmia), including some expectant mothers. Especially during the first trimester of pregnancy.
It is important to remember that the perception of odors is carried out primarily in the brain, more specifically in the olfactory bulbs. They are the seat of all the impressions related to the smells that reach our organism.
It may be that some pregnant women do not feel the odors very well and go through this process in a normal way. On the other hand, there are those who, during the nine months, experience an olfactory sensitivity that even provokes. nausea.
When it comes to the perception of non-existent unpleasant odors, which are called “ghost smells”, it means there is cacosmia. However, when odors are perceived with great intensity, what is called hyperosmia occurs. Both cases can even cause nausea and vomiting.
Among the odors that can cause nausea and vomiting are:
- Coffee.
- Perfume.
- Alcohol.
- Fish.
- Cigarette.
- Raw chicken.
- Detergents.
- Certain floral aromas.
- Very spicy foods.
Causes of increased perception of odors in pregnancy
This reaction is caused by a progressive increase in the level of certain hormones produced in pregnant women, such as progesterone and estrogen. It causes a feeling of disgust and incites stomach upset.
Smell and taste usually work together. This is due to their close connection, which is why increased odor perception in pregnancy often causes nausea and vomiting.
This increase in the level of these hormones in pregnancy represents a protective defense. Thus, the pregnant woman defends herself from substances that can become toxic and even harmful for the proper development of the baby.
The way a woman’s body defends itself against unpleasant odors during pregnancy is through nausea and vomiting. However, when this becomes constant, it is harmful and can even be fatal to the baby.
When repeatedly vomiting, the stomach walls contract and put pressure on the placenta where the baby is immersed, which interrupts its healthy development.
Recommendations to avoid discomfort
Faced with the increased perception of odor during pregnancy, mothers who have already detected which smells are harmful to them must take certain measures to avoid them. Here are some recommendations:
- Avoid going to very closed places: especially where you run the risk of accumulating unpleasant odors and even gases that can be harmful to both the mother and the developing baby.
- Do not leave products made with strong odor chemicals uncapped. For example, paints, laundry detergents or bleaches, which can be fatal if inhaled.
- Reduce participation in meal preparation. In general, pregnant women cannot stand the odors given off by certain foods or foods, especially in the first trimester of pregnancy.
- Avoid being around people who are smoking.
- Determine what your favorite scent is. That way, you can always carry your favorite aroma with you to combat any discomfort.
Is it a cause for concern?
About 25% of women experience an increased perception of odors in pregnancy, which often appear and disappear suddenly. Women who are not pregnant, in turn, have no reason to develop this olfactory sensitivity.
For women who are in the process of pregnancy, it is normal that certain odors are a little unpleasant and cause some discomfort. This happens very often in the first three months of pregnancy.
However, it is not normal when such discomforts, such as nausea and vomiting caused by odors, remain for months on end. This can be harmful to both mother and baby.
Once you have completed the first trimester of pregnancy, if you continue to suffer from these discomforts frequently, it is important to see a specialist as soon as possible. Remember that the effort you make when vomiting can affect your baby’s well-being.
As a final piece of advice, enjoy each of the stages of your pregnancy, including its ups and downs. Despite the difficulties, the reward after nine months will be irreplaceable.
