Why pregnant women have a sensitive sense of smell

Pregnant women experience significant changes both physically and physiologically, especially as their abdomens grow larger, their movements become more and more inconvenient.

Some pregnant women are particularly concerned about eating, and their sense of smell becomes more sensitive than before. Some love to eat and some hate it. But why do pregnant women have a sensitive sense of smell? The sense of smell becomes more sensitive during pregnancy because of changes in estrogen in the body.

1. Causes of olfactory sensitivity during pregnancy

This is because those pregnancy hormones are elevated. The increased estrogen and gonadotropin levels in your body change the way your body senses smells, making you very sensitive and prone to nausea and vomiting.

2. Benefits of being sensitive to smells during pregnancy

Some researchers believe that sensitivity to smells can cause morning sickness, which is good for us. Because this can prevent the intake of certain chemicals or foods that are harmful to the fetus. Why are pregnant women sensitive to the smell of cigarettes, alcohol, bitter vegetables and caffeinated drinks? Being sensitive to bitter foods like coffee may be a way to protect the fetus. It can be seen that after pregnancy, many pregnant mothers are particularly sensitive to certain smells. This is actually a protective mechanism that forces pregnant mothers to avoid substances or environments that may be bad for the pregnant mother or the fetus. For example, some substances with potentially harmful smells, such as paint, gasoline, and oil smoke, are taboo smells for pregnant mothers.

How to deal with a sensitive sense of smell during pregnancy

1. Eat good smelling food

Because your sense of smell is too sensitive, even a slightly unpleasant or fishy smell may cause morning sickness, so you can choose foods that smell better.

2. Indoor air circulation

If the smell of some food makes you uncomfortable, remember to open the windows when cooking to let fresh air circulate. This will make you more comfortable and not nauseous.

3. Good cleaning habits

Wash your clothes regularly and keep your house clean to avoid any items that might become smelly and create an unpleasant odor that could make you sick and cause you to vomit.