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Does giving birth smell bad?

The Smell of Birth: A Complex Experience
When it comes to the sensory experience of giving birth, the question of whether it smells bad is nuanced and varies widely among individuals. The birthing process is inherently messy and involves a range of bodily fluids and activities that can contribute to strong odors.
What to Expect During Labor and Delivery
During labor, women may experience a variety of bodily functions that can produce odors. As noted by a midwife, labor can involve farting, pooping, burping, vomiting, and urinating, all of which can contribute to a strong smell in the delivery room. Additionally, the physical exertion of labor often leads to sweating, which can further add to the olfactory landscape.
Many women also go through long periods without eating solid food or showering, which can affect their personal scent. This combination of factors means that, yes, there is likely to be a noticeable smell during the birthing process.
Perceptions of Smell
Interestingly, perceptions of smell during childbirth can vary significantly. Some mothers report that the smell is not unpleasant, with one woman recalling that while she noticed a smell, it was not bad at all. In contrast, others have described the smell of amniotic fluid as disgusting, particularly when it first gushes out.
However, many parents find that the overwhelming experience of childbirth can dull their sensitivity to these smells. As one mother noted, by the time the baby is born, the focus on the moment often overshadows any concerns about odors.
The Role of Midwives and Medical Staff
Midwives and medical professionals are accustomed to the smells associated with childbirth. In fact, some experienced midwives have suggested that the smell of birth can be surprisingly sweet, indicating that it is not universally perceived as unpleasant. This perspective highlights the idea that familiarity with the birthing process can alter one’s perception of its sensory aspects.
Conclusion
In summary, while giving birth can indeed involve strong and sometimes unpleasant smells due to the various bodily functions at play, individual experiences and perceptions can differ widely. For many, the joy and focus on the new life being brought into the world can overshadow any concerns about odors, making the experience uniquely personal and often more positive than one might expect.

Does labor discharge smell?

You should also take note of the color of your amniotic fluid. It should be pale yellow, and odorless or slightly sweet smelling. If you notice a green or brown color, call your doctor right away as baby might have had a bowel movement (known as meconium) in the uterus.

Why do I have body odor after giving birth?

Your body goes through tons of hormonal transformations postpartum; there’s increased sweating and metabolic changes that happen too—and one consequence of all this internal turmoil is postpartum body odor, says Meleen Chuang, MD, chief of obstetrics and gynecology at NYU Langone Hospital in Brooklyn.

Does the baby smell when it comes out?

One mom will say her little one smells like a combination of soap, milk and fresh bread. Others will simply describe their new little ones as “sweet.” That unique smell is present the instant a baby is born, whether it’s via C-section or vaginal delivery. It lasts for a few weeks and then gradually fades away.

How to get rid of postpartum smell down there?

How can I bathe and keep myself clean postpartum?

  1. Keep your perineum very clean. This is the area between the vagina and rectum.
  2. Change your pad often. Each time you use the bathroom or change your pad wash your hands both before and after.
  3. Use a squirt bottle.
  4. Soak in a bath.
  5. Use pads, not tampons.

Is it normal to have a bad smell after giving birth?

Here are some possible sources of body odor after you’ve had a baby:

  • Postpartum bodies may sweat more than usual.
  • Your hormones are adjusting in a major way.
  • Vaginal discharge, lochia, may continue for 4-6 weeks after childbirth and can have a very distinctive smell.
  • Early parenting has its own scent.

Is there an odor when giving birth?

Lochia consists of all the contents in your uterus from nine months of pregnancy. There will be an odor to the blood and discharge like a typical menstrual period.

Why can I smell myself through my pants?

Poor hygiene
Refraining from regular bathing can lead to dirt, sweat, and dead skin cell buildup that leads to strong smells through your clothes. You can reduce these effects by showering regularly and washing with mild soap and warm water.

What are 6 danger signs in pregnancy?

Urgent Maternal Warning Signs:

  • Headache that won’t go away or gets worse over time.
  • Dizziness or fainting.
  • Thoughts about hurting yourself or your baby.
  • Changes in your vision.
  • Fever.
  • Trouble breathing.
  • Chest pain or fast-beating heart.
  • Severe belly pain that doesn’t go away.

What does natural birth smell like?

Lochia is often described as smelling like a normal period blood and may have earthy, musty, or metallic odor. Any of these smells are considered normal. If the lochia smells offensive or foul, it may be a sign of an infection.

How long does postpartum stink last?

It smells similar to your period, but might have some sour, stale, musty or metallic notes. “Your lochia could be pretty heavy for the first few days and then start to taper down,” Hamp states. It usually lasts about six weeks.

Natasha Lunn

Tash is an IBCLC and Business Coach helping fellow IBCLCs create fun, profitable businesses that are more than just an expensive hobby. Before becoming an IBCLC and starting her private practice - The Boobala, Tash graduated as an Osteopath in 2008 and has been in Private Practice in South West Sydney. She was also a volunteer Breastfeeding Counsellor and Community Educator with the Australian Breastfeeding Association for 6 years. Through her business, Your Lactation Biz, Tash coaches and creates products to help new and seasoned IBCLCs build businesses that suit their personality and lifestyle.

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