Body Odor after Hysterectomy
Many HysterSisters have reported a change in body odor following their hysterectomy. Though medical information on the topic is scarce, here is what some HysterSisters have had to say about it:
“I’ve developed a body odor problem now that I’ve had a hysterectomy. I had a TAH/BSO and now deodorant doesn’t work anymore.”
“Before surgery, I rarely sweated and never had an odor. Since surgery, I have to use deodorant!”
“I thought I was the only one. My underarm odor has been so bad.”
“Previously, I would sweat a little but no smell. Now, I am sweating more and I can hardly stand my own smell when I am done working out.”
“I never had to use deodorant before my hysterectomy. Even though I kept my ovaries, I have noticed a body odor since my hysterectomy that requires me to faithfully use a deodorant.”
Emotional distress and stress can cause more perspiration. As surgery can be a traumatic event, you can expect to deal with more stress following a hysterectomy. The more you sweat, the more chance for body odor. The odor results from your skin’s bacteria metabolizing your sweat.
Other thoughts regarding the change in body odor involve a change in PH balance due to surgery. The skin can also undergo changes which could affect its bacteria and response to sweating. Medications and over-the-counter products may also affect body odor, so pay attention to any changes you have made regarding medicines, supplements, and vitamins since your surgery. Hot flashes and night sweats as a result of hormonal imbalance, sugar imbalance, and/or anesthesia could contribute to more sweating and, thus, more body odor.
Some doctors have suggested the issue is related to a change in hormones or which hormone replacement therapy (HRT) you choose. Some HysterSisters have noticed that as their hormones level out (whether naturally or with HRT), the odor does diminish.
The HysterSisters have found a few products to help with the odor:
- Pro Strength Secret
- Men’s Gillette deodorant
- Degree deodorant products
- Arm & Hammer antiperspirants and deodorants
- Mitchum deodorant
Others recommend products that include both an antiperspirant and deodorant, clinical strength deodorants, and body sprays. Some also suggest applying deodorizing products at bedtime and then again in the morning. Using feminine wipes or baby wipes to clean sweaty areas has been beneficial, too.
Because some serious health concerns can cause body odor, check with your doctor about any change in body odor. If there is an underlying health condition, it needs to be treated by a medical professional. Your physician may also be able to share product suggestions that may help address the body odor issue.
This content was written by staff of HysterSisters.com by non-medical professionals based on discussions, resources and input from other patients for the purpose of patient-to-patient support. Reprinted with permission: Body Odor after Hysterectomy
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