This Woman Shocked the Internet by Revealing 'Postpartum Stink' Is a Thing, So Experts Explain Why It Happens to New Moms

It is a well-known fact that women's bodies can do incredible things, such as carrying a child. Although many people talk openly about pregnancy and childbirth and what to expect, many may not be aware of what happens to the body after delivery.

Last month, a woman named Sarah Biggers-Stewart (@thebiggersthebetter)'s TikTok video about “postpartum stink” went viral and was viewed nearly 3 million times.

In her video, she explained that new mothers may experience different odors, such as BO and lochia – a vaginal discharge that appears after childbirth that has a stale, stale odor.

So many women in the comments on Sarah's video related to the postpartum odor she talked about, or were surprised just to hear about this symptom.

For more information, I decided to contact some experts: Dr. Greg Marchand, dual board certified in OBGYN and MIGS at Marchand Institute for Minimally Invasive Surgery, and Dr. Jillian LoPiano, OBGYN+ Chief Health Officer at Wisp, to explain these postpartum odors and what other normal but rarely discussed symptoms a woman may experience after giving birth.

“The reason [for postpartum smell] is the drastic change in hormones that occurs when the body no longer supports the pregnancy and produces milk instead. This results in a decrease in progesterone levels and increased prolactin levels,” explains Dr. Marchand out.

“This will change the pH (or acidity) of the body and alter the bacteria that live on your skin and in your mouth, vagina and anus. The result is usually a change in body odor. Although all normal body odor remedies (more showering, more frequent use of antiperspirants, moisture-wicking clothing) can combat these new odors, nothing is dangerous about the change,” he added.

Dr. LoPiano said these odors can last for a few months. Dr. Marchand added, explaining, “If you are not breastfeeding, the changes should disappear within six weeks, which is approximately the time it takes for your body to reach the non-pregnant hormonal state. However, if you are breastfeeding, these changes can occur.” changes may take longer and may last the entire time you are breastfeeding.”

In addition to having different body odors, other postpartum symptoms may include pain while urinating after giving birth.

“There are several causes for this. First, urine can come into contact with the vagina and vulva during urination. Because both the vagina and vulva undergo trauma during vaginal delivery, this is likely to cause a stabbing pain,” says Dr. Marchand.

“This can be resolved by rinsing with a saltwater solution after urination. Most women who give birth also have a urinary catheter, a rubber or plastic tube used to empty the bladder, especially when a woman is receiving epidural or spinal anesthesia” , says Dr. Marchand. told BuzzFeed

These all tend to irritate the urethra, so some irritation may be normal. However, if the irritation lasts more than a few days, or you have other symptoms of a urinary tract infection, let your doctor know because you have had a urinary tract infection. catheter is a major risk factor for urinary tract infection,” he added.

Another normal but uncomfortable postpartum symptom is cramping.

“Cramps are a normal part of postpartum healing. The uterine muscle contracts to prevent bleeding. Additionally, breastfeeding causes the release of oxytocin, which causes the uterus to contract, so feeding or pumping may result in more cramps,” she said. Dr. LoPiano to BuzzFeed. .

As explained above, women's hormones drop drastically immediately after childbirth, which takes a toll on the body. 'The most serious [effects of hormones dropping] are in mind. Mental changes such as depression and blues are unfortunately very common. It is important to be alert to serious changes in mental status, such as postpartum psychosis,” said Dr. Marchand.

Breast swelling is another common postpartum symptom.

“Breast swelling can be uncomfortable; regular feeding and pumping can alleviate this discomfort. If you decide to forego breastfeeding, ice packs and form-fitting bras can help as milk production decreases,” Dr. LoPiano to BuzzFeed.

All this is to say that women's bodies are incredible and so resilient. If you experience any of these symptoms, remember that they are common and part of labor. However, you know your body best, so if something doesn't feel right, talk to your doctor.

Have you experienced any of these symptoms or others? Share all your postpartum thoughts with me in the comments below!