Here's How Pregnancy Affects A Woman's Sense Of Taste And Smell

I can’t thank my gynaecologist enough for getting me ready both physically and mentally for the pregnancy way before the expected changes began to show up. Not just did she make me aware of the physical aspects, but she ensured that I was mentally prepared as I embarked on a new journey.

Though pregnancy is unpredictable and the experience varies from woman to woman, some changes are anticipated during the prenatal period, and being aware of them can help. Sudden weight gain, body aches, strange food cravings, nausea, insomnia, my gynaecologist shared with me a list of common symptoms women experience. A change in the sense of taste and smell too was on the list. Post my delivery, I met a lot of expecting mothers who were unaware of such symptoms.

So, I thought of bringing an explainer on how pregnancy affects a woman’s sense of taste and smell. I spoke to Dr. Madhu Juneja, Senior Consultant, Ob-Gyn Cloudnine Group of Hospitals, Pune, Kalyani Nagar, and asked her to spill the beans on how pregnancy affects a woman’s sense of taste and smell.

Speaking of changes in taste and smell, Dr. Juneja said, “Yes, these changes can be seen anytime during the nine months of pregnancy. However, they are common during the first trimester."

Impact Of Pregnancy On Taste

Expecting mothers often experience a bitter or metallic taste. We asked our expert what causes changes in the taste. She said, "These changes usually occur due to hormonal changes during pregnancy. There is an increased blood flow to the mouth which contributes to the foul taste."

Overcoming Bitter Or Metallic Taste

"Popping candies can be a great way to overcome the foul taste. Amla (Amla Benefits), orange, or ginger candies help take care of the taste buds during pregnancy," said Dr. Juneja. Some other ways to deal with the bitter taste are mentioned below:

• Vinegar: Pickled foods like chutneys, sauces, and pickles help wash the metallic taste in the mouth.
• Munching on citrus fruits like pineapple, kiwi, and oranges can help get rid of the metallic taste.
• Staying hydrated:drinking a lot of water, or adding fresh lemon juice to a glass of water can help with the bitter taste.

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Impact Of Pregnancy On Smell

Women experience a lot of sensitivity when it comes to the sense of smell. This is because when a woman is pregnant, the blood supply to the nasal passages increases and it is easier to recognise certain odours. Some pregnant women have an aversion to certain smells that earlier were pleasant to them. (Pregnancy exercises)

"Sensitivity to strong odours is more during pregnancy. Cigarette smoke, and gas fumes among other unpleasant odours bother pregnant women," said the expert. To prevent the unpleasant experience, Dr. Juneja suggested:

• Avoid fumes and odours that are strong and not favourable.
• Smell coffee beans, or essential oils that help in overcoming the unpleasant smell.

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Our expert concluded, “These changes in the sense of smell and taste are quite normal and resolve post-delivery. However, if these concerns bother an expecting mother way too much, she shouldn't hesitate to speak to her gynaecologist. Simple tips and tricks can help an expecting mom resolve these common changes.”