Sorry to be so gross, but I am almost 8 weeks pregnant and I smell so bad! I am bleeding steadily(don't worry, the doctor knows and says it will be like this awhile)but the blood and/or my chemistry right now is terrible. It's worse than being on your period. I wash several times a day and use tons of powder and wear pads, but I still feel so self-conscious. Any wisdom?

bnhgal

Don't use powders or anything else that is suppose to make you "smell good." Daily showering and GOOD rinsing is all you need. If you wear a pad, make sure it is unscented. All the products that are on the market to make us smell better actually have the oppostie effect. Powders, sprays, scented items interfere with the normal vaginal bacteria and allow an overgrowth of that bacteria. What you end up with is bacterial vaginosis. I see many women with this and just a little education, and medication, takes care of it. BV, if that is what you have can also be from a change in the ph of the vagina, just from being pregnant. Some providers may not use the medication in the first trimester and wait until the 2nd--after 12 weeks, again, if this is what you have. I do use this in the first trimester if there are symptoms. Bleeding doesn't help. I would get a squirt bottle, like they give you after you have a baby. Fill that with warm water to "clean" off after using the bathroom and changing your pad each time.
Mary

I'm not wise...but i'm sympathetic...if that helps.

Also...flushable wipes (like the ones they make for potty training...silly, yes) are very good for cleansing during bleeding and after using the washroom and whatnot. Drink lots of water, too, and that will help to flush toxins out of your body.

good luck

Hi,

Thank you all for the advice. I will try some wipes-I had thought of that, too. Am drinking lots of water, so that should help. Also will cease with the powders. I think it is getting a little bit better...Thanks for the support!

bnhgal