Embracing the Postpartum Journey: Let’s Talk About Postpartum Smell

Having a baby is one of the most transformative and beautiful moments of our lives. But let’s be real—motherhood comes with its challenges, and one of those challenges is something we don’t talk about enough: postpartum smell.

For me, becoming a mother again has been such a grounding experience, but I quickly noticed something I wasn’t expecting—my body odor was stronger than usual, especially in those first few weeks after giving birth.

It turns out that this is not uncommon during the postpartum period and has everything to do with the incredible ways our bodies adapt and change to meet the needs of our babies. I thought it was important to share what I’ve learned about postpartum smell because, like all the changes our bodies go through in this season, it’s nothing to feel ashamed about. It’s just another reminder of the amazing things we’re capable of.

What Causes Postpartum Smell?

When you give birth, the hormonal roller coaster does not end. One of the major contributors to postpartum odor is the hormonal shifts your body experiences after delivery. During pregnancy, your estrogen levels are sky high. But after the baby is born, estrogen plummets, and your body starts producing more sweat as your hormone levels recalibrate.

In fact, your apocrine glands—the sweat glands responsible for stronger-smelling odors, often found under your arms or around the groin—can become particularly active. Some researchers believe this is your body’s way of helping your baby bond with you. Babies recognize their mothers largely through scent, and a stronger odor might actually help your baby find comfort and connect to you (especially during breastfeeding!). Isn’t that incredible?

On top of that, the postpartum period is a time when your body is naturally detoxing. For instance, your body is shedding excess fluids, blood, and tissue, which can all contribute to changes in how you smell. Combined with disrupted sleep schedules (hello, night sweats!) and less time for self-care, the change in odor can feel more noticeable.

How I’m Navigating Postpartum Smell—The Natural Way

As a mom of a newborn, my days are all about simplicity, doing what’s healthiest for my baby and myself, and staying true to my values—especially when it comes to the products I use on my body. That's where my Bai-li Essentials natural deodorant has been key. Knowing I’m only applying clean, non-toxic ingredients near my breasts (where my baby snuggles and feeds) gives me so much peace of mind.

In this phase of life, self-care doesn’t look like long showers or serious skincare routines—it’s all about small, manageable steps that work. I’ve been cleaning more frequently (sometimes with just a quick washcloth) and reapplying my natural deodorant a bit more often than usual. It feels good to trust that I’m not putting any harmful chemicals on my skin or in my baby’s space.

Most importantly, I’ve embraced the fact that postpartum smell is part of this messy, beautiful experience. It’s temporary, it’s natural, and it’s a reflection of the incredible work my body is doing.

Let’s Normalize the Conversation

If you’ve experienced postpartum smell, I want you to know you’re not alone and it’s nothing to feel embarrassed about. Our bodies were designed to adapt, to nourish, and to connect, and postpartum smell is just one reminder of that.

For me, this season of life has been such a reminder to embrace simplicity and choose products and practices that align with my values. When I use my Bai-li Essentials natural deodorant, I know I’m prioritizing what’s safe for me and my family, and it feels so empowering.

Whether you’re on this journey now, have been there in the past, or are looking ahead to it someday, let’s continue being honest about the real, raw parts of motherhood—because it makes us stronger.