The first trimester of pregnancy represents a turning point in a woman's life, and it is also when the first symptoms of pregnancy appear, such as the common and annoying nausea, caused by a possible change in smell.
This change can cause an intolerance to a wide range of fragrances or a temporary alteration of personal tastes, making what were once considered “perfumes” no longer so or, worse, considered annoying.
Increased sensitivity to smells during pregnancy
The medical term for olfactory sensitivity during pregnancy is gravidic hyperosmia, and it is a consequence of the increase in hormone levels, particularly estrogen.
Gravidic hyperosmia is a natural biological phenomenon, one of the most common symptoms encountered during pregnancy, which makes the relationship between the mother and food or other substances, such as cleansers or cosmetics, more complicated.
Researchers believe that the origin of this condition serves a dual purpose:
1. Protective.
The woman instinctively distances herself from things that could be harmful or dangerous to her and her baby.
2. Evolutionary.
The heightened sense of smell is a natural and biological adaptation, which occurs in mammals in general, to allow olfactory recognition between the mother and her newborn.
Among the odors that are identified as the most intolerable are:
- fish;
- meat;
- eggs;
- smoke;
- coffee;
- intense perfumes;
- chemicals.
But these are just examples, based on statistical results; the development of olfactory alteration during pregnancy is, of course, highly subjective and can involve various odors.
In any case, not only foods are a source of discomfort during pregnancy, but also the scent of some perfumes or cosmetics can become annoying and worsen the nausea and discomfort of the expectant mother.
Fragrance-free cosmetics
The onset of gravidic hyperosmia should not be an obstacle for women, who must obviously continue to take care of their body and their health and beauty.
The Unique Form has thought of these women by creating fragrance-free cosmetics, which can be used without affecting the olfactory and psychological well-being of new mothers.*
Taking care of the body that changes throughout pregnancy is important to prevent and alleviate issues such as leg swelling, caused by water retention, which causes pain and heaviness, or dry skin, which leads to stretch marks and skin imperfections.
Fragrance-free cosmetics can therefore be the solution for issues related to olfactory sensitivity, allowing pregnant women to take care of their body without giving up the nutrients and benefits of specific creams, but also for those with extremely sensitive skin or those looking for hypoallergenic solutions to avoid allergies or irritations.
* Check each product's suitability for use during pregnancy.
Ex. ✅Pregnancy or ❌Pregnancy