I SMELL TERRIBLE

Q I’m 38 weeks pregnant. I’ve noticed that I have a really unpleasant smell downstairs and am suddenly so wet that I have to wear pads. Should I worry?

A DR KOLL ANSWERS: The increased discharge is completely normal because your cervix is very congested during pregnancy. And smelling yourself vaginally (especially towards the end of your pregnancy) is not unusual. Increased mucus with a sweet, doughy or gluey scent is perfectly normal.

Rest assured: your odour has not gotten any stronger – it is just your sense of smell that has improved.

But if it is itchy, burns or smells unpleasant, then have it checked out. If it worries you, or if you notice redness, pain or a chunky discharge, you might have a yeast infection. A fishy, ammonia-type smell suggests bacterial vaginosis, which can trigger pre-term labour. Both of these are easily and safely treated during pregnancy.