Foot Odor During Pregnancy

During pregnancy, an increase in fluid retention can cause shoes to fit tighter than normal. When shoes are tight, feet cannot breathe. Air must be able to access the feet on a regular basis in order to keep foot odor to a minimum. Natural bacteria present on the feet typically have no smell – as long as feet stay dry. When feet remain damp for extended periods, foot odor can be a problem.

Pregnant women have an increased risk of foot odor due to the swelling and spreading of the feet caused by pregnancy hormones. Instead of trying to wedge pregnant feet into tight fitting shoes, it is better to buy a wider shoe to accommodate pregnancy foot sprawl. Wearing moisture wicking socks can also prevent accumulation of moisture that can lead to foot odor.

Natural baby powder can help by absorbing extra sweat around the feet. After each use, old baby powder should be cleaned out of shoes with a vacuum cleaner. Spraying shoes with an antiseptic household spray like Lysol may also help prevent odors from hanging around shoes.