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Smells and your sex life

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Catching a cold is a nuisance in itself, but its effects may be more far-reaching than many people realise. A recent study(1) has scientifically proven what we already knew: that being bunged up affects our sense of smell. Smell plays a vital role in choosing a mate, interacting with others, and making us feel more confident. When a cold rears its ugly head, sufferers are deprived of a crucial sense, which in turn can wreak havoc with their well-being

Sniff 'n' choose

All the senses play a part in physical attraction. A potential partner may look stunning, have a sexy voice and feel silky smooth, but how they smell is a key deciding factor in choosing a mate.

Every person has a unique scent. Without exactly understanding how, scientists have found that this scent is linked to the immune system(2). When looking for a partner, most people subconsciously select someone with a widely different system. Their children would have a broader immune system and therefore a better chance of fighting off infection. So, without realising it, we're sniffing out the best partner for the healthiest offspring. Of course, it helps if they bathe regularly!

Feeling broody

It all comes down to nature. Women's sense of smell is heightened during ovulation. At this most fertile period of their cycle, they may become choosier than ever when it comes to finding the right mate and frustratingly for men, women's secretions smell most pleasant during this time(3). Therefore, it seems that ovulating women are most attractive at a time when they are hardest to please.


*contains Phenylepherine hydrochloride
Always read the label. Ask the pharmacist for advice.
References
1 Jacobs, T. The effect of nasal congestion on smell sensitivity. Report commissioned by Pfizer Consumer Healthcare
2 Wedekind et al., 1995
3 Doty et al., 1975

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