Women's greater ability to detect odours and aromas could be linked to the oestrogen hormone, according to research.

A US study showed women of reproductive age are far better at identifying odours than men after repeated exposure to the source of the smell.

Researchers found female subjects whose odour sensitivity was tested many times, were able to detect the cherry-almond smell of benzaldehyde and a few other odours at progressively much lower concentrations.

Male subjects taking part in similar tests never improved their ability to identify odours with experience.



Some studies have shown that during ovulation, there's a surge of oestrogen which increases sensitivity

Professor Tim Jacobs, Cardiff University