Vaginal odor is an odor that emanates from the vagina. A healthy vagina should not have any overly noticeable or unpleasant odor. Here are some reasons why your vagina smells bad.
Did you know that an unhealthy vagina can smell like a fish and people around you can notice it too?
What is the normal vaginal odor
Each vagina has a different odor or can be described as ‘mushy’, and you probably know which smell is normal for you. Vaginal odor can be a bit metallic during periods. You can smell a change in vaginal scent
- During menstruation
- Right after intercourse
- Sweating after an intense workout
But if you have a vaginal infection, you may smell fishy or rotten. You may also notice few associated symptoms like burning sensation while urinating or itching.
Cause
Infection is the most common cause of vaginal odor. There is a balance of normal bacteria or flora in the vagina. When this natural balance is disturbed due to infection of vagina or vaginal areas, it leads to vaginal odor.
- #1Bacterial vaginosis is an overgrowth of the bacteria that normally exist in the vagina. It is the most common bacterial vaginal infection and causes a distinct fishy odour.
- #2 trichomoniasis is the 2nd most common cause is vaginal odor. It is a sexually transmitted infection.
A woman’s normal scent is effected by
- The normal bacteria that resides in vagina
- Medication
- Fabrics
- Your level of hygiene
- Bathroom habits
- Gland secretions
- Your diet
There may be a rare and most serious cause of abnormal vaginal odor, which should not be taken lightly. Vaginal odor responds to home remedies within a week but if it does not, you should see your doctor immediately.
7 Types of vaginal odor
An infected vagina cam smell like anything, except flowers. Here are is a little guide to your vaginal odor.
1. Metallic vaginal odor
Vaginal odor during menstruation can be metallic because of the iron content in the blood which has a metallic smell.
2. Sweet
Change of bacteria in the vagina can smell a little sweet sometimes. This is not avoidable and home remedies to treat vaginal for can help. Drink plenty of water and consume probiotics to deal with this.
3. Chemical
Sometimes your vagina smells like a freshly cleaned washroom or similar smell to the bleach cream. This smell may be an indicator of bacterial vaginosis or a urine infection. This may need a trip to a gynaecologist.
4. Smoky herbs
An emotional stress may cause a vaginal odor. Human body secrete a fluid in our groin and underarms when stress levels are high. This milky secretion smell like smoky herbs after coming in contact with our skin.
5. Fishy vaginal smell
Bacterial infection or trichomoniasis is the most common infections and known for its foul smell like decaying fish. You should consult your gynaecologist for a antibiotic course to treat the causing factor.
6. Rotten Tomatoes
A forgotten tampon inside the vagina can smell like rotten tomatoes. Make sure you follow a good personal hygiene. Change your tampon daily during menstruation and clean it well to prevent abnormal vaginal scent.
7. Tangy
Normal vaginal pH is slightly acidic that can smell like yogurt or fermented bread. This makes the vagina to produce a little tangy or sour odor.
How to prevent vaginal order naturally
There is nothing to be ashamed of or embarrassed about a vaginal odour, if you are experiencing it just look around the solutions to help yourself. Follow preventive measures to go odourless.
- Practice good hygiene
- Avoid scented products
- Choose right underwear or follow underwear rules
- Use essential oils
- Consider pH balancing v-wash*
- Avoid douches
- Stay hydrated
- Take probiotics* at least once daily for vaginal health
- Timely prescription treatment
- Make sure your blood glucose is under control
- Don’t stress
When to see a doctor
If the vaginal odor is associated with other unusual symptoms such as pain or any discharge or bleeding, you should consult your gynecologist to make sure everything is under control and treated promptly.
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