Bittersweet or molasses-y. If your vaginal odor comes off smelling a little like tangy gingerbread, your normal bacteria may be in a bit of flux, affecting your pH balance and, therefore your aroma. Bleachy, like a clean kitchen sink. A chemically vaginal odor could be attributed to a bit of urine in your underwear or around your vulva.
But please note, it could also be the sign of a bacterial infection. Read on Unhealthy Vaginal Odors If you notice any of these vaginal odors, you may want to contact your gynecologist. If your vaginal odor is running foul, like the smell of dead fish, it may be a sign of a more serious condition: Bacterial Vaginosis BV is one possibility. BV is a bacterial infection that occurs when your healthy lactobacilli get out of balance and grow too much.
Symptoms include thin vaginal discharge that has a strong fishy smell and a little itching or burning when you urinate. BV is treated with an antibiotic. Trichomoniasis , a sexually transmitted infection, is another possible explanation for a heavy fishy vaginal odor.
Women with trichomoniasis may notice genital itching, burning, redness or soreness; urinary discomfort; and a clear, white, yellowish, or greenish vaginal discharge.
Trichomoniasis is treatable with antibiotics. Rotten, like bad meat. A forgotten tampon could be the cause of a putrid vaginal odor. Smoking, alcohol, and not drinking enough water can also change things up down below, she says. Hygiene habits also affect vaginal scent. Remember, your vagina is like any other part of your body—it needs to be kept clean. Also, the vagina's location near the anus makes is crucial that you keep the area clean, to avoid bacteria buildup that can lead to foul odors, she adds.
To get our top sexual health stories delivered to your inbox, sign up for the Health Hookup newsletter. By Claire Gillespie Updated January 21, Save Pin FB More.
Inserting soap into the vagina can affect vaginal pH, potentially leading to infections and an unpleasant odor. Some females might notice a stronger vaginal odor during menstruation. Hormonal changes can cause an odor similar to iron or ammonia. Some menstrual products can trap odor, compounding this effect. To reduce vaginal odor due to menstruation, try using internal products. The moisture of maxi pads and reusable cloth pads can contribute to odor. Sitting on a wet pad can also give rise to infection.
Some people notice a strong, fishy odor immediately after sexual intercourse, which is a sign of bacterial vaginosis. Others may note a less distinct smell. Sometimes, semen interacts with vaginal fluid, contributing to vaginal odor. Some lubricants can also affect the pH of the vagina, which can affect the scent. Probiotics support healthy bacteria throughout the human body, including in the vagina.
They may also help prevent some vaginal infections , especially yeast infections. Very tight-fitting clothing, including some shapewear, is often responsible for trapping these. Fecal matter that reaches the vagina can cause infections and odors, so it is important to avoid clothing that encourages this spread. This includes tight-fitting thong underwear. Breathable cotton is the best choice for those with concerns about vaginal odor, as it is less likely to hold moisture close to the vagina.
This makes it more difficult for bacteria and other sources of odor to build up and produce a strong smell. Consuming sugary foods can trigger an overgrowth of yeast, which can strengthen the odor of the vagina.
No research is available that supports the use of any specific food to change the smell of the vagina. However, some anecdotal evidence suggests that consuming sweet-smelling foods such as watermelon, apple, and celery might help. Females should also try to drink plenty of water.
Remaining well-hydrated prevents bacterial overgrowth. It can also prevent sweat from smelling irregular, resulting in a less pronounced vaginal odor. Read this article in Spanish. What do diseases smell like? Can we detect diseases via sense of smell? What diseases affect our sense of smell? And does any of this matter?
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