Ever wondered “Why does my vagina smell?” Youre not alone. Vaginal odors are totally normal. vaginas smell. Some kind of scent should be in your vaginal area, even if soap ads say it should be a light floral scent.
The New York Times reported that people who have vaginas are most worried that they smell like fish. Other smells that people worry about are vinegar, onions, ammonia, garlic, cheese, body odor, urine, bread, bleach, feces, sweat, metal, feet, garbage, and rotten meat. “.
There is no single way a healthy vagina should smell. “Every woman has her own scent and its a totally normal part of who she is. “Only you can really smell your own natural scent, and it’s not likely that anyone else can either,” says Dr. Vanessa Cullins, Vice President for External Medical Affairs at Planned Parenthood Federation of America.
Many people say that their healthy vaginal smell is musky. Vaginas will never smell like a bed of roses, even though they are often compared to gardens and flowers. That said, vaginal odors outside your typical smell can be a sign that somethings amiss.
Few things can change the smell of your vaginal area: having an infection or STI, working out and sweating, your hormone levels during your period, and more. When should you see a doctor? Dr. “An unpleasant smell can be a sign of an infection that needs to be treated right away,” says Cullins. “This is especially true if it’s accompanied by an unusual discharge.” ” Your body is smart. When your vagina is trying to tell you something, dont ignore it.
Read on to learn more about seven types of vaginal odors that you should be aware of, from Dr. Cullins and Dr. Debora Nucatolah, Senior Director of Medical Services, at Planned Parenthood Federation of America. (And if youre experiencing any acne down there, heres how to treat vaginal pimples. ).
Have you ever noticed a strange, meaty odor coming from your vagina and thought to yourself: “Hmm, my vagina kind of smells like ham right now”? As awkward as it seems, this is actually a common experience for many women. The vagina has a complex microbiome that can produce some unusual scents that we don’t typically associate with our bodies. Let’s break down the science behind this phenomenon and uncover some steps you can take for a healthy, fresh vagina.
It’s Normal for the Vagina to Have a Scent
First and foremost it’s important to understand that it is completely normal and common for the vagina to have a slight odor. This is not necessarily a sign that something is wrong. The vagina is home to numerous microorganisms including bacteria and yeast, that help maintain its healthy, balanced state. However, when certain populations of microbes grow, they can produce byproducts that give off faint scents. This is why sometimes a vagina may take on aromatic characteristics of meat, fish, cheese, or bread.
The most common sources of vaginal odors are:
-
Lactobacilli This bacteria helps keep the vaginal pH in an acidic state which prevents overgrowth of other microbes. However, lactobacilli release lactic acid which can smell like sour milk.
-
Gardnerella vaginalis: While not inherently harmful, overgrowth of this bacteria can lead to a fishy odor due to production of amines.
-
Candida albicans: Yeast is present in small amounts in the vagina but overgrowth leads to a yeast infection. The breakdown of glycogen produces a beer-like or bread-like smell.
When Should You See a Doctor?
While vaginal odors are normal, there are certain scenarios where a strong or unpleasant smell could be indicative of an underlying issue. See your doctor or gynecologist if you notice:
-
A very foul, fishy odor, especially if accompanied by gray, white or green discharge
-
A notable change in odor that does not resolve on its own
-
An odor that coincides with other symptoms like itching, burning, pain, rash or redness
-
An odor right after intercourse
-
An odor accompanied by vaginal bleeding between periods
These could be signs of bacterial vaginosis, trichomoniasis or even STDs like gonorrhea or chlamydia. Do not hesitate to get checked out to determine the cause and get proper treatment.
Tips for Preventing Odors
Here are some tips you can follow to keep vaginal odors at bay:
Practice good hygiene: Wash the external vaginal area with a gentle, unscented soap and water when you shower. Avoid harsh soaps or chemical products as these can upset the natural vaginal pH.
Wear breathable cotton underwear: Cotton allows more air circulation while materials like nylon trap heat and moisture, making the vagina a breeding ground for unwanted microbes.
Change pads/tampons frequently: Maximize airflow to the vagina by changing sanitary products every 4-6 hours during your period.
Avoid douching: Douching can interfere with the vagina’s healthy pH and microorganisms.
Eat yogurt and probiotics: Yogurt contains lactobacilli that can promote a healthy vaginal environment when consumed regularly. Probiotic supplements can help too.
Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water, as dehydration can potentially make odors more concentrated.
Consider vaginal probiotics: Ask your doctor about probiotic suppositories or oral supplements that introduce good bacteria to the vagina.
Maintain a healthy lifestyle: Get enough sleep, manage stress, and avoid smoking, all of which can throw off the natural vaginal environment.
When to See Your Doctor
While occasional changes in vaginal odor are normal, a persistent foul or fishy odor may be a sign of infection. See your gynecologist if odor is accompanied by other symptoms like discharge, burning, itching or pain. Don’t hesitate to discuss any concerns with your doctor, as they can help identify potential causes and recommend solutions for restoring a healthy vaginal environment. With the right prevention tips, any vagina can smell fresh and clean day after day.
A Fishy Vagina Smell
Possible Cause: Bacterial Vaginosis
“There are many different kinds of bacteria growing in your vagina,” explains Dr. Cullins. “These bacteria are completely normal and keep the vagina healthy. However, bacterial vaginosis (BV for short) is caused by an imbalance of different kinds of vaginal bacteria. Sometimes BV has no symptoms at all. Other times, itching, a strong fishy smell (especially after sex or washing with soap), and a thick, foamy discharge that is usually white or gray are signs. “.
Treatment: Your gynecologist can prescribe antibiotics to restore your vaginas pH balance. For now, stay away from douches and scented products, like tampons, because they can throw off the pH balance in your vagina.
Your Vagina Smells Like Onions or Garlic
Possible cause: Natural Body Odor
“If you eat a lot of onions or garlic, you may pass an onion or garlic smell in your urine, and the smell of your vaginal discharge may change for a short time,” says Dr. Nucatolah says. “Your discharge, vagina, and urine should smell normal again 24 to 48 hours after eating these strong foods.” The urethra, which goes from the bladder to outside the vulva, the vaginal opening, and the anus are all separate openings in people who have vaginas. However, they are all close to each other. It’s possible that your urine, feces, or anus is the source of the smell. Your vulva or vagina may smell like something else. The best thing to do is wash with water and soap and then try to figure out where the smell is coming from. “.
Treatment: Take a shower or bath and youll say bye-bye to the B.O. smell.
WHY DOES MY VAGINA SMELL?! – Dr. Rejuvenation Girl Talk
FAQ
Why do I smell meaty down there?
Why does my discharge smell like old meat?
What does bacterial vaginosis smell like?
What does a yeast infection smell like in a woman?