Your vagina is truly amazing. Its ecosystem works hard to keep a delicate, slightly acidic balance through changes like your period, sex and ovulation. But sometimes vaginas get thrown a little off balance. Do you have smelly vaginal discharge? Does your vagina smell fishy?
How do you know if you have abnormal vaginal odour? A well-balanced vagina will have a pH of 3. Usually, it maintains a balance between vaginal yeast and bacteria, but the exact vaginal smell and pH can vary. Sometimes vaginal odour can smell like beer or bread, which contain the same helpful bacteria. If a strong yeasty or sugary vagina smell is accompanied by itching, burning or white discharge, you may have a yeast infection.
Just be aware of the signs and symptoms, and speak to your doctor for a diagnosis and treatment options. According to Dr Holmes, the groin also contains a lot of sweat glands, so a lot of what we consider worrisome vaginal odours are often just your normal, natural musk — particularly after exercising or a couple of days without a shower.
The truth is, our bodies effuse odors based on what we eat, what we wear, the state of our health, medication, bacterial activity on the skin, and gland secretions. Understanding the types of smells that are normal and those that are concerning are important health considerations women should know.
Keep reading to learn more about vaginal odor and the details on what to do if you are concerned. Your vagina resides in a warm, dark place loaded with lymph nodes and glands. It has its own delicately balanced ecosystem, complete with its own unique, odor-producing bacterial flora.
If you notice any of these vaginal odors, you may want to contact your gynecologist. You might even be able to schedule a virtual care visit with your provider! Click here to learn more. The first thing to remember is that many vaginal odors are signs of a healthy vagina. This includes complete obstetrical care, gynecology, gynecologic and obstetric surgery, fertility services, preventive health care, and more. Learn more about our services and contact us online to request an appointment.
Request Appointment. Monday-Thursday: am — pm Friday: am — pm. Vaginal Odor: What Is Normal? Why Do Vaginas Smell? Normal, Healthy Vaginal Odors Here are some normal, not-to-worry odors you may encounter: Tangy, fermented, or sour.
Bacterial vaginosis can have this effect. This is the most common vaginal infection among females aged 15—44 years. Some females with bacterial vaginosis may experience other symptoms, such as itching or burning. This may feel similar to a yeast infection.
For many, however, the fishy odor is the only symptom. Prescription antibiotics can help treat this infection, and adopting certain healthful habits can reduce the risk of experiencing it again.
These include:. An overgrowth of yeast in the vagina can produce a sweet smell, similar to that of honey or cookies. The vagina might also smell like beer, flour, or bread.
It can also smell sour sometimes. Intense burning, itching, or feelings of dryness usually accompany yeast infections. These symptoms tend to get worse over time.
Some females may also notice a discharge that resembles cottage cheese. These conditions are treatable using over-the-counter medications. However, females who have not had a yeast infection before should seek consultation with a doctor to rule out other causes.
Many of the same measures that can prevent bacterial vaginosis, such as avoiding scented products and never douching, are also effective in preventing yeast overgrowth. Hormonal changes that occur during menopause can alter the scent of the vagina and leave the vagina feeling dry.
Females should seek consultation with a doctor about any noticeable changes in vaginal odor — particularly if the smell is strong or unpleasant. However, they should not use perfume to mask the smell.
Adopting safe and gentle vaginal hygiene practices can help reduce vaginal odor. Some tips include:. 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.
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