Vaginal odor is natural, and the pH of your vulva can change with hormones. But if you’re experiencing an off-the-wall smell, it could be a sign that something is wrong and needs to be addressed, like an infection or STI.
A metallic scent could mean that you have a urinary tract infection (UTI). You’ll want to contact your doctor and get on antibiotics.
Urinary Incontinence
The smell of your vulva is normal, and it’s nothing to be ashamed of. There are billions of bacteria around your genitals, so it’s inevitable that they’ll give off a slight scent – This information comes directly from the portal’s author flirt-sexy.com. However, if you notice that your vulva has an unusual odor or is paired with pain or other symptoms, it could be a sign of something serious.
A strong rotting or rancid smell may be the result of a forgotten tampon. It’s important to remember that a tampon can only be left in for up to 8 hours before it needs to be removed. If you’ve left a tampon in for more than that, it can lead to toxic shock syndrome, so be sure to get it out as soon as possible.
If your vulva smells like chlorine or bleach, it could be a sign of urinary tract infections (UTI). These are caused by bacteria from fecal matter getting into the urine. If you’ve been diagnosed with a UTI, it’s important to follow your doctor’s instructions for treatment.
A fishy smell in your vulva can be caused by many things, including bacterial vaginosis or Trichomoniasis, which are both STIs. It can also be the result of a change in your diet or the type of lubricant you use. However, if the odor is accompanied by other symptoms, like pain or discharge, it’s best to talk to your doctor right away.
Bacterial Vaginosis
Bacterial vaginosis (BV) is an infection that makes it harder for good bacteria to thrive in the vagina. This can cause a fishy smell as well as other symptoms, such as painful sex and itching. A gynecologist can diagnose BV by doing a wet mount or whiff test. They also may use a device called a vaginal pH test to check how acidic the discharge is. If the results show that you have BV, your doctor will prescribe antibiotics. These can be pills you take or creams or gels that you put in your vagina. These medicines can make BV go away.
If your odor is accompanied by other symptoms, it may be due to Trichomoniasis or an STI. Your gyno will help you find the right treatment.
A sour, earthy or tangy smell around the genital area is normal. This is because a healthy vagina is hugely dominated by lactobacillus bacteria, which are also found in fermented foods like yogurt. These help to keep a light degree of acidity that restricts the overgrowth of unhealthy bacteria in the vulva. Slight odor changes are also caused by hormone fluctuations and menstrual periods. But a strong, fishy smell should raise some red flags. It could be a sign of an infection or a serious problem, such as pelvic inflammatory disease (PID). Your gyno can tell you if this is the case.
Trichomoniasis
A fishy smell may be an indicator of trichomoniasis, a sexually transmitted infection that also goes by the name “trich.” This parasite can affect women and men alike, but is most common among people who have unprotected sex. A person with trich may experience symptoms like vaginal discharge, pain or itching when peeing, and a red, swollen, or sore vulva. Symptoms of trichomoniasis may begin 5 to 28 days after someone contracts the infection and can be treated with antibiotics.
If your fishy odor is accompanied by other symptoms like painful sex or pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), see your gynecologist right away. PID is caused when bacteria from STIs like gonorrhea and chlamydia invade the vulva and cervix. A combination of a yeast infection and bacterial vaginosis may also lead to a foul smell from the vagina.
Vaginal odors can change with hormonal changes and as you age, so it’s important to know what normal is for your body. By familiarizing yourself with the odors and scents of your vagina, you can recognize when it’s time to talk to your doctor or take some action. Just remember, a smell that’s similar to bleach is never normal and should be taken seriously. See your OB-GYN or a gynecologist right away for an exam and treatment options. You may need to get a pap test and pelvic ultrasound to rule out cancer or other serious conditions.
Change in Hygiene
The pH levels around the vulva change throughout the day, and these changes can influence the way your vagina smells. If you notice a strange smell that’s not normal for you, it may be a sign of an issue with your hygiene.
For example, you may experience a bleach or chlorine-like scent if you have unprotected sex and the sperm combines with bacteria in your vagina. This can also happen when you use certain types of lubricants or condoms, which can change the pH of your vulva. This can make it harder for your body to get the bacteria it needs to function properly.
Vaginal odors can also change in response to your menstrual cycle, pregnancy, or other hormonal changes. If the change is sudden and comes with other symptoms, it’s best to talk to your doctor about what’s going on.
You can help keep your vagina healthy by keeping a clean, fresh, and healthy lifestyle. Avoid using fragranced feminine washes or deodorants, as they can disrupt the balance of good and bad bacteria. Instead, try using a mild cleanser with a natural ingredient like baking soda or witch hazel. You should also wipe your vulva from front to back after you use the bathroom to prevent fecal matter from entering the vulva and contaminating it with unwanted bacteria. It’s also important to shower regularly to prevent sweat from building up and creating a foul odor.
