Vaginal Health: Remedies And Treatments For Vaginal Odor (2024)

The vagina is naturally full of bacteria. Studies have shown that women of reproductive age have billions of bacteria in their vaginas, and that’s not a bad thing[1]Chen X, Lu Y, Chen T, Li R. The Female Vaginal Microbiome in Health and Bacterial Vaginosis. Front. Cell Infect. Microbiol. 2021;11:631972. . Common issues like bacterial vaginosis (BV) and yeast infections only occur when the balance of bacteria is disrupted, according to the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG).

Every once in a while, you may notice an unusual odor. It makes sense when you think about how much bacteria is present in the vagina—but when should you worry about vaginal odor? Here’s everything you need to know.

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What Is Vaginal Odor?

Vaginal odor is a type of odor that comes from the vagina. Every person with a vagina has some kind of odor, according to Meleen Chuang, M.D., a clinical associate professor in the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology at NYU Grossman School of Medicine in New York City, who adds that it’s normal for a woman’s vaginal odor to change throughout her menstrual cycle.

“Normal vaginal odor is mild and can vary throughout a woman’s menstrual cycle,” she says. “It might be described as slightly musky or similar to the scent of yogurt, honeydew or a loaf of bread (yeasty). However, it’s important to note that every person’s body is unique, so what may be normal for one person might not be for another.”

With that in mind, there are certain odors to pay attention to. “Abnormal vaginal odor can suggest underlying conditions such as bacterial vaginosis, yeast infections, sexually transmitted infections or poor hygiene,” adds Dr. Chuang. “If you notice a strong, unpleasant, fishy or foul odor, call your OB-GYN.”

Vaginal Odor Causes

Commons causes of vaginal odor include:

Bacterial Vaginosis

Bacterial vaginosis occurs when there’s an overgrowth of the bacteria that live in the vagina. Symptoms often include increased discharge and a fishy odor, according to the ACOG, and can be treated with antibiotics prescribed by a medical professional.

Yeast Infections

Yeast infections occur due to yeast overgrowth in the vagina, according to the ACOG. A yeast infection can happen after taking a round of antibiotics, using a lubricant or spermicide or pregnancy. While burning, itching and a thick, clumpy discharge similar to cottage cheese may occur, another common symptom is a yeasty or bread-like odor, according to Dr. Chuang—hence the name.

If you notice this odor, speak with your doctor, as yeast infections are easily treatable.

Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs)

Sexually transmitted infections can be another cause of abnormal vaginal odors. “Certain STIs, like trichomoniasis and chlamydia, can cause changes in vaginal odor,” says Dr. Chuang.

In the case of both trichomoniasis and chlamydia, you may notice a fishy smell along with yellow or green discharge. Your vagina may also itch or be sore, and you might experience discomfort when urinating, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

Menstrual Cycle Changes

Menstrual cycle changes can be another cause of vaginal odor, explains Courtenay Poucher, M.D., a board-certified OB-GYN based in Valencia, California. “Normal, healthy vaginal odors can be present just before and after a woman’s period; the cervical mucus changes and even a small amount of blood in the discharge can give the vagina a more metallic scent,” Dr. Poucher explains. And when you’re actually bleeding, your vaginal odor will be more metallic as well.

Poor Hygiene

Because the vagina can clean itself naturally for the most part, you don’t need soap—a little warm water is all you need, according to the ACOG. And, Dr. Chuang notes, it’s important to avoid using harsh chemicals or douching as they can disrupt the natural balance of bacteria in the vagina.

Foreign Objects in the Vagina

One cause of abnormal vaginal odors is the introduction of objects into the vagina that shouldn’t be there—or at least not for a long time. “In my practice I have removed week-old tampons, menstrual cups, bits of food items, a plastic piece from a bottle of lubrication, condoms and much more,” says Dr. Poucher. “Few of these women were aware that they had left anything inside their vagina. Beyond the risk of toxic shock, like in the case of tampons, foreign items can cause irritation, infection and foul smells in the vagina.”

Sweat

Excessive sweating or prolonged moisture in the vaginal area can create an environment where bacteria thrive, leading to odor, says Dr. Chuang. “It’s important to wear breathable underwear and avoid tight-fitting clothes to allow proper airflow,” she says. Showering after exercise can keep bacteria in balance, too.

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How to Get Rid of Vaginal Odor

Some vaginal odors do not need to be addressed at all and are the normal result of healthy bacteria in the vagina and changes in the menstrual cycle.

But when it comes to getting rid of abnormal odors, Cheruba Prabakar, M.D., a board-certified OB-GYN based in Lafayette, California and Luna Daily medical advisor, says identifying the root cause is key.

“If the odor is fishy, that likely signifies a bacterial vaginosis infection that can be treated with antibiotics. Yeast infections can also be treated with medication,” says Dr. Prabakar. “These are prescribed by your doctor after an evaluation.”

Proper hygiene is another way to get rid of vaginal odor, particularly if it’s sweat, hygiene or foreign object-related, Dr. Poucher says. “Shower daily and wash your hands before touching your vagina,” she says. “Wear breathable, well-fitting underwear, ideally cotton.”

How to Prevent Vaginal Odor

If you want to stop vaginal odor from popping up in the first place, here are some prevention methods to keep in mind.

Shower Daily

Showering daily, particularly if you exercise and sweat a lot, can be a helpful way to prevent vaginal odor. But remember, a little warm water is all you need. “Make sure to wash the area from front to back to avoid spreading bacteria from the anus to the vagina,” Dr. Chuang says.

Drink Enough Water

Hydration can be incredibly helpful when it comes to keeping vaginal odor normal. “Drinking plenty of water helps maintain overall vaginal health by flushing out toxins and promoting proper hydration,” says Dr. Chuang.

Eat a Healthy Diet

Like hydration, eating a healthy diet is important for vaginal health. “A healthy diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains and lean proteins can help support a healthy vaginal environment,” says Dr. Chuang. “Avoid excessive consumption of sugary or processed foods, as they can contribute to imbalances in vaginal bacteria.”

Avoid Douches and Scented Products

While douches and scented products were once thought to improve the smell of the vagina, experts say they’re a bad idea. “There are many suppositories, douches, creams and lotions that promise to ‘take away vaginal odor,’” says Dr. Prabakar. “While their promises may seem enticing, it is important to remember that some vaginal odor is normal. When it comes to vaginal health, less is more. Protect your vaginal microbiome.”

Avoid Moistened Wipes that Contain Alcohol

Moistened wipes that contain alcohol should be avoided when it comes to vaginal health. “Skip moistened wipes that contain alcohol as they will dry the vagina out and create more irritation,” says Dr. Poucher.

Wear Breathable Underwear

Breathable underwear are important when it comes to maintaining a balanced pH in the vagina. “Opt for underwear made from natural fabrics like cotton, as they allow for better airflow and help keep the vaginal area dry,” suggests Dr. Chuang. “Avoid tight-fitting underwear or synthetic materials that can trap moisture and promote bacterial growth.”

Vaginal Odor Treatments to Avoid

There are products available that promise to improve or eliminate vaginal odor, but they should be avoided.

“Douching involves rinsing the vagina with a mixture of water and other substances like vinegar, baking soda or fragranced solutions,” says Dr. Chuang. “However, douching can disrupt the natural balance of bacteria in the vagina and increase the risk of infections. It is not recommended as a treatment for vaginal odor.”

Scented products should also be avoided. “Avoid using scented products like soaps, lotions or feminine hygiene sprays in the vaginal area,” says Dr. Chuang. “These products can irritate the delicate tissues and disrupt the natural pH balance, leading to more odor and potential infections.”

Finally, scented pads and tampons—which can be found at most drugstores—should be skipped for the sake of your vaginal health and its odor. “Using perfumed pads or tampons can also disrupt the natural pH balance of the vagina and increase the risk of irritation and infection,” says Dr. Chuang. “It is best to use unscented and hypoallergenic products.”

When to Call a Doctor

If you notice a mild but slightly abnormal odor, it’s fine to wait a day or two to see if it clears up. But if you notice a persistent or very strong odor, Dr. Chuang recommends contacting your physician or OB-GYN. “A strong fishy or foul smell could indicate an infection or other underlying medical condition that requires treatment,” she says.

Other changes in the vagina beyond a strong odor could warrant a call to the doctor as well. “If you experience changes in vaginal discharge, such as an increase in amount, changes in color (yellow, green, gray), or a thick, cottage cheese-like consistency, along with an odor, it is important to seek medical advice,” says Dr. Chuang. “And if you are experiencing accompanying symptoms like itching, burning sensation, redness or irritation in the vaginal area, along with odor, it could be an STI.”

Discomfort or pain during sex is another reason to call your doctor, she says, particularly if it is accompanied by an unusual odor.

While a strong vaginal odor isn’t pleasant, most issues are treatable by a medical professional. Instead of trying to address the issue yourself, talk to your doctor if you’re suddenly dealing with a vaginal odor that’s abnormal for you.

Vaginal Health: Remedies And Treatments For Vaginal Odor (2024)
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