TheVαgina naturally has its own unique smell. This smell may be stronger or more detectable at certain times, such as during menstruation or when a woman is sεxually aroused.
The smell can vary from sweet to earthy, musky, fishy, or even metallic. While some may assume that this smell is unpleasant and consider it a sign of poor hygiene, there is nothing unhealthy about it. In fact, the smell is not only completely natural and normal, but it is also an important part of women’s health.
According to Healthline, The smell of the vαgina is largely due to the hormones estrogen and testosterone, as well as to bacteria and other substances normally present in a healthy vαgina.
The vαgina produces a thin milky discharge throughout a woman’s cycle, which can be slightly acidic and may also influence scent.
This is due to the variations in levels of estrogen, which affects the production of biosynthesized pheromones that act as communication signals among members of the same species. In other words, the vαgina has its own natural odour, which is believed to be part of an internal communication system that helps the body remain balanced and healthy.
The bacteria that live in the vαgina have an important role to play in maintaining a healthy vàginal environment and odour. These bacteria exist in balance with the other components of the ecosystem, such as fungi and pH levels, to help prevent and fight infection. Lactobacillus bacteria, for instance, produce lactic acid, which can help maintain an acidic environment in the vVgina.
This acidic environment helps to protect it from infections and can even influence the scent of the vαgina. While it is normal to experience variations in scent throughout the month due to changes in hormone levels and other factors, it is important to recognize the signs of an unhealthy vαginal odour.
If the scent of the vαgina is abnormally strong, particularly if it is accompanied by other symptoms such as itching, burning, and pain during urination, it is important to seek medical attention. This could be a sign of an infection, such as a bacterial infection or sèxually transmitted infection (STI).
The female vàgina naturally has its own unique odor that varies from person to person. This odor is completely normal and typically not a cause for concern.
The odor is due to the hormones, bacteria, and other substances that are present and in balance in a healthy vàgina.
In most cases, changes in the scent of the vàgina are normal and often due to hormones or other factors. If the scent is unusually strong, however, it is important to see a doctor to check for potential infections or other medical conditions.
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You can put healthy habits in place to keep your vulva clean and protect your vàgina from infection.
- Practice good hygiene. Shower regularly and only use mild, unscented soap and warm water to clean your vulva. Bathe and put on a clean outfit shortly after exercising so that you’re not sitting for too long in hot, sweaty clothes or a damp swimsuit. Warm and wet environments are ideal places for harmful bacteria growth.
- Don’t douche. Douching can upset the pH levels in your vagina and make you vulnerable to infection. If you already have a vaginal infection, douching can force the bacteria deeper inside your body and cause a more severe infection, like pelvic inflammatory disease (PID). PID is a severe infection that can cause infertility.
- Wear light, breathable clothing. Avoid wearing clothes that are too tight on your vulva, like thongs. Instead, wear cotton underwear that won’t hold in heat and moisture.
- Drink plenty of water. Your vagina may have a strong ammonia smell if you’re dehydrated. Without enough water, the waste material in your urine can become especially concentrated and foul-smelling. Water can help with hydration and eliminate the smell.
- Protect your vagina (and vaginal flora) during sex. Wear condoms to reduce your risk of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and other infections, like BV, that can disrupt your vagina’s pH levels. If you’re using a lubricant, choose only unscented and unflavored ones to prevent vaginal irritation.
When should I seek treatment for abnormal vaginal odor?
If you’re experiencing prolonged abnormal vaginal odor or odor accompanied by discharge, burning and itching, you should see a healthcare provider. Untreated vaginitis can lead to vaginal infections that can spread to your uterus or fallopian tubes. Vaginitis can also increase your risk of contracting STIs.
You should especially seek medical care if you’re pregnant. Pregnant people with vaginitis or vaginal odor are at higher risk of preterm birth, low birth weight, amniotic fluid infection and other complications.
How do I stop smelling down there?
Eliminating the smell begins with figuring out what’s causing the odor. The odor may be fleeting, a change in smell related to your stress levels, menstrual cycle, etc. In that case, you won’t need treatment. Simple lifestyle changes related to maintaining your vagina’s natural pH may do the trick if the problem is hygiene-related. A healthcare provider can prescribe medications to clear up an infection if vaginitis is the culprit.
Why do I have a strong odor down there?
A strong vaginal odor may be a sign of vaginitis, or it may be a temporary smell related to your hygiene, lifestyle or other changes. Take note of whether you have other symptoms. If the odor is related to an infection, you’ll usually notice other changes, like vaginal itching, burning and discharge.
What does BV smell like?
BV smells like stinky fish. It’s the smell most people associate with an unpleasant vaginal odor.
A note from Cleveland Clinic
Many people are self-conscious that their vagina smells bad — or worry if it has a scent at all. But healthy vaginas are supposed to have a slight odor. Think of your vaginal scent as a sign that your vaginal flora is functioning as it should by keeping your vagina infection-free. But if you’re experiencing an unpleasant vaginal odor alongside other symptoms, it may be time to see your provider. A course of antibiotics is usually all it takes to get rid of the odor and return your vagina to its natural scent.
