Some vaginal odor is normal and expected. Most women smell musky or meaty naturally, but this varies from person to person.
Your sense of smell can change as you age or in response to certain stimuli. Some factors that can temporarily change vaginal odor include:
Normal sweating
Sexual activity
Menstrual cycle
In addition to the effects of the menstrual cycle itself on odor, vaginal odor can vary throughout the menstrual cycle.
Many women suffer from misinformation and insecurity about vaginal odor. Normal odors are nothing to worry about, and minor changes in odor should resolve on their own. In fact, self-treatment of vaginal symptoms can sometimes cause problems that weren’t there before.
However, if you have a strong, unpleasant odor from your vagina that lasts for several days, it could be a sign of a health problem.
Common causes of abnormal vaginal odor include:
Bacterial vaginosis, an infection caused by bacterial overgrowth
Trichomoniasis, a sexually transmitted disease caused by parasites
The tampon stayed in place for a long time
Poor hygiene
Bacterial vaginosis and trichomoniasis often cause a fishy or chemical smell, while a forgotten tampon can smell like rotting.
Ways and treatments to get rid of vaginal odor
If you are concerned about vaginal odor, you need to eliminate the cause. Good hygiene is the key to avoiding health problems and abnormal odors.
Wash often
Regular cleaning is important, but don’t go too far. Don’t be fooled by advertising that you need expensive products to stay clean. Because the vagina is very acidic, it kills bad bacteria. Only warm water is needed to wash it off. In fact, some soaps can make the condition worse, altering the environment and causing bacteria to multiply.
Avoid scented soaps and deodorants. Use a mild soap that does not alter the pH level to wash the outer folds of the vagina.
Wear loose, cotton underwear
Straps and lace are not the best clothes for women’s hygiene. Pay special attention to what you wear to sleep. Consider not wearing underwear or basic cotton. Avoid tight underwear, panties and girdles.
Maintain a healthy weight
Often, “vaginal odor” does not come from the vagina at all. Due to excess weight, increased flesh in the folds and inner thighs is the basis for the growth of bacteria.
Switch to tampons or menstrual cups
Toiletries usually have a more noticeable smell. Try switching to a cup or tampon during your period, but make sure to change regularly.
Use a condom and urinate after sex
Semen irritates the vagina, causing odor and discharge. Avoid showering after sex. Simply urinate to clear the foreign matter.