Vaginal Odour

Vaginal odour is a natural occurrence that affects all women throughout their lives. The vagina maintains a slightly acidic environment thanks to beneficial Lactobacilli bacteria that protect against harmful infections.

However, while some changes in scent are normal during menstruation, pregnancy, or after exercise and sexual activity, certain strong or unpleasant odours may signal underlying health concerns. Notably, a persistent fishy or bad smell from the vagina could indicate conditions like bacterial vaginosis or trichomoniasis requiring medical attention. Let's explore the causes of vaginal odours, when to be concerned, and effective ways to maintain proper vaginal health. 

What is Abnormal Vaginal Odour?

Every vagina produces a unique scent that varies throughout the menstrual cycle. However, certain odours signal potential health concerns that require attention. An abnormal vaginal odour typically presents as a strong, unfamiliar, and unpleasant smell that persists for several days.
The following characteristics distinguish abnormal vaginal odours:

• A strong fishy smell, indicating bacterial vaginosis or trichomoniasis
• A putrid odour resembling rotting meat, possibly due to a retained tampon
• Unusual smells accompanied by greyish-white, greenish, or yellowish discharge
• Persistent odours that do not resolve naturally

Additionally, an abnormal vaginal odour frequently appears alongside other symptoms. These accompanying signs include:

• Burning or itching sensations
• Vaginal swelling
• Pain around the pelvic area
• Discomfort during urination
• Redness in the genital region
• Unusual discharge consistency

What are the Causes of Vaginal Odour?

The pH balance within the vagina plays a crucial role in determining its odour. A healthy vaginal environment contains various bacteria, collectively known as vaginal flora, which maintain the proper acidity levels. Consequently, disrupting this delicate bacterial balance might result in unpleasant odours.

Here are some common vaginal odour causes:

• Bacterial Vaginosis (BV): This infection occurs through bacterial overgrowth, causing a distinctive fishy smell that intensifies after sexual activity. 
• Trichomoniasis: This parasitic infection produces a fishy or musty odour alongside a greenish-yellow discharge.
• Menopause-related Changes: As oestrogen levels decline, vaginal walls thin, and pH levels rise, making postmenopausal women more susceptible to infections.

Certain lifestyle factors might trigger changes in vaginal odour. These include:

• Tight-fitting clothing traps moisture against the skin
• Nutritional deficiencies, particularly in vitamins A, C, D, and E, calcium, folate, and beta-carotene
• A rectovaginal fistula allowing faecal matter to leak into the vagina

Some Normal Vaginal Odours

Some types of vaginal odour alterations are frequent and temporary in nature, commonly caused by variations in pH levels, hormone levels, stress, nutrition, and even menstruation.

• A slight sour or tart vaginal odour is associated with the presence of healthy vaginal flora.
• A mildly sweet odour may be a consequence of alterations in pH levels.
• Metallic vaginal odour is frequently observed during menstruation because of iron in menstrual blood.
• An ammonia-smelling odour can occur when there is residual urine in the vagina.
• Odour like body odor, is commonly seen during stress and more sweating.

It is worth noting that temporary odours normally go away without any interventions. However, in case of persistent bad odour, medical consultation is recommended.

How is Abnormal Vaginal Odour Diagnosed?

Physical examination forms the cornerstone of diagnosis, wherein doctors perform a pelvic exam to assess the condition. Throughout this process, doctors check for signs of infection or other abnormalities that might contribute to the unusual smell.

The diagnostic process typically involves multiple tests:

• Vaginal pH Testing: This fundamental test measures the acidity levels of vaginal secretions. A pH higher than usual might indicate bacterial vaginosis, although this test alone cannot confirm the diagnosis.
• Whiff Test: Doctors mix a sample of vaginal discharge with a unique solution. A strong fish-like smell after mixing confirms bacterial vaginosis.
• Wet Mount Test: This examination involves collecting a sample of vaginal discharge for laboratory analysis. The results come back as either normal or abnormal, with an abnormal result indicating the presence of bacterial infection.

How is Vaginal Odour Treated?

Antibiotics remain the primary treatment for bacterial vaginosis. In some instances, vaginal odour resolves independently without medical intervention. Healthcare providers often prescribe antibiotics such as clindamycin, metronidazole, or tinidazole to treat infections that can cause unpleasant vaginal odour. Proper vaginal smell treatment involves several key considerations:

• Avoiding self-medication with over-the-counter products
• Refraining from using douches or yeast infection treatments, which might worsen bacterial vaginosis
• Following prescribed medication schedules strictly

How can Vaginal Odour be Prevented?

Maintaining your vaginal health and preventing unwanted smells can be accomplished through some simple practices.

• Do Not Douche - Douche cleans the fluid from the vagina needed to keep it at a healthy pH balance and increase the chances of having an infection.
• Opt for Cotton - Use cotton panties and avoid tight-fitting clothes.
• Drink Enough Water - It is important to drink plenty of water so that your urine is diluted to avoid giving off an unpleasant smell.
• Protect Yourself - Always use latex or non-latex condoms along with non-flavoured lube during intercourse.
• Practice Good Hygiene - Rinse your vulva with warm water and soap. Change clothes when you have sweated. Proper hygiene practices include:
  • Using only mild, unscented soap and warm water to clean the vulva
  • Wiping from front to back after using the toilet
  • Changing clothes promptly after exercise
  • Avoiding prolonged wear of damp swimsuits
  • Changing underwear twice daily if experiencing extra discharge

When to See a Doctor

Women should contact their doctor immediately upon noticing these warning signs:

• Persistent burning sensations or itching
• Unusual vaginal discharge
• Strong fishy smell, which might indicate bacterial vaginosis
• Pain or irritation around the vaginal area

Pregnant women require special attention regarding vaginal health. Research shows that untreated vaginal conditions during pregnancy increase risks of several complications, including:

• Preterm birth
• Low birth weight
• Amniotic fluid infection

Home remedies for Vaginal Odours

Several essential oils prove beneficial for intimate hygiene:

• Tea Tree Oil: Mix 3-4 drops with one cup of warm water for external cleansing. This solution helps control yeast infections and should be used once daily for a week.
• Lavender Oil: Combine 1-10 drops with witch hazel and water for a gentle vaginal wash. Its pleasant scent works effectively against bacterial infections.
• Oregano Oil: Creates an effective topical spray for treating yeast infections and persistent odours.
• Peppermint Oil: Mix 2-5 drops with 200ml of water for a post-shower external spray.

Women should exercise these essential precautions while using these essential oils:

• Dilute essential oils with carrier oils to prevent irritation
• Perform patch tests before regular use
• Consult doctors before starting any treatment
• Never apply oils internally
• Discontinue use if experiencing discomfort

Conclusion

Vaginal odour remains a common concern affecting women throughout their lives. Most cases of abnormal vaginal odour stem from bacterial imbalances that respond well to medical treatment. Doctors can diagnose the underlying cause through various tests and prescribe appropriate medications, typically antibiotics for bacterial vaginosis. Additionally, lifestyle changes like wearing breathable cotton underwear and maintaining proper hygiene help prevent recurring issues.

Women should remember that the vagina naturally maintains its cleanliness. Rather than using harsh products or douches, gentle cleaning with warm water usually suffices. However, persistent unpleasant odours warrant prompt medical attention, especially when accompanied by unusual discharge or discomfort.

FAQs

1. How can I prevent vaginal odour? 

To prevent vaginal odour, maintain good hygiene by washing the vulva with mild soap and warm water, wearing breathable cotton underwear, changing out damp clothes promptly, and avoiding douching or using scented feminine products. Staying hydrated & adhering to a balanced diet can also help.

2. What causes abnormal vaginal odour? 

Various factors, including bacterial vaginosis, trichomoniasis, hormonal changes, certain foods, and poor hygiene practices can cause abnormal vaginal odour. In some cases, it may indicate more serious conditions like sexually transmitted infections or, rarely, certain types of cancer.

3. When should I see a doctor about vaginal odour? 

Consult a doctor if you experience persistent abnormal vaginal odour, especially if accompanied by itching, burning, unusual discharge, or pain. Pregnant women should seek medical attention promptly, as untreated vaginal conditions can lead to complications.

4. Are there effective home remedies for vaginal odour? 

Some home remedies may help manage vaginal odour, such as using diluted tea tree oil or lavender oil for external cleansing. However, using these remedies cautiously and consulting a doctor before trying any new treatment is crucial.

5. How is abnormal vaginal odour diagnosed and treated? 

Diagnosis typically involves a pelvic examination, pH testing, and laboratory analysis of vaginal discharge. Treatment includes antibiotics for bacterial infections. Sometimes, lifestyle changes and proper hygiene practices can resolve the issue.

6. What to drink to stop viginal smell?

It's always important to drink plenty of water for good vaginal health, but if you have a smell that persists, you should see your healthcare professional because this might mean that you have an infection.

7. How to remove fishy smell?

If your vaginal smell is fishy, you probably have bacterial vaginosis and require some medical assistance with it. Do not use douching because this can worsen your situation.

8. How to avoid bad odor in private parts?

Keep yourself clean, wear cotton underwear, use only unscented products, and see a doctor if you have persistent odor.

9. What is bacterial vaginosis?

Bacterial vaginosis is a frequent infection of the vagina that occurs because of an imbalance of bacteria in the vagina, causing thin discharge and a fishy smell.

10. How do I balance my pH to get rid of fishy smell?

You need to treat the cause of the problem in order to balance your pH and get rid of the odor. Your doctor can prescribe antibiotics for you.

Dr. Neena Agrawal

MBBS, MS, FICOG, Diploma in Gynaecology, Endoscopy
CARE CHL Hospitals, Indore

To Book an Appointment, call:

+91 406 810 6585

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