How to Manage Vaginal Odor and Understand What’s Normal

It’s completely normal for your vagina to have a natural scent and that scent can shift throughout your cycle, during pregnancy, or even after sex. But if you've noticed a stronger-than-usual odor and you're not sure whether it's typical or a sign of something more, you’re not alone. While certain smells are harmless, others may signal an infection that requires medical attention. Here’s how to identify what’s normal, what’s not, and what you can do about it.

What Causes Vaginal Odor in the First Place?

Vaginal odor is often linked to pH balance and the mix of bacteria naturally present in the vagina. Factors like hormone levels, sweat, certain foods, medications, or even tight clothing can alter the scent temporarily. In many cases, these changes are harmless and manageable with basic care.

Common contributors to vaginal odor include:

• Hormonal changes during menstruation, pregnancy, or menopause

• Sweat and moisture buildup from exercise or wearing tight clothing

• Dietary changes, especially garlic, onions, and spicy foods

• Medications, such as antibiotics or hormone treatments

• Poor hygiene or delayed clothing changes after workouts or swimming

Simple Steps to Reduce Vaginal Odor

If your odor isn’t accompanied by other symptoms like itching, discharge, or burning, it may not be a cause for concern. Try these science-backed tips to reduce or manage vaginal odor naturally:

• Shower regularly using warm water to gently cleanse the vulva (the outer area). Avoid inserting soap or cleansing products into the vagina itself.

• Wear loose, breathable underwear, preferably cotton, and avoid tight leggings or synthetic fabrics that trap moisture.

• Stay hydrated drinking at least 9 cups of water daily can help flush out toxins and reduce ammonia-like odors.

• Use tampons or menstrual cups during your period instead of pads, which may trap odor.

• Add probiotics to your routine through supplements or foods like yogurt and fermented vegetables, which may help maintain a healthy vaginal microbiome.

• Empty your bladder after sex to help reduce bacteria and moisture that can lead to odor.

• Skip douching and scented feminine products, which can disrupt your vagina’s natural balance and make odors worse.

When Odor Is a Sign of Something More

If the odor smells fishy, rotten, or is especially strong and is accompanied by symptoms like irritation, unusual discharge, itching, or pain it may signal an infection that requires treatment. Common causes include:

• Bacterial Vaginosis (BV): Often causes a fishy smell with gray or white discharge and burning during urination.

• Trichomoniasis: A sexually transmitted infection (STI) that can lead to frothy discharge and a strong odor.

• Yeast Infections: Typically cause a sweet, yeasty smell, thick white discharge, and itching.

• Cervical cancer: Rarely, vaginal odor can stem from cancer-related tissue changes, especially if accompanied by abnormal bleeding or pain.

Medical Conditions and Medications That Can Contribute

Certain chronic health conditions and medications can also influence vaginal health and odor. These include:

• Type 2 diabetes, thyroid disorders, or kidney disease

• Obesity, which can increase sweat and bacterial growth in skin folds

• Oral contraceptives, hormone therapy, or steroids

• SGLT2 inhibitors like empagliflozin, which are used to treat diabetes

If you're experiencing persistent or concerning symptoms, see your healthcare provider for a proper diagnosis. They may recommend:

• Antibiotics for BV or trichomoniasis

• Antifungal medications for yeast infections

• Changing contraceptives, such as removing an IUD if it's contributing to BV

• Adjusting medications if they're contributing to infections

Takeaway Tips for a Healthy Vagina

• Keep the area dry and clean, especially after exercise or swimming

• Avoid harsh soaps, douches, or fragranced wipes

• Support healthy bacteria with probiotics and balanced nutrition

• Address health issues like diabetes, obesity, or hormone imbalances

• Always consult your doctor if symptoms are new, worsening, or accompanied by pain, discharge, or bleeding

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