9 Vaginal Odor Eliminators You Should Avoid

Just like every part of our body has a distinctive smell, such as our mouth and feet, the vagina also has its own smell. However, when it becomes too harsh and unpleasant, it may indicate that something is wrong in the body. Vaginal odor can be caused by an infection.

Overgrowth of yeast (fungi) or vaginal bacteria, or infections such as bacterial vaginosis (BV) and candidiasis, can change the characteristics of vaginal discharge and therefore cause a foul odor. This is an unpleasant situation. Those who have already encountered it know what a discomfort it is.

Characteristics of discharge in a healthy woman

Discharge with a slight sour odor may be normal in the second phase of the cycle in a healthy woman of reproductive age. In all other cases, as well as in the presence of itching and burning, it is better to see a doctor.

Teenagers before menstruation

Normally, their discharge is scanty and may be whitish. A few months before the start of the first critical days, the amount of leucorrhoea increases, it becomes mucus-like, transparent or whitish.

Women before menopause

The nature of the discharge depends on the phase of the menstrual cycle and is determined by the hormonal status of the woman.

Cycle phase	Nature of the discharge	What is the reason	Standard options
First (immediately after menstruation)	Whitish, scanty, without pathological odor	Estrogen background	They can be almost unnoticeable, and when dry, leave small yellow marks on the laundry.
Ovulation	Abundant, mucous, similar to the white of a chicken egg, sometimes described as watery due to its high viscosity, odorless	Estrogenic and gestagenic background, appear only with the maturation of the dominant follicle and ovulation	If there is no ovulation, the discharge may not be so “indicative”; sometimes traces (or streaks) of blood may appear in it, which is not a pathology
Second phase	Immediately after ovulation, the amount of discharge decreases, it becomes thicker, not so viscous, but sticky, and a sour smell is allowed	Progestational background	May be whitish

During menopause

Due to the decline of ovarian function and a decrease in estrogen levels, vaginal discharge also changes. Their number decreases significantly (women often even note dry mucous membranes), they are the same throughout the entire time, whitish.

During pregnancy

The discharge also differs in pregnant women, which is due to the special hormonal background. Immediately after conception, a woman may notice the appearance of leucorrhoea, the amount of which may increase or decrease during pregnancy. Light white discharge is the norm, which indicates the predominance of gestagens, which is necessary for successful pregnancy.

The appearance of mucus in the discharge may be a consequence of increased estrogen levels and may be a sign of a threatened miscarriage. This nature is allowed only on the eve of childbirth.

In any case, the discharge should not be accompanied by any unpleasant symptoms for the woman (itching, burning) or cause discomfort. At the end of the day, the trace of vaginal discharge on the underwear should be no more than 3-5 cm in diameter.

Symptoms

Of course, the main symptom is the appearance of a strong smell of fish or onions, but these manifestations may be accompanied by the appearance of the following symptoms:

discharge from clear to yellowish. May be accompanied by the smell of sour milk. In some female representatives they may not stand out at all, while in others they are abundant;
itching – often observed during menstruation;
pain during sexual intercourse;
sticking together of the labia minora - this occurs with a strong secretion of purulent fluid;
burning when urinating is a rather rare symptom, which may indicate irritation of the mucous membrane;
discomfort in the lower abdomen;
inflammation of the uterine appendages.

In addition, the smell from the vagina may differ, and speak for itself about problems in the female body. Thus:

the smell of onions indicates the penetration of bacteria;
feeling the smell of urine in the vagina - frequent stressful situations or obesity;
rotten - inflammation;
sperm – changes in microflora;
itching and sour smell – inflammation;
acetone – diabetes mellitus;
garlic – excessive consumption of it;
iron – detection of blood impurities in secretions;
The sweet smell of the vagina appears when eating a lot of sweet fruits.

It is best to start treatment from the moment the first symptoms are detected in order to prevent the spread of infection. If after childbirth the smell and discharge do not go away on their own, it is best to consult a doctor.

Causes of discharge with odor

A healthy woman may have discharge with a not very strong sour odor. The appearance of other “flavors” is a consequence of pathological processes in the vagina:

microflora disturbance;
sexual infections;
cancer of the cervix and body of the uterus, vagina;
foreign body (eg, vaginal ring, pessary);
inflammatory processes in the genital organs;
allergies to personal hygiene items;
lack of hygiene;
excessive sweating.

Strong discharge that smells bad should alert a woman and become a reason for an emergency visit to the doctor. As a rule, the cause of this condition lies in serious illnesses.

List of possible complications

It is necessary to observe the rules of personal hygiene to avoid the occurrence of unpleasant odor from the vagina, if it is not associated with diseases of the female genital organs. If you suspect a disease, you should consult a gynecologist.

Self-medication is unacceptable. This can lead to the transition of the disease to the chronic stage and various complications. Any disturbance that affects the vaginal microflora weakens the natural protective functions of the female reproductive system. Foul odors from the vagina are characteristic of many diseases caused by bacteria or of an inflammatory nature.

Such pathological conditions can have a sluggish course and be asymptomatic, except for the smell. At the same time, they can lead to complications such as adhesions in the fallopian tubes, polycystic ovarian disease, problems with conception and gestation.

What does discharge in women smell and say, depending on color?

Based on the color of a woman’s discharge and what it smells like, we can assume what caused such changes - the onset of menstruation, an infectious process, and others.

Brown

May be observed:

before and after menstruation is normal;
as a symptom of endometriosis - in this case, brown discharge is often called “dirty”, it is insignificant (spotting), appears a few days before menstruation and then continues after it;
if there are polyps in the uterine cavity, brown discharge may appear in the middle of the cycle, or have no regularity and appear suddenly, or after physical activity or sex;
during pregnancy - in the early and late stages, brown discharge most often appears as a sign of a threat of miscarriage.

Brown discharge, which is accompanied by an unpleasant odor, may indicate an active infectious process in the genitals.

Pink

Normally, they may appear as the first sign of the onset of menstruation. They may be a concern during pregnancy (as a threat of termination), as well as in the presence of inflammatory processes in the vagina and uterus, pathological formations (for example, polyps).

Greens

Always indicate some kind of infection. Most often, green discharge occurs when:

bacterial vaginosis - then there are few of them, and they are accompanied by an unpleasant fishy odor;
trichomonas colpitis - in addition to color, the discharge becomes foamy due to the formation of gases by trichomonas during their life activity.

Yellow or purulent

The appearance of a small yellow spot on the laundry after the discharge has dried is not an indicator of any pathology. This can happen in healthy girls, especially if there are no other complaints.

Abundant bright or not very yellow discharge with an unpleasant odor indicates an inflammatory process, usually in the vagina. Typically, the infectious process is caused by the activation of conditional nonspecific pathogenic flora - streptococci, staphylococci, E. coli and others. Inflammation can be a consequence of decreased immunity, poor hygiene, including during sexual intercourse, and other reasons.

Purulent discharge appears with gonorrhea. At the same time, the woman is bothered by itching, redness and swelling of the external genitalia.

Gray

Most often appear with bacterial vaginosis. In this case, they are abundant, “cloudy”, with an unpleasant odor.

Curdled

Discharge like cottage cheese flakes with a sharp sour smell is the first sign of thrush (candidal colpitis). The condition most often occurs:

with decreased immunity, hypothermia;
after a course of antibiotics;
against the background of sexually transmitted infections;
with hormonal disorders;
with diabetes mellitus.

White curdled discharge may acquire a yellow tint, this indicates the addition of bacterial inflammation to the vagina.

Watch this video about what discharge a woman has normally and in pathology:

Classification by smell

The discharge associated with each disease is characterized by a peculiar odor. It is from this that one can determine what disease has affected the woman’s reproductive system. The following odors may appear during illness:

Gland. This smell indicates that blood has entered the discharge. This can happen during menstruation (which is normal) or during cervical erosion.
Urine. Due to strong pressure in the abdominal area, a portion of urine may enter the vagina, which is why a characteristic odor arises. This is more common in overweight women or after prolonged stress.
Rotten fish. This aroma can be caused by vaginal dysbiosis or inflammatory processes, which are also accompanied by itching and discomfort.
Acetone. The most common reason for the appearance of such a smell from female discharge is diabetes. This is a very serious disease that requires immediate treatment. There are other diseases that cause the smell of acetone. An accurate diagnosis requires a thorough examination by a gynecologist with mandatory tests.
Rotten meat. Pathogenic organisms such as gardnerella settle on the mucous membrane, infect it, and as a result, gray discharge with the smell of rotten meat appears. Delayed treatment can lead to infertility.
Fermented milk products. A sour odor is normal if it is almost imperceptible, and a strong acidic odor indicates the development of candidiasis. Curdled discharge and white coating can confirm the presence of thrush in the body.

Any, even slight change in the aroma of the discharge should alert you and be a reason to visit a gynecologist. Under no circumstances should this symptom be ignored.

Why does women's discharge smell like acetone?

If a woman's discharge smells like acetone, first of all it is necessary to rule out diabetes mellitus. When blood glucose levels increase and there is insufficient insulin, metabolism begins to work in an alternative direction, which leads to the formation of metabolic products that are not synthesized in a healthy state.

In particular, for diabetes mellitus it is acetone. The characteristic odor does not appear from the vagina, but from the inguinal folds and the skin of the genitals, which contain a large number of sweat glands.

Choose the right clothes

Clothing can help delay or penetrate the vagina:

sweat;
dead skin;
discharge;
semen from previous sexual intercourse.

Usually very tight clothing creates problems. Fecal matter that gets into the vagina can cause infections and odors, so avoid clothing that can spread it. This includes tight-fitting underwear.

Breathable cotton is the best choice for women concerned about vaginal odor. Cotton is less susceptible to moisture near the vagina. This makes it difficult for bacteria and other odor sources to accumulate.

Where to look for the cause if the discharge smells like iron

If vaginal discharge smells of iron, first of all it is necessary to exclude diseases and conditions in which the sense of smell is distorted. For example, this is possible with anemia. In addition, we can say about bloody discharge during menstruation that it smells like iron, because it contains hemoglobin, which directly contains this microelement.

Which home remedies to eliminate vaginal odor should you avoid?

There are many home remedies made from natural ingredients, the use of which is not recommended without first consulting a doctor . While it is true that many medications contain a certain percentage of natural ingredients, they are formulated specifically to provide an effective solution with the fewest possible side effects.

At first glance, these natural remedies seem harmless, but if they are used in such a delicate part of the body as the vagina, the result can be the opposite. The discomfort will only increase. This applies, for example, to baths with tea tree oil.

Excess moisture is also detrimental to vaginal health. Especially in case of infection. Therefore, a bath is not the most suitable option. And despite the fact that tea tree oil is famous for its antiseptic properties, it should not be used haphazardly or equally on all parts of the body.

Here are some popular home remedies to eliminate vaginal odor that you should avoid:

Garlic
Alum
Yogurt
Milk and turmeric mixture
Guava leaves
Apple vinegar
Tea tree oil
Baking soda
Indian gooseberry

It must be remembered that although they are natural products and do not contain chemicals, they may not be completely harmless. This means that even a leaf of a plant can have different effects. Even if you don't notice it right away. First of all, you should be careful not to get carried away by fashion. “It’s natural, which means it can’t do any harm.” Unfortunately, it is not.

What influenced the appearance of a putrid, rotten smell of discharge in women

The putrid smell of discharge is definitely not the norm and should always be a reason to consult a doctor, as it may indicate endometritis, cancer and a foreign body in the uterine cavity.

After childbirth

For 42 days after birth, spotting is allowed, the intensity of which gradually decreases. The appearance of a putrid odor is a sign of a serious inflammatory process in the uterine cavity - endometritis. Ignoring them can even lead to death.

Watch this video about the causes and treatment of changes in vaginal discharge:

In a healthy woman

Vaginal discharge that smells like rotten meat in a supposedly healthy woman can be a consequence of the following diseases:

cancer of the cervix or vagina - for a long time the pathology can occur with minimal clinical manifestations; at stages 3-4, when the tumor is disintegrating, the woman begins to be bothered by periodic bleeding with an extremely unpleasant smell of rotten meat;
foreign body - prolonged wearing of a tampon without replacement, use of a vaginal ring or pessary lead to the development of an inflammatory process in the vagina with the appearance of copious purulent discharge with a putrid odor.

Vaginal odor during pregnancy

During pregnancy, a woman may experience vaginal odor without discharge. It may resemble fish or any other, depending on the infection that has struck the body.

Pathogenic bacteria can negatively affect reproductive function:

The amniotic fluid may be contaminated.
During labor, the birth canal infected with pathogenic microflora can infect the skin and mucous membranes of the baby. This can provoke the development of candidiasis in a newborn, leading to dysbacteriosis and purulent septic lesions.
Infection can lead to deviations in the baby's development.
Bacteria suppress the baby's immune system, which can lead to secondary infections of various origins.
Vaginal dysbiosis during pregnancy and after childbirth can provoke infection of the woman’s blood. This is a threat not only to the health of the pregnant woman, but also to her life.

In order to carry out the correct therapy, it is necessary to determine the pathology of the uterus and the infection affecting it.

The smell changed after intercourse

Normally this shouldn't happen. If a girl notices the appearance of a specific odor after sexual intercourse, the reasons for this may be the following:

Disturbance of microflora and development of bakvaginosis . The smell will be reminiscent of spoiled fish, and the discharge will be copious, clear or grayish. More often this occurs with non-traditional types of intimate relationships (oral, anal sex, etc.).
Sexual infections . The first signs may appear no earlier than a few days after unprotected sex. The discharge may vary in smell and color, which also depends on the type of infection.
Thrush . Often women note relapses after sexual intercourse. Moreover, the very next day after sex, the discharge intensifies, itching, burning, and a sourish smell of leucorrhoea appear.

Diagnosis of diseases, who to contact

To remove the smell, you need not just to mask the problem, but to influence its cause. Therefore, a comprehensive examination is required, including three stages:

As part of a preventive examination, a smear is taken, based on the results of which a preliminary diagnosis is made.
Study of vaginal acidity. Its optimal value is from 3.5 to 4.5.
Carrying out an amino test. A positive result indicates the presence of pathology.

https://youtu.be/TQ_-zDdgFbU

If there is discharge with an unpleasant odor

If a girl notices that there is discharge with an unpleasant odor, the first thing to do is contact a gynecologist for an examination. Under no circumstances should you self-medicate, as this will blur the clinical picture and complicate subsequent diagnosis.

Symptoms that require immediate medical attention

You should urgently seek medical help if:

Against the background of changes in discharge, fever appears, there is pain in the lower abdomen or lower back.
If you had unprotected sexual intercourse the day before.
If you experience strange leucorrhoea during pregnancy.
If there is an unpleasant odor during menstruation or is accompanied by heavy bleeding from the vagina of an unspecified reason.

In all other cases, it is necessary to make an appointment with a doctor, but this can be done as planned.

What to do if the discharge smells unpleasant

Only a doctor can finally assess whether leucorrhoea is normal or pathological. To confirm the diagnosis, it is necessary to undergo a minimal examination:

examination on a gynecological chair;
bacteriological seeding of vaginal contents on nutrient media - this way you can find out the full qualitative and quantitative composition of the flora;
PCR for sexually transmitted infections;
a smear from the vagina for flora and from the cervix for oncocytology.

Vaginal smear for flora

How to treat heavy discharge

In each specific case, treatment regimens for copious vaginal discharge with an abnormal color or odor will differ.

Local therapy involves the use of vaginal suppositories, often with a combined effect - anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, antifungal. For example, the candles presented in the table are popular.

Terzhinan	One vaginal tablet once a day for 10 days. Used for bakvaginosis, nonspecific inflammation in the vagina.
Polygynax	One suppository at night for 6-12 days. The indications are the same as for Terzhinan.
Metromicon	One candle at night for 7-10 days. They contain metronidazole and miconazole, so they are used to treat not only ordinary inflammation in the vagina, but also trichomonas and candidiasis colpitis.

In some cases, it is necessary to take medications orally, for example, for genital infections, serious inflammation (especially after childbirth) in the uterine cavity. Antibiotics based on amoxicillin, azithromycin, clarithromycin, cefazolin and others are used.

Diet

There is no special diet that must be followed during the treatment of excessive vaginal discharge. Nutritional features can somewhat improve the clinical picture only with candidal colpitis. It is necessary to exclude sweet and flour products, and give preference to protein products, fresh fruits and vegetables.

Traditional methods

Traditional methods can be used only after the approval of a doctor and as an auxiliary, and not the main treatment. The most effective are douching and sitz baths. The recipes are as follows:

Coniferous baths . You need to take a glass of pine needles and soak them in 3 liters of water, let them boil over low heat for an hour. Strain the solution and use for baths.
Douching with a decoction of oak bark . You need to take a tablespoon of crushed bark and add two glasses of water. Boil, let stand for another 30 minutes, then strain and use.
Douching with calendula . You need to take two tablespoons of crushed flowers, pour two glasses of water. Boil and strain.

Even if the leucorrhoea stops smelling unpleasant at first, such treatment will not save you from the problem for long. Treatment should be comprehensive and include not only traditional methods.

Etiology

Normally, the vaginal odor of a healthy woman is slightly sour, but it is not unpleasant. The main reasons why a rotten fishy smell appears is the influence of bacteria. Against the background of their life cycle, various gynecological diseases begin to develop. These include:

vaginal dysbiosis, in which the balance between beneficial and pathogenic bacteria is disrupted;
thrush - this disorder is characterized by the appearance of white vaginal discharge with an unpleasant odor of sour milk;
damage to the mucous membrane by a bacterium such as gardnerella. At the same time, a sour onion or fishy smell is felt;
colpitis Often the cause of its manifestation is unprotected sexual contact;
chronic inflammation of the uterus and appendages - accompanied by slight white discharge with an almost imperceptible smell of onion.

Chronic colpitis

In addition, additional factors for the appearance of vaginal odor are:

irregular performance of personal hygiene measures;
frequent change of sexual partners;
various diseases transmitted through sexual intercourse;
weak immunity of women;
refusal of contraceptive methods;
changes in vaginal microflora;
dystrophy of the mucous membrane;
use of certain medications;
pathological structure of the vagina;
hormonal imbalance - often before the onset of the first menstruation, girls begin to smell an unpleasant smell of onions and fish, but after the onset of menstruation it goes away on its own. Menopause, abortion, and pregnancy can also lead to strong odors;
use of contraceptives, in particular the intrauterine device, for more than five years;
the impact of frequent stressful situations;
excessively high body weight;
emotionality and impressionability, which female representatives very often succumb to;
genetic metabolic disorder.

After childbirth, vaginal discharge often has an unpleasant fishy odor, but this does not cause discomfort to the woman or others. Then the discharge takes on a brown tint and becomes transparent over time. This whole process takes a little over a month. But, if the smell of rot begins to be released, this means that an infection has been introduced. If the discharge has a strong foul odor and has not changed color, you should immediately contact a gynecologist. In addition, vaginal discharge with an unpleasant odor may be discharged after sexual intercourse, after menstruation.

Prevention methods

To prevent unpleasant vaginal discharge, you must adhere to the following:

use condoms for protection and avoid casual sex;
wear underwear made from natural fabrics;
be promptly examined and treated for the initial stages of inflammation in the vagina;
It is important to lead a healthy lifestyle - eat right and do regular exercise.

We recommend reading about why there is an unpleasant odor during menstruation. From the article you will learn about the smell of menstruation during normal and pathological conditions, the causes of unpleasant odor, and examination methods. And here is more information about why brown discharge may appear after curettage.

Normal leucorrhoea should not cause concern to a woman - it is not abundant, light, without a pathological odor. Any complaints should be a reason to consult a doctor. Only he will be able to determine the cause of the condition and prescribe adequate treatment.

How to eliminate vaginal odor and prevent its occurrence?

Drink plenty of water
Take care of hygiene during sex
Include more vitamin C-rich foods in your diet.
Change pads and tampons regularly during menstruation.
Use underwear made from breathable fabrics such as cotton. Dry your underwear thoroughly before wearing them.
To wash the outside of the vagina, use neutral soap and plenty of water.
Avoid vaginal douches.
Do not get carried away with depilation of pubic hair, as this increases the risk of contracting various infections. There is no point in “growing” them. Excessive hair in this area can also be harmful.

This is interesting: Intimate hygiene: 5 habits that are not as good as you thought

Useful video

Watch this video about the diagnosis and treatment of STIs:

Preventive actions

After the disease has been cured, it is necessary to carefully monitor your health to avoid relapse. Preventive measures are quite simple , but require careful adherence:

Daily hygiene. To maintain cleanliness in the genital area, daily washing with warm water using specialized products is required. Doctors advise buying intimate soaps that contain lactic acid, which helps maintain the vaginal microflora and protect it from pathogens. You need to wash yourself several times a day during menstruation, since during this period the vagina is most vulnerable.
Getting rid of synthetic underwear. Synthetic fabrics do not allow air to pass through well, which causes a greenhouse effect. In such conditions, pathogenic microorganisms develop many times faster. Preference should be given to linen made from natural fabrics.
Using panty liners. This product is able to absorb excess moisture and keep the intimate area dry. But it is important to understand that if you do not change the pads on time (namely every 2 hours), bacteria can develop and accumulate in them. It is better not to wear daily bags at home to allow the skin to breathe.
Maintaining the immune system. To do this, you need to adhere to proper nutrition, exercise, often be in the fresh air and periodically be examined by a doctor.

What vaginal discharge is considered normal?

The female body is individual, and vaginal discharge is also specific. Many factors influence their number and color: age, medication use, health problems, pregnancy. The following discharges are considered healthy:

cream, white: after sex with a condom;
copious, liquid: in the morning, if unprotected sexual intercourse was performed at night;
transparent, white: immediately after sex without protection;
light, milky in color, viscous: during pregnancy;
pink ichor: after childbirth, caesarean section;
brown: in the first months after starting to take contraceptives.

Normal discharge associated with menstruation includes:

transparent, mucous - in the middle of the menstrual cycle, before ovulation.
insignificant, jelly-like - in the second part of the cycle.
creamy, abundant - at the end of menstruation.
scarlet color, with blood - during menstruation.
dark or brown – within two days after menstruation.

There is no need to worry if you experience vaginal discharge when it:

in the form of transparent mucus;
do not have a strong pronounced odor;
thick consistency;
in small quantities;
not accompanied by pain in the lower abdomen;
do not irritate the mucous membrane;
do not lead to itching of the genitals;
do not cause an increase in temperature.

Therapy with folk remedies

To eliminate a specific “aroma”, treatment with folk remedies is carried out:

Nettles. To prepare the product, you need to pour 20 g of the plant into 400 ml of boiling water. Leave for three hours. Take one large spoon orally three times a day.
Viburnum and barberry. Squeeze the juices from the berries in equal proportions and mix. Drink 100 ml once a day. Preferably before a night's rest.
Chamomile. Five tablespoons of the plant pour 3 liters of water. Place on the stove for fifteen minutes. Cool to a temperature of +25 degrees. Wash with chamomile decoction.
Pine. Tree buds in the amount of 30 g are poured with 3 liters of boiled water. Place on low heat and keep on the stove for half an hour. Let it brew for an hour. Make local baths from the resulting product for twenty minutes twice a day.

Folk remedies can provoke an allergic reaction. Therefore, they can only be used after consulting a specialist. Non-traditional methods are used in combination with basic therapy.

Eat healthy

Very sweet foods can cause thrush by changing the smell of your vagina.

There is some evidence that other strong-smelling foods may also change vaginal odor. Onions, coffee, and other strong-smelling foods can change the odor of your vagina by changing the odor of your sweat and other body fluids.

There is little scientific research to support the use of any specific food to change vaginal odor. Some anecdotal evidence suggests that certain foods, such as watermelon, apple, and celery, may help.

It is also important to drink plenty of water to prevent bacterial overgrowth.

This article uses materials from Medical News Today.

Important Tips

Normally, intermenstrual discharge is transparent and does not have an unpleasant odor. In the middle of the menstrual cycle, their number increases slightly. To maintain freshness and cleanliness in this case, it is recommended to use daily napkins or pads, which, in addition to additional comfort, keep your underwear clean. An unpleasant smell of discharge in women may indicate abnormalities in the functioning of the genitourinary organs and reproductive system. In this case, you should not delay going to the doctor. The specialist will prescribe an examination, determine the causes of the disorders and draw up a course of treatment.

Possible complications

If you do not promptly treat the smell of rotten fish from the vagina, then the following unpleasant consequences may appear in the future:

infertility, which can occur when a large number of adhesions form on the uterus and fallopian tubes;
cervical erosion;
chronic inflammation;
endometriosis;
diseases of the urinary tract, including kidneys;
menstrual irregularities.

These diseases can manifest as pain and discomfort in the lower abdomen, which can significantly impair the quality of life.

Diagnostics

In order to determine the nature of the appearance of a rotten odor from the vagina, it is necessary to conduct some research:

taking an anamnesis, which determines how long ago the disease began, the nature of the discharge and unpleasant odor;
examination on a gynecological chair, which involves a visual assessment of the condition of the mucous membrane of the labia and vagina;
taking a smear of vaginal discharge for further research;
tests to detect or rule out sexually transmitted infections;
Ultrasound examination of the pelvic organs to determine tumors and inflammatory processes.

In addition, general blood and urine tests are prescribed.

Factors affecting the smell and taste of secretionsi

If your partner refuses oral sex, first of all you should think about the sincerity of his feelings for you. If a person does not feel love, he will not be very pleased to kiss you “there”.

Sex fact

In Colombia, it is customary for a mother to be present in the room on her daughter's wedding night.

If a girl is sure that a man loves her, but he either does not go below certain limits at all, or his face expresses disgust, then perhaps the problem is a health problem. It is quite possible to smell an unpleasant odor on yourself if it is caused by a disease.

If the aroma is not attractive due to an unhealthy lifestyle, you get used to it and no longer feel it yourself. If the smell in a woman’s intimate area and the taste of the discharge are more than unpleasant, you should consult a doctor.

If a woman begins to smell strongly of discharge, and its taste changes to unpleasant at one moment, then most likely she has experienced stress. This is a reason to think about vacation!

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Taste and smell are also affected by a woman’s race and age. Scientists from one of the American scientific universities were able to prove this. Light-skinned ladies of Slavic blood do not have a strong odor, but oriental women and dark-skinned beauties exude a strong aroma. More mature ladies smell stronger than younger girls.

Next, we suggest that you familiarize yourself with the causes of unpleasant taste and odor from discharge from the genital organs of women, and learn ways to combat them. And then we’ll look at options for improving the taste of a healthy lubricant so that your partner enjoys oral sex.

Possible diseases

The occurrence of foul-smelling discharge is sometimes associated with pathology. In this case, the following are often diagnosed:

Colpitis. The disease involves inflammation that develops inside the vagina (on the mucous membrane).
Vaginosis is a disease caused by pathogenic microbes entering the female reproductive system.
Endometriosis is associated with disruptions in the hormonal system.
The presence of tumors in the reproductive system.
Venereal diseases.
Thrush or candidiasis.

Before treatment, it is necessary to identify the main causes of odor-bearing discharge in women. For this purpose, it is necessary to consult with a specialist who knows how to cure this disease. If you resort to self-medication, you can encounter very dangerous complications.

Characteristics by color and smell

You should always pay attention to the smell, color, consistency and amount of secretion. The doctor will make a preliminary diagnosis based on the nature of the discharge, and after that further research will be carried out.

White discharge

During white secretion, a woman may experience a sour, pungent odor - this indicates thrush. If it smells like rotten meat, this is a sign of vaginosis.

In some cases, this symptom indicates a decrease in immunity. Intense leucorrhoea may appear after a woman has worn synthetic compressive thongs or has become very nervous. Rare hygiene procedures also cause a specific smell.

Yellow secret

The presence of yellow, foul-smelling mucus indicates inflammation.

If this symptom occurs after sexual intercourse, then it may be a sign of an STI. In addition to this yellow tint, discharge appears when:

streptococcal or staphylococcal infection;
vaginitis;
trichomoniasis;
diseases of the genitourinary system;
the presence of tumors and other neoplasms;
hormonal imbalance, etc.

Colorless secret

Colorless discharge that is not characterized by a bad odor or has a sweet odor does not mean pathology. They should be present in any healthy woman. They intensify during sexual intercourse and with excitement.

If the discharge is colorless, but smells bad, this may indicate a sexually transmitted disease.

Basic diagnostic schemes

To prescribe adequate treatment, it is necessary to determine the cause of the disease and identify the causative agent if we are talking about an inflammatory process. In this case, at the first stage, examination and laboratory tests are carried out. If necessary, an ultrasound of the pelvic organs and colposcopy are performed. A simple swab can help identify the pathogen and eliminate the cause of the unpleasant odor, if we are talking about bacterial vaginosis, candidiasis, trichomoniasis, bartholinitis, endocervicitis.

In case of chronic diseases of the uterus, such as chronic endometritis, identifying the pathogen requires a more complex procedure for taking material for research - a biopsy of the endometrium of the uterus. It is performed under local anesthesia and takes no more than 5 minutes. Based on the results of a study of the endometrium of the uterus, it is possible to determine the presence of endometritis, as well as determine which antibiotic the pathogen is most susceptible to.

To identify organic pathologies in the uterus and its appendages, it is necessary to perform an ultrasound. An ectopic pregnancy in the early stages may not appear on ultrasound, so this study can be performed several times at short intervals to exclude or detect this disease.

To determine pathologies of the cervix, colposcopy or hysteroscopy is performed.

Treatment

Medicines act on the cause of the unpleasant odor. If you can’t cope on your own, go to a specialist for help.

To eliminate these symptoms you will need to undergo complex treatment. Therapy begins only after the pathogen is identified.

Medicines

Medicines in treatment are used both systemically and locally. The main drugs that help fight infection have antibacterial and antifungal properties:

The most common drugs with a wide spectrum of action are Metronidazole, Tetracycline, etc.
For specific forms of pathogens, treatment is prescribed that takes into account the sensitivity of the pathogen to the drug.
For fungal infections, doctors prescribe antimycotics. If necessary, medications with an antiviral effect are also prescribed. Local medications with a combined effect (like Terzhinan, Polygynax, etc.), suppositories and vaginal tablets against fungus like Pimafucin, Zalain, etc. have proven themselves well.
In case of vaginosis of bacterial origin, after complex treatment it will be necessary to restore the microbiocenosis with bifidobacteria and lactobacilli.

If an onion smell, fishy smell, sour and other odors appear from the vagina, then at home, along with complex treatment, you can use folk therapy. Traditional methods include the use of:

Lovage roots. For 15 grams of dried raw materials, you need to take 200 ml of boiling water. The product should be infused and strained. The decoction is taken orally for 7 days, three times a day, 2 teaspoons.
Wormwood solution. Dry raw materials are poured with boiling water and infused for a couple of hours. Drink 2 teaspoons three times a day.
Nettle decoction. 2 teaspoons of the herb should be steamed, infused and strained. The decoction is consumed three times a day, 150 ml.

"Sourish"

Discharge with an odor during pregnancy should alert a woman, but not frighten her. Self-medication in this matter is not allowed, because it is impossible to eliminate the problem without knowing the exact cause of its occurrence. In addition, self-medication can harm the expectant mother and her baby.

It is also worth considering that conventional drugs are not always suitable for pregnant women due to their composition, which can be dangerous to the fetus. Therefore, only a doctor, after an examination, can prescribe effective and safe treatment during pregnancy.

A strong smell from the intimate area can significantly affect a woman’s quality of life, negatively affect her health, self-confidence, planning pregnancy and bearing a child, and complicate intimate relationships. A consultation with a gynecologist, laboratory tests and prescribed treatment helps to find out the causes of this condition and learn how to get rid of the smell and how to deal with this problem in general.

Therefore, the smell is a reason to consult a doctor. In each specific case, effective drugs of systemic action or local treatment are prescribed: antibiotics, antifungal drugs, creams, aerosols, gels, suppositories (capsules), ointments. In addition to prescription drugs, there are medications that are sold in pharmacies without a doctor's prescription.

Douching process

antibacterial drugs;
the use of lactic acid to restore acidity;
hormonal treatment;
taking bacterial medications that help increase the number of benign bacteria.

Treatment of vaginal odor in a pregnant woman is carried out only after childbirth.

In addition, it is possible to get rid of vaginal odor at home. To do this you need to use:

douching - a solution of lactic and boric acid;
administering medications using tampons;
vaginal tablets or suppositories.

In addition, there are folk remedies for treating and eliminating vaginal odor. For this use:

an infusion based on a mixture of Leuzea and marshmallow roots, pine buds, wormwood and lavender herbs;
elecampane root, birch leaves, mint, medicinal chamomile, licorice, thyme and geranium;
a decoction of leaves of lingonberry, viburnum, lavender, plantain and mistletoe;
calendula, nettle, coltsfoot, dandelion;
oak bark, geranium, wormwood, chamomile and violet flowers.

These and many other folk remedies can only be used with the permission of the attending physician. During pregnancy and after childbirth, it is best to abandon this method of getting rid of vaginal odor.

In addition, you must:

maintain regular hygiene;
wear only comfortable underwear;
eat more vitamins;
increase fluid intake per day.

Treatment with pharmaceuticals

If a woman has been accurately diagnosed and the cause of the foul odor in the intimate area is known, it’s time to move on to pharmaceutical drugs. They can be used both as independent treatment and as part of complex therapy.

Gynecological suppositories

To combat unpleasant odor, the following vaginal suppositories are used:

Klion-D - the product has an antifungal and antiprotozoal effect, eliminating not only odor, but also itching in the genital area. Directions for use: 1 vaginal tablet is moistened with water and inserted deep into the vagina (preferably before bedtime). Course of treatment: 10 days. Price: 350 rubles (10 pcs.).
Clindacin is an antibacterial drug, especially effective against staphylococci and streptococci. Directions for use: intravaginally, 1 suppository 1 time per day before bedtime. Course of therapy: 5-7 days. Price: 585 rubles (3 pcs.).
Fluomizin is an antiseptic used in the fight against fungal infections. Directions for use: 1 vaginal tablet per day. Course of treatment: 6 days. Price: 525 rubles (6 pcs.).

Only a doctor can select the exact dosage and course of treatment. Self-medication can only worsen the situation (especially when the cause of the fishy smell is not clear).

Douching

In addition to herbal decoctions, various pharmaceutical preparations are used for vaginal douching. Here are some of them:

Tantum Rose is a powder for preparing a vaginal solution that has anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects. Directions for use: the contents of 1 sachet are diluted in 500 ml of warm water and used for douching 1-2 times a day. Course of treatment: 5-10 days. Price: 500 rubles (10 bags).
Chlorophyllipt is a solution for topical use that has anti-inflammatory and antibacterial effects. Directions for use: 1 tbsp. l. The product is diluted in a liter of warm water and inserted into the vagina 2 times a day. Course of therapy: 7 days. Price: 150 rubles (20 ml).

If after douching the unpleasant symptoms intensify, it may be worth reviewing the dosage.

How to get rid of it?

If there are any changes in the normal state of the secretion, you should immediately consult a gynecologist. Self-medication for diseases of the reproductive system is extremely undesirable, since it can worsen the course of the disease and lead to serious consequences.

Treatment for discharge of an unusual nature, with a pronounced unpleasant odor, depends on the disease that caused it. You should not take any medications before diagnosis; at home, you can only begin to pay more attention to hygiene and strengthening the immune system.

You should not delay contacting a specialist, especially if there is blood in the vaginal secretion, pain in the lower abdomen, or severe irritation of the mucous membranes.

Different Types of Vaginal Odor

It's common for women to be self-conscious about their vaginal odor. These negative feelings can affect self-esteem and body image.

However, it is normal for the vagina to have a mild, musky odor. Indeed, research suggests that this smell is partly due to pheromones, which can enhance sexual attractiveness and subtly convey information about fertility.

This smell changes with hormonal changes during pregnancy, menopause and the menstrual cycle. Therefore, a subtle odor is not a cause for concern. However, some other odors require a doctor's attention.

Bacterial vaginosis is the most common vaginal infection among women of childbearing age. When something upsets the complex chemistry of the vagina, harmful bacteria can get out of control, producing a fishy odor.

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Some women with this problem also experience other symptoms, such as itching or burning, which can feel like thrush. Although, for many women, smell is the only symptom. Prescription antibiotics can treat the problem.

Healthy habits can also reduce your risk of developing bacterial vaginosis. These include:

Avoid hard water, which disrupts the natural pH balance of the vagina.
Do not use scented or scented products on the vagina. Perfumes and other products, such as scented tampons, can change vaginal chemistry and cause bacterial vaginosis.
Limiting the number of sexual partners and practicing safe sex. While bacterial vaginosis is not sexually transmitted, having multiple sexual partners can upset the balance of bacteria in the vagina.

An overgrowth of thrush in the vagina can cause a sweet smell, reminiscent of honey or cookies. The vagina may also smell like beer, flour, or bread.

Sometimes the smell is sour, but it can also be pleasant. Intense burning, itching or a feeling of dryness usually accompany thrush. They get worse over time, and some women may notice a discharge that resembles cottage cheese.

You can treat these problems with over-the-counter medications. However, a woman experiencing her first thrush should talk to her doctor to rule out other causes.

Many of the same measures that prevent bacterial vaginosis can also prevent the development of thrush.

Other measures to prevent thrush include:

Only take antibiotics when needed: For some women, antibiotics kill beneficial vaginal bacteria, causing thrush to grow.
Avoid oral sex with people who have oral thrush.
Maintaining a relatively dry vaginal environment: Because thrush develops in a moist environment. Avoid sitting in wet swimsuits or underwear.

Other smells

Hormonal changes during menopause can change vaginal odor and leave your vagina feeling dry.

Some sexually transmitted infections, especially trichomoniasis, can also change vaginal odor. Any change in vaginal odor, especially if the odor is strong or unpleasant, requires a trip to the doctor. It is not recommended to use perfume to mask the smell.

Why does my vagina smell?

An unpleasant odor from the vagina can most often indicate the presence of an infection: pathogenic microbes tend to emit specific gases that are sources of an unpleasant odor. In infectious diseases, it can be different: putrid, sour, pronounced and weak, often accompanied by itching and burning of the external genitalia. However, sometimes it is the odors of an intimate place that can clearly indicate a problem that is worth seeing a doctor, and every woman should know about this. Therefore, if you have a smelly vagina, it is better not to use home remedies, and the best way to get rid of the bad smell is to make an appointment with a gynecologist!

✘ Note to men! One thing you should never do is tell your girlfriend that her vagina stinks. Women are quite sensitive to their private parts, and if you happen to be so close to your partner's genitals that you can feel their strong smell or nasty taste, then be creative and report your unpleasant discovery in the most delicate manner possible!

Causes of unpleasant odor in intimate areas

Bad vaginal odor is a rather alarming symptom, especially if it is accompanied by other signs of an inflammatory process. However, such an olfactory characteristic is not always a sign of inflammation; in some cases it is associated with metabolic disorders and peculiarities of the endocrine system.

However, the main causes of unpleasant vaginal odor are:

dysbiosis - an imbalance between beneficial and pathogenic bacteria in the vaginal environment; such a condition can form when the protective functions of the mucous membranes are reduced or when favorable conditions are created for the growth and reproduction of pathogenic bacteria;
thrush (affected by a fungal infection of the genus Candida) - with this disease, white curdled discharge with an unpleasant sour odor appears;
gardnerellosis or bacterial vaginosis - infection with gardnerella, the disease is accompanied by a strong putrid fishy smell, “rotten herring” with boiled onions coming from the vagina and panties;
colpitis is an inflammatory reaction that affects the mucous membranes of the vaginal walls and the external genital area; the development of colpitis can be triggered by coccal flora or STDs;
chronic sluggish inflammatory processes in the uterus and appendages, accompanied by slight discharge with garlic and onion odor;
failure to comply with the rules of intimate hygiene of the external genitalia, neglect to regularly clean the folds of skin around the clitoris and labia from accumulated plaque;
Ignoring hygiene procedures after intimacy leads to the smell of sweat and sperm coming from the vagina.

Itching and odor from the vagina always indicate the presence of an infectious inflammatory process. Colpitis and vaginitis are inflammation of the vagina and external genitalia, which occurs in most cases of gynecological diseases. Pathology can be caused by chlamydia, gonococci, mycoplasma, ureaplasma, trichomonas, fungal and viral infections. Nonspecific vaginitis is caused by staphylococcus, streptococcus and Escherichia coli.

Thus, a strong odor from the vagina is an indicator of the active stage of the inflammatory process with a significant predominance of pathogenic flora over beneficial microorganisms. This condition requires immediate treatment as soon as its cause is determined.

Fishy vaginal smell

One of the most common types of discomfort in the intimate area of the weaker sex is the aromas of rancid inhabitants of rivers and reservoirs coming from there. Of course, if you neglect daily hygiene and do not wash the areas between your legs, this may be related to this issue. But girls who are dirty and don’t keep their genitals and anus clean are rare, fortunately for everyone. More often than not, the reason for this confusion is the following.

An unpleasant smell from the vagina, reminiscent of rotten herring fish, may be a sign of vaginal dysbiosis. In addition to the smell, this pathology may be accompanied by a feeling of itching and burning of the external genitalia. Dysbiosis is unpleasant not only due to the presence of a fishy smell and discomfort, it increases the risk of inflammation in the uterus and ovaries, and complicates the course of pregnancy in women.

A strong smell of fish with rotten notes accompanies an acute inflammatory process, affecting not only the genital area, but sometimes also the urinary system. The clinical picture is complemented by such signs as moderate off-white discharge and its accumulation on the vaginal walls. In some cases, women may have a fishy odor from the intimate area without discharge, but most often it is accompanied by this symptom. It occurs due to the excessive development of pathogenic bacteria in the natural microflora of the vagina.

Sour vaginal odor

A bad, sour odor from the vagina may indicate the development of thrush. Active reproduction of a fungal infection of the genus Candida, in addition to a sour odor, is also accompanied by itching and significant white curdled discharge characteristic of this disease.

Why does your vagina smell like onion or garlic?

The smell of onion from the vagina can also be a sign of a fungal disease of the genital organs, and this smell tends to intensify after sexual contact and in case of hormonal imbalance (menstruation, pregnancy, menopause, frequent stressful situations).

The smell of garlic from the vagina may appear in response to the food that a woman eats. This may be food well seasoned with garlic, the smell of which sometimes leaves the body along with sweat and other secretory fluids. This doesn't mean you have to skip your favorite foods—just wash them down with plenty of liquid. Also, the smell of garlic can be a consequence of the same bacterial vaginosis, when the total number of lactobacilli in the vaginal environment drops sharply and there is a danger of the growth of pathogenic flora. Due to “harmful” bacteria, a characteristic odor appears, as well as cloudy intimate discharge with a thick and sticky consistency.

Sometimes these symptoms can be significantly pronounced and with the slightest violation of hygiene, the smell of garlic or spoiled onions from the panties becomes very noticeable. To get rid of it, you need to undergo examination and treatment prescribed by a gynecologist.

Rotten smell from vagina

Why does an unpleasant smell, such as rotten meat, come from an intimate area? A putrid odor from the vagina may be a sign of gardnerellosis - an acute inflammatory process in the genitourinary area, provoked by the vaginal anaerobic bacterium gardnerella. In large quantities, Gardnerella causes specific symptoms: dirty white soft discharge covering the vaginal walls. The smell of rotten fish is due to the fact that gardnerella is capable of producing proteolytic enzymes, which, interacting with proteins, contribute to the creation of polyamines that decompose into putrescine and cadaverine, sources of the “rotten” smell. This disease can be easily treated if treated in a timely manner.

By the way, one of the most common signs of bacterial vaginosis is a herring smell from the vagina. There may be no additional symptoms for this pathology, but laboratory smear and culture tests clearly indicate the presence of a large amount of opportunistic flora and a decrease in the number of beneficial microorganisms - lactobacilli and bacilli.

"Urine" odor in an intimate area

The smell of urine from the vagina occurs during frequent stressful situations, with excessive emotionality and excess weight in a woman. This condition is called “stress incontinence,” or “stress incontinence,” and is characterized by involuntary leakage of fluid from the bladder during exercise, laughing, sex, coughing, or any activity that may increase intra-abdominal pressure. This pathology, of course, can be corrected by contacting our gynecologist.

Smell and taste of urine5

If the discharge smells like urine, then the taste will be appropriate. In this case, there are no pathologies; the proximity of the urethra to the vagina is to blame. When relieving yourself, drops of urine can easily penetrate the penis, and then the partner will feel its taste during oral sex.

If a woman suffers from mild urinary incontinence, when it leaks during laughter, coughing, or physical activity, it is worth going to the hospital. The reason for this may be weakening of the walls of the urinary tract and bladder.

In order not to cause discomfort to your partner, and he does not taste urine, it is necessary to rinse the vagina well before sexual intercourse. Don’t be afraid to be left without lubricant; in a specialized store you can buy any lubricant with or without a pleasant taste.

There is also such a problem as the taste of discharge with hints of acetone, as if from stagnant, dried urine. This is a more serious problem indicating diabetes. If there is definitely no disease, then the acetone smell and taste are explained by:

lack of moisture in the body;
following a protein diet for a long time.

In any case, you cannot leave the problem unresolved; get the appropriate tests.