Darrick Robles “In the vagina there is a natural bacterial flora, which has the task of ensuring a healthy balance and protecting against pathogenic bacteria,” explains gynecologist Dr. roses “Because of these natural bacteria, the cervical mucus in the vagina always has a specific smell. Changes can also occur during the menstrual cycle as the pH level in the vagina fluctuates.” The normal pH is acidic and ranges from 3.8 to 4.5. During the period, the pH can become basic and rise to more than 7.
So what does a healthy vagina smell like? dr Rosén says the smell is usually slightly tart or acidic, but around or just after your period the vagina can smell more metallic. In general, if you feel healthy and your vaginal odor or discharge is not unusual, there is nothing to worry about.
What are the most common causes of intimate odor? And when should I go to the doctor? Here is an overview with tips from gynecologist Dr. roses
1. Bacterial Vaginosis
Odor: fishy
Bacterial vaginosis is one of the most common causes of intimate odor, affecting 15 to 50% of all women of childbearing age . “In bacterial vaginosis, there is an imbalance in the vaginal flora,” explains Dr. roses The first symptom is often a fishy smell, later a frothy, almost gray or greenish discharge can appear. Itching and swelling can also occur.”
If the symptoms of bacterial vaginosis do not go away on their own, there are a number of different treatment options. “Doctors may prescribe antiseptic or antibiotic therapy,” explains Dr. roses Unfortunately, recurrences after the end of antibiotic therapy are not uncommon. Some studies have shown that taking probiotics can be helpful. according to dr Changing birth control methods can also help roses, especially if you’re using an IUD.
dr Rosén adds that your intimate partner can also be the cause of your infection. So it might be a good idea to talk to him about his personal hygiene and use condoms for a while. If you find that this helps, your partner may also need antibiotic treatment.
“If you have symptoms of bacterial vaginosis, you should see a doctor to rule out possible underlying conditions,” says Dr. roses “This is especially important during pregnancy, as there is an increased risk of preterm labor.”
2. Trichomoniasis
Odor: pungent and fishy
Trichomoniasis is a common non-viral sexually transmitted infection. About 7 million people are affected worldwide every year. “It’s a parasitic infection that doesn’t usually cause many symptoms,” says Dr. roses Some women have mild symptoms, such as an unpleasant-smelling, yellowish-green vaginal discharge. The vulva may be a little red and itchy. Trichomoniasis can usually be treated well with antibiotics. “
3. Toxic Shock Syndrome (TSS)
Odor: very unpleasant, but intimate odor is one of the less important symptoms of TSS
Toxic Shock Syndrome has become a very rare disease today – it used to be caused by overly absorbent tampons. “When these bacteria spread through the body, you feel very ill very quickly. Then high fever occurs, blood pressure drops , skin rashes and diarrhea or vomiting and a feeling of weakness can occur, ” says Dr. roses
If you experience these symptoms, you should go straight to the emergency room. However, TSS cases are now very rare.
4. A forgotten tampon
Odour: very noticeable and unpleasant
“It has happened that women go to the doctor about a vaginal odor, only to find that it was caused by a forgotten tampon. If a tampon is left in the vagina for days, the odor can quickly become very unpleasant,” says Dr. roses
In that case, it’s best to check again.
5. Vaginal fungus
Odour: occasionally yeasty
Vaginal yeast infections like thrush are very common and typically cause itching, burning, and changes in vaginal discharge, which can become lumpy and white.
However, this discharge is usually not particularly foul-smelling. “If the symptoms of the fungal infection are so severe that there is an unpleasant intimate odor, those affected should consult a doctor to rule out possible underlying diseases,” says Dr. roses
6. Hormonal changes
Odour: individually different
Just as your intimate odor changes during the menstrual cycle, other hormonal changes can also affect the odor of your cervical mucus. ” During menopause and the years after menopause, the smell can change,” says Dr. roses
Pregnancy also causes changes in the cervical mucus. “The discharge may be heavier than usual, or it may be thicker or thinner. However, it shouldn’t be foul-smelling,” explains Dr. roses
If you’re pregnant and have foul-smelling discharge, you should seek medical advice or speak to a midwife.
7. Urinary Tract Infections
Odour: ammonia- like
If you notice an ammonia-like intimate odor, the urinary tract is probably affected. This can be the case, for example, with a urinary tract infection . “If a UTI is left untreated, a strong odor can develop,” explains Dr. roses There is also a risk of ascending inflammation of the renal pelvis
“Occasionally, an ammonia-like odor can be a sign of an existing incontinence problem that the woman is unaware of,” says Dr. roses These problems are relatively common. A doctor or gynecologist can advise you on treatment options.
Can sexually transmitted infections cause intimate odor?
“STIs such as chlamydia and gonorrhea rarely change the smell of cervical mucus, but they can cause other symptoms such as B. cause pain when urinating,” says Dr. roses If you notice a different odor, you may also have bacterial vaginosis. If in doubt, you should ask a doctor for advice.
How should I wash and care for my intimate area?
“Like any part of the body that sweats, the area around the vulva can also become unpleasantly odorous,” says Dr. roses However, soaps can upset the natural balance of the vaginal bacterial flora and potentially increase the risk of bacterial vaginosis. Vaginal douches – a method that involves rinsing out the vagina – are also not recommended.
Only wash your vulva with water and a pH skin-neutral, soap-free and alkaline-free cleansing gel. Do not use scented panty liners or intimate sprays.
“If you’re experiencing severe dryness, whether it’s from breastfeeding or a recent infection, vaginal moisturizers can also help — but never products that contain fragrance.”
When should I go to the doctor for intimate odor?
If you notice that your intimate odor is noticeable or getting stronger and your discharge changes noticeably, you should seek medical advice. In any case, talk to a doctor if you have other symptoms .
