How to Get Rid of Vaginal Odor

While unpleasant, vaginal odor is a common condition that affects nearly every woman at least once in their lifetime. Fortunately, vaginal odor will often resolve on its own or with basic hygiene and lifestyle changes. In some cases antibiotic treatment may be needed. This article covers what you need to know about vaginal odor, including how to get rid of vaginal odor fast. 

What Is Abnormal Vaginal Odor? 

All vaginas have a natural, unique scent. It can range from fleshy, tangy, musky, to slightly sweet depending on the individual. Your vaginal scent can also change, telling you information about your lifestyle and overall health. For example, your vaginal odor can fluctuate throughout your menstrual cycle. It is also common for your vagina to emit a different scent after exercise or sexual activity. All of these changes are expected and normal. 

However, a strong and unfamiliar vaginal scent that smells “fishy” is considered abnormal. It may be accompanied by other symptoms like itching, burning, painful urination, and unusual discharge that is grayish-white or resembles cottage cheese. Abnormal discharge that persists for several days and is accompanied with other symptoms should be addressed by a doctor. This is especially true if you are pregnant or have other health conditions. 

What Causes Abnormal Vaginal Odor? 

Most cases of abnormal vaginal odor are caused by a disrupted vaginal flora. Vaginal flora refers to the balance of good and bad bacteria that live in the vagina. The vaginal flora determines your vaginal pH balance, or how acidic your vagina is. An imbalance in your vaginal flora or vaginal pH balance can cause abnormal vaginal odor.

Many vaginal odors that are caused from shifts in your pH level are not a cause for concern. A vaginal flora that is more acidic than usual may cause a sour or tangy scent. Your vagina can smell slightly metallic during your menstrual cycle as your period blood contains iron. Eating certain foods, like garlic or fish, can also temporarily alter vaginal odor and should resolve on its own. Moreover, poor hygiene practices like not showering frequently, not urinating after sex, and wearing non-cotton underwear can cause a strong odor. 

Sometimes, an imbalanced vaginal flora can lead to infection and inflammation, called vaginitis. The most common causes of vaginal odors include bacterial vaginosis (BV), urinary tract infections (UTIs), and trichomoniasis. 

Bacterial vaginosis, BV for short, is an infection caused by an excess of bad bacteria in the vaginal flora. It is most common in women 15-44. Risk factors include douching, not using condoms, and having new or multiple sex partners. Having BV during pregnancy increases the risk of preterm birth or low birth weight. The warning signs of BV are: 

• A strong fishy scent, especially after sex

• A thin white or gray vaginal discharge

• Pain, itching, or burning in the vagina

• Burning while urinating

• Itching around vagina

Trichomoniasis, often called “trich” for short, is a STI (sexually transmitted infection) caused by a parasite called Trichomonas vaginalis. Risk factors include having unprotected sex and having multiple sexual partners. Having trichomoniasis during pregnancy increases the risk of preterm labor and low birth weight. Many people with trichomoniasis do not experience symptoms. However, symptoms for women can include: 

• Vaginal odor that smells fishy

• Itching, burning of genitals 

• Soreness and redness in and around genitals

• Discomfort while urinating 

• Clear, white, yellowish, or greenish vaginal discharge 

In addition, women with trichomoniasis may find sex uncomfortable. Left untreated, the infection can last weeks and months. 

Urinary tract infections, UTI for short, is an infection that affects the bladder, urethra, and kidneys. It is often caused by bacteria that spreads from the rectum to the urethra. Risk factors include not peeing after sex, having unprotected sex, not using sex toys properly, and practicing poor hygiene. Urinary tract infections always require antibiotic treatment and can cause kidney infections and other health complications when left untreated. Urinary tract infections are also more likely to come back when not properly treated. 

The most common UTI symptom is a painful or burning sensation when peeing. However, other symptoms to look out for include: 

• Vaginal odor that smells chemical-like, specifically ammonia

• Frequent urination 

• Feeling unable to empty bladder fully 

• Feeling the need to pee despite having an empty bladder

• Blood in urine 

• Cloudy, foul-smelling urine

• Pain, cramping, or pressure in lower abdomen

In rare cases, vaginal odor can indicate serious conditions like vaginal and cervical cancer. It is important to consult a doctor if you are experiencing vaginal odor to rule out serious health conditions. 

What Causes Vaginal Odor During Pregnancy? 

Vaginal odor during pregnancy is common and can have various causes. Your body’s changing hormone levels can affect your vaginal pH levels, causing an unfamiliar scent. Your diet may also change during pregnancy, which can alter the pH level of your vagina and cause vaginal odor. In some cases, vaginal odor in pregnancy can be due to vaginitis, or inflammation of the vagina. 

Vaginal odor is also common in postpartum as your uterus returns to its pre-pregnancy state and sheds mucous and blood. 

Despite being common, you should still seek medical care if you are pregnant and experiencing strong or persistent vaginal odor. This is especially true if the odor is accompanied with other symptoms like burning, itching, and irritation. Women are more prone to vaginal and urinary infections during pregnancy, which may require antibiotic treatment. It is important to rule out serious conditions and get treated promptly if you have an infection. Some infections can lead to pregnancy complications if left untreated. 

How Is Abnormal Vaginal Odor Diagnosed?

Abnormal vaginal odor is diagnosed by a healthcare provider. At your visit, your doctor will ask about your medical history and symptoms. They will then take a sample of your discharge to test for bacterias that cause vaginal infections. The most common bacteria found in Gardnerella vaginalis, the bacteria that causes bacterial vaginosis. Your healthcare provider may also perform a vaginal exam or check your vaginal pH levels.  

While vaginal odor can be an embarrassing topic, it is essential to see a healthcare provider if experiencing symptoms. Vaginal odor can indicate the presence of a vaginal infection that requires antibiotic treatment. Not seeking treatment can lead to a more severe infection and other health consequences. 

How Is Vaginal Odor Dealt With? 

Wondering how to get rid of fishy vaginal odor? Treatment of vaginal odor will vary depending on its cause. When caused by eating certain foods, exercising, or not showering, vaginal odor will often resolve on its own or with basic lifestyle changes. Vaginal odor caused by pregnancy will also likely resolve on its own, as long as it is not due to an infection. 

If your vaginal odor is persistent or accompanied by other symptoms, it may be caused by a vaginal or urinary infection. Your healthcare provider will prescribe antibiotics to treat the infection. These medications are available as pills or creams. Common antibiotics for vaginal infections include: 

• Clindamycin (Cleocin)

• Metronidazole (Flagyl)

• Tinidazole (Tindamax)

If you have a vaginal infection, there are products that can help alleviate symptoms while you take medicine to clear the infection. Femiclear offers creams that contain ingredients proven to combat vaginal odor and soothe other symptoms like itchiness and irritation. 

There are other measures you can take to manage symptoms while treating your infection. It is best to refrain from sexual activity to avoid prolonged healing or making your infection worse. You should also bathe or shower regularly using unscented products. There are also feminine washes available that may soothe infection symptoms. 

In addition, wearing cotton underwear, opting for loose clothing, eating a balanced diet, and staying hydrated can all promote healing and improve your overall well-being.

How Can Vaginal Odor Be Prevented?

Vaginal odor can be prevented through practicing good vaginal hygiene and making lifestyle adjustments. Good vaginal hygiene practices include: 

• Shower and bathe regularly, especially after exercise

• Use unscented soap and warm water when cleaning 

• Change clothing after exercising

• Opt for cotton underwear 

• Wear loose fitting clothing when possible

Following these practices can prevent creating a warm and wet environment where bacteria can grow. 

Other preventable measures you can take include: 

• Refrain from douching, which can disrupt vaginal pH levels and worsen active infections by forcing bacteria deeper inside your body. Douching with an active infection can lead to a more severe infection called pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), which can cause infertility. 

• Drink plenty of fluids. Dehydration can cause vaginal odor and worsen an active infection. Increasing your water intake can help flush out an infection and improve your overall vaginal scent. 

• Practice safe sex. Wearing a condom can help preserve vaginal pH levels and prevent sexually transmitted infections that cause vaginal odor. Opt for unscented and unflavored lubricants to avoid irritation.  

Conclusion

Vaginal odor is an unpleasant but common occurrence for women. In most cases, it will resolve on its own with basic hygiene and lifestyle adjustments. If persistent or accompanied by other symptoms, vaginal odor may require prescription antibiotic treatment. In these cases, it is best to consult a healthcare provider. 

While embarrassing, it is essential to seek medical care for persistent vaginal odor as it can indicate the presence of an active vaginal infection or something serious like vaginal or cervical cancer. Vaginal infections do not clear up on their own and lead to further health complications without treatment. 

In the meantime, practicing good vaginal hygiene and refraining from sexual activity can help get rid of bad vaginal odor. You can also try Femiclear’s products designed specifically to help alleviate vaginal infection symptoms and combat vaginal odor.