Despite what some vaginal product ads claim, there's no reason the vagina has to smell like flowers. It's completely normal for your vagina to have odor due to bacteria, sweat, your menstrual cycle, and even your diet.
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While there's no reason to feel insecure about not smelling like fresh chamomile (and whatever you do, don't shower, as it can cause vaginal infections, or n (don't use perfume there, because that's the fastest way for you to develop allergies (dermatitis), there are certain odors that can signal a dangerous condition related to your overall health.
So what do the different vaginal odors mean and which ones should you pay attention to? Here's what the experts say. Of fish
Possible cause: According to Dr. Laura Purdy, Wisp's chief medical officer, a fishy odor "could be a sign of bacterial vaginosis (BV), which occurs when the amount of lactobacilli in the body reaches zero." good for health." The second cause, according to Dr. Alyssa Dweck, a New York-based gynecologist, is a sexually transmitted disease, called trichomoniasis, which is caused by a parasite and can cause itching. genitals, foul-smelling discharge and painful urination.
What experts want you to know: Both of these problems can be resolved with antibiotics, so it's important to make an appointment with your doctor to evaluate the situation.
Trash or something rotten
Possible cause: Purdy says there's a possible culprit in this case: a tampon that's been in the vagina too long. Dweck notes, “This odor is extremely pungent and gets worse the longer the specific foreign object is present. It may also suggest infection or, rarely, a tumor or necrotic growth of the genitals.
What experts want you to know: If it's a tampon or other foreign object in the vagina, remove it immediately if possible. If the smell persists or you can't find the tampon thread, "it's best to see your doctor," says Purdy. Toxic shock syndrome (TSS) is a potential risk of leaving a tampon or other foreign object, such as a menstrual cup or disc, in the vagina for too long. Symptoms include high fever, vomiting or diarrhea, and rash on the palms. and the soles of the feet, confusion, headaches and muscle pain, according to the Mayo Clinic.
Vinegar/garlic
Possible cause: This odor could be a sign of a pH imbalance, notes Purdy. “The body naturally produces a type of bacteria called lactobacilli, which have a slightly acidic pH, to fight the growth of unhealthy bacterial infections,” she explains. "This smell can also be influenced by what you've eaten recently, especially if you've eaten something with vinegar or garlic.
What experts want you to know: “A vaginal odor of vinegar or garlic is usually nothing to worry about, unless the smell is too strong or you feel uncomfortable or uncomfortable; If so, I recommend you talk to your doctor,” Purdy said.
Ammonia/urine
Possible cause: The reason you may smell urine is because there is urine present, Dweck says. “In some cases, urine leaks or poor toilet hygiene can lead to the genitals having an odor similar to ammonia,” she says. Purdy notes that smelly urine can mean you're dehydrated, which in turn will make your urine smell stronger. An ammonia-like odor can also be a sign of a urinary tract infection (UTI).
What experts want you to know: If bladder leakage is a recurring problem or you think you have a UTI, Purdy recommends seeing a doctor.
Yeast/corn chips
Possible cause: A yeasty odor is often a sign of a yeast infection. Dweck notes that this can be accompanied by “intense itching and thick white discharge.”
What the experts want you to know: "If you notice that vaginal odor, it's best to see your doctor to see if it's a sign of a yeast infection," says Purdy. If it's a yeast infection, your doctor will likely prescribe antifungal medication.
Coffee
Possible cause: Vaginal pH. “Coffee is mildly acidic, just like the pH of your vagina is mildly acidic,” says Purdy.
What experts want you to know: No need to worry about coffee smell. "That coffee smell means your lactobacilli are doing their job and keeping you healthy," says Purdy.
Iron/Metal
Possible cause: An iron or metallic smell is often a sign of blood, Dweck says. Purdy adds that it's usually "menstrual blood." There may also be an iron or metallic smell "after sex", as this smell "may also be caused by vaginal exposure to semen".
What experts want you to know: “The bottom line with an iron or metallic smell is that it's nothing to worry about,” Purdy says.
