Vaginal Odor: Causes and Symptoms

Let’s talk about something important though maybe a little awkward: vaginal odor. The one that your vulva and vagina produce. It’s totally natural to notice a scent down there. However, sometimes the scent can shift, and when it does, your body might be trying to tell you something.

What Is “normal” Vaginal Odor?

First off, your vagina comes with its own ecosystem. A bunch of bacteria, fluids, sweat, and hormones all mixing together. The scent you notice is simply the result of that ecosystem doing its job. According to health sources, mild smells are perfectly normal and vary widely between individuals.

Here are a few examples:

• You might catch a metallic or “copper penny” scent during or right after your period.
• After a workout or in a hot climate, you might notice a musky or sweat-adjacent odor, because the groin area has sweat glands and warm skin. 
• The scent may fluctuate with hormonal changes, like ovulation or menopause.

Cause of Unpleasant Vaginal Odor

When the odor shifts more than just a mild change, a few factors typically play a role:

1. Bacterial Imbalance (Most Common)

One of the biggest culprits is a condition called Bacterial Vaginosis (BV). This happens when the “good” bacteria (like lactobacilli) in your vagina drop, and other bacteria take over. The result often is a thin discharge plus a “fishy” smell. 

In one study, women with BV reported foul odor in 29.9% of cases compared to 14.3% in those without.
Interestingly, the smell comes from volatile amines (chemicals like trimethylamine) created by the anaerobic bacteria.

2. Hygiene, Sweat and Friction

Sometimes it’s simpler: sweat accumulates, the area stays moist, or clothing traps heat and odor. That can allow bacteria or yeast to produce more noticeable scents.

Also, using scented soaps or douching can throw off your natural pH and bacterial balance—and that can lead to odor issues.

3. Sexual Activity, Menstrual Cycle and Diet

After sex: according to studies, semen can increase vaginal pH (making it less acidic) and create odor shifts.
During your period: old blood plus sweat or tight garments may change the scent temporarily.
Diet: Onions, garlic, fish, and spices can subtly change the scent of many body fluids—including vaginal secretions.

4. Infections and Other Less Common Causes

When odor is strong, persistent, or comes with other symptoms (itching, burning, unusual discharge), infections like BV, Trichomoniasis, or STIs might be behind it.
Also, occasionally odor may result from more serious issues like a retained tampon, cervical problems or rectovaginal fistula. These are rare but worth noting.

How to Tell if Odor Is Something to Worry About

Here are signs that a change in odor might need a check-in with your healthcare provider:

• A foul or distinctly fishy smell that doesn’t go away after bathing.
• Odor plus abnormal discharge (grey, green, or frothy) or itching, burning, pain.
• Odor change that coincides with other symptoms like bleeding (outside period) or pain during sex.
• Odor that returns repeatedly even after good hygiene and lifestyle changes.

If you notice any of these, it’s smart to see a provider who can do a pelvic exam, test the pH and look at the vaginal fluid under a microscope.

How to Keep Vaginal Odor in Check

These suggestions assume you don’t have a serious infection. If you do, see the doctor.

1. Choose breathable fabrics
   Swap tight synthetics for cotton underwear and looser bottoms. Less sweat means fewer odor-friendly microbes.
2. Gentle hygiene wins
   Wash the outer vulva area with water and a mild unscented soap. Avoid inserting soap or using douches. Wipe front to back after going to the bathroom.
3. Change into dry clothes
   After workouts or if you sweat more, get into fresh underwear and dry off the area. Moisture encourages odor-causing bacteria or yeast.
4. Be mindful of sex & periods
   Use condoms if you’re worried about the pH effect of semen. After sex, rinse the vulva with water (not inside the vagina). During your period change pads/tampons often and consider internal options if you’re okay with them. Less surface moisture = less smell.
5. Avoid scented products and douching
   Yes, scented wipes, sprays, and douches often look like they’ll help, but they disturb your natural bacteria and pH, and can lead to worse odor or infections.
6. Keep your diet and hydration in check
   Stay hydrated. Some foods may affect scent slightly (hello garlic and fish), though research is limited. Too much sugar may support yeast growth.

When to See a Doctor

While many odor changes are benign, you should definitely seek professional care if you see any of the following:

• Persistent strong or foul odor that doesn’t improve.
• Odor plus itchy, burning, painful genitals or unusual discharge.
• Odor accompanied by bleeding (not from your period) or pain during sex.
• You’re pregnant and notice a new strong odor or infection symptoms.
• You’ve tried good habits for a week or two and there’s no improvement.

Doctors may test for infections (BV, trichomoniasis, STIs), check for excess discharge, and assess your vaginal pH and microflora.

Recommended Solution

If you’re struggling with unpleasant odor caused by infections like STIs or UTIs, consider using Terminator. It’s a powerful herbal formula that helps flush out infection-causing bacteria, soothe inflammation, and restore balance naturally. 

Conclusion 

Your vagina has a scent because it’s alive. It’s a thriving ecosystem of bacteria, fluid, sweat, cells, and hormones. As such, the smell can and will change and that doesn’t always mean something is wrong. Staying alert to changes, practising gentle hygiene, wearing breathable fabrics, and avoiding aggressive scented or chemical products give you a great shot at keeping things fresh.

Your Wellness Is Our Concern At Fekomi Wellness

Our team of highly qualified and certified healthcare consultants at Fekomi wellness are always ready and happy to help you with your health concerns. Visit Fekomi Wellness today to book an appointment and begin your wellness journey. Kindly call our desk line on +2349074197154 for more enquiries.