Many women worry about vaginal odor. Sometimes, they are concerned that they haven't cleaned their vagina thoroughly, or that something is wrong with them - am I infected with a vaginal infection? Urinary tract infection? Did I eat something that caused the odor? These questions are not stupid, and in most cases, the "vaginal" odor is not as serious as you might think. Our vagina is filled with a large number of beneficial bacteria, forming a healthy microbial community. Sometimes, one or more beneficial bacteria will dominate, causing a change in the vaginal odor. This is not necessarily a problem. But sometimes, vaginal odor may indicate that something is wrong with the body and requires medical attention. The following lists some common vaginal odors and their possible meanings:
Fishy: the most likely culprit behind this scent is bacterial vaginosis (BV), the most common vaginal infection in women ages 15 to 44. This is usually due to an overgrowth of bad bacteria, and requires a prescription for antibiotics in order to treat. Accompanying discharge is usually thin and watery.
Yeasty: This smell is usually due to a fungal overgrowth in the vagina known as a yeast infection. It may also be associated with a cottage cheese like discharge and intense itching.
Musty: We have many sebaceous and sweat glands around our vulvar tissues. When we exercise and sweat, and that area cannot properly “breathe” the sweat gets trapped. The result is a musty scent, that can easily be washed away after cleaning the area with soap and water.
Rotten: This smell is quite concerning and may be related to a retained tampon. This can be dangerous, especially because the rotten smell is a sign that bacteria are festering. You may also be at risk for Toxic Shock Syndrome in this scenario. See your provider as soon as possible if your vagina smells rotten.
Metallic: Blood in the vagina can often give off a whiff of copper or other metallic scent. You can clean with basic soap and water, but the smell is not concerning (especially if you have your period).
Other: Sometimes, the food we eat can give off a funky smell in both our vaginal secretions and in our urine. Asparagus and garlic are commonly known to have this effect. While the smell may be unpleasant, it is not a health concern.
Finally, if your vagina has any unpleasant smell or discharge, please seek help from a professional. Vaginal douching is usually harmful as it can disrupt the beneficial bacterial flora that protects the vagina. Your gynecologist can conduct an examination for you and perform a bacterial culture if necessary. Safety always outweighs regret!