Vaginal Odor: What’s Normal, What’s Not

Let's be clear: It's totally normal for your vagina to have a mild scent.

Your vagina has its own unique odor. And this scent can change based on your health, your hormones, and even what foods you eat.

On the other hand, odor can also be a sign that something's wrong. A strong, unpleasant odor may be a clue that you're dealing with a health problem, especially if you have other symptoms - like pain, irritation, or vaginal discharge.

Let's take a closer look at what's "normal" when it comes to vaginal odor, and what's not.

What causes vaginal odor?

It's normal for your vagina to have a mild scent. Your vagina is naturally home to many microorganisms, known collectively as your vaginal microbiome. This microbiome is mostly made up of Lactobacillus, a type of helpful bacteria. These bacteria keep your vaginal pH low and can also contribute to a normal sour, tangy smell.

Vaginal odor can change because of things that can affect the microbiome and vaginal pH. Factors that can affect your vaginal pH include:

• Smoking

• Stress

• Sexually transmitted infections (STIs)

• Douching

• Menstruation

• Hormonal changes

• Sexual activity

• Antibiotics

• Exercise

• Dehydration

• Eating food with a strong odor (like garlic, asparagus, or onions)

What causes vaginal odor during pregnancy?

If you're pregnant, you may notice that your vagina has a different smell. This is because hormonal changes during pregnancy affect your vaginal pH. Some people also notice a change because they're eating different foods.

It's also worth mentioning that your sense of smell may be more sensitive during pregnancy. This can make you more aware of changes in vaginal odor than you normally would be.

What are some examples of normal vaginal odor?

Most of the time, vaginal odor is totally normal - especially if it's mild, and you don't have any other symptoms. These odors are usually temporary and come and go, depending on many factors.

Here are some examples of normal vaginal odor:

• Slightly sour or sweet

• Earthy

• Yeasty

• Slightly coppery or metallic

• Ammonia-like or chemical-like

• Slightly skunky or musky

When is vaginal odor a sign of a problem?

If you have a strong vaginal odor that's not going away, it could be a sign of an underlying problem. This is especially likely if you have other symptoms, like vaginal discharge, pain, or discomfort.

Here are some odors to watch out for:

• Strong fishy odor: This can be caused by bacterial vaginosis (BV), an overgrowth of bacteria in your vagina. BV may also cause a grayish-white discharge. It's typically treated with prescription medication.

• Foul, fishy, or bad-smelling odor: This can be a sign of trichomoniasis (trich), a common STI. Trich typically causes a foul, fishy, or bad-smelling odor and greenish-yellow or gray discharge. Trich can be treated with prescription medication.

• Decaying or rotten-meat odor: If you leave a tampon in for too long, it can cause a meat-like or decaying odor. You may notice other symptoms, too, like discomfort or vaginal discharge. Once the tampon is removed, the smell will go away.

• Yeasty or beer-like odor: A yeasty smell can be normal. But it can also be a sign of a yeast infection - an overgrowth of yeast in your vagina. A yeast infection doesn't usually smell. But if it does, the odor is sweet, beer-like, or yeasty. It also typically causes thick, clumpy discharge, as well as itching and irritation. Yeast infections can be treated with over-the-counter or prescription medication.

Can you prevent vaginal odor?

It's impossible to completely prevent or get rid of vaginal odor. As mentioned, it's totally normal for your vagina to have a scent.

But, in some cases, you may be able to minimize odor by taking good care of your vagina and your vulva, the parts of your genitals that are outside your body.

Here are some home remedies to keep in mind:

• Choose breathable clothing. Stick with lightweight, breathable clothing as much as possible. It's also a good idea to change out of a wet swimsuit or sweaty workout clothes as soon as possible.

• Clean gently and regularly. Shower and bathe regularly, but skip the scented soap or shower gel. A mild, unscented cleanser is the best option. And remember: You don't need to clean inside your vagina - it cleans itself!

• Avoid using harmful products. Don't douche or use vaginal "deodorizers," powders, or perfumes. They're unnecessary and can even be harmful.

• Eat a balanced diet. Make sure to drink plenty of water and eat a variety of nutritious foods. Eating probiotic foods, like yogurt or sauerkraut, may be good for your vagina, too.

• Practice safer sex. Using condoms or other barriers can protect your vagina's pH and lower your risk of STIs. And, if you use personal lubricant, it helps to choose an option without added colors, flavors, or perfumes.

What are the best products for vaginal odor?

There are no effective products or other ways to get rid of your normal vaginal odor. For a healthy vagina, wash with water and a little bit of plain, unscented soap (on the outside only).

The truth is you don't need to use "feminine hygiene" products for vaginal odor. Douches, perfumes, and deodorizers aren't good for your body. And they can affect your vaginal pH, which can make odor worse instead of better.

There also aren't any medications specifically for vaginal odor treatment. But if your vaginal odor is caused by a health problem, treating the underlying cause will help the smell go away.

When should you see a doctor about vaginal odor

If you've noticed a strong, persistent, or bothersome odor, talk to an OB-GYN or other healthcare professional. This is especially important if you've noticed other symptoms, too.

When you meet with your OB-GYN, they'll ask you about your symptoms, including any odor or discharge you've noticed. They may also ask about your sexual activity and medical history.

Based on your symptoms, your OB-GYN may recommend a pelvic exam and additional tests for common STIs. This can help them figure out what treatment is the best option for you, including whether or not you need a prescription medication.

Frequently asked questions