It is normal for a vaginal to have a natural odor. However,
a strong vaginal odor is not only embarrassing but could be an indication of a
problem. Vaginal odor is sometimes comes with other signs like burning
urination, itchy vaginal area and abnormal discharge. Below are some causes of
bad vaginal odor and how to treat them.
1. Bacterial vaginosis- This is an
infection that results from the overgrowth of bacteria in the vagina. The
vaginal produces a foul smelling “fishy” odor. Although BV is not
sexually transmitted the odor increases after a sexual intercourse. Other
symptoms of BV include burning urination, thin grayish white discharge and
vaginal itching. BV is treated by using prescribed antibiotics taken either
taken orally or inserted to the vagina or both.
2. Yeast infection- This is a very common
fungal infection caused by the overgrowth of yeast called Candida. It causes a bread/yeast
like odor. Other symptoms include vaginal itching, painful urination
and painful intercourse. Yeast infection is treated with oral antifungal sold
over the counter. If you experience these symptoms recurrently or they won’t
respond to treatment, it is advisable to visit a doctor.
3. Trichomoniasis- This is a treatable
sexually transmitted infection. It is caused by a parasite trichomonas vaginalisis. It causes a musty smell especially
after sitting for long hours. Other symptoms include; gray, yellow or bloody
vaginal discharge; frequent painful urination, painful intercourse, itching of
the vulva among others. Trichomoniasis is treated by use of prescribed
antibiotics like metronidazole or tinidazole. It is important to take
medication together with your partner.
4. Pre-menstrual odor- Most women
experience a “tinny”vaginal odor a day to your menstruation. This is just
the smell of blood and there is nothing to worry about. It goes away after your
period.
5. New medication- Some medication may
cause changes in vaginal odor. It is always good to speak to your doctor if there
is a foul smell in your vagina after starting new medication or changes in
discharge.
6. Poor Hygiene- The vaginal area gets
sweaty after long days activities. It is therefore very important to clean it
thoroughly to avoid build up of dirt that can cause odor. Always shave your
pubic hair to avoid harboring bacteria. It is also very important to make sure
that no items are forgotten inside the vagina like used tampons and condoms.
They may be the cause of your vaginal odor.
7. Pregnancy- Pregnancy can disorient the
pH levels in your vagina causing changes in amount of discharge and the smell.
8. Rectovaginal Fistula- This is the
presence of an opening between the rectum and the vagina that cause fecal
matter to leak into the vagina causing a bad smell after urination. It can
result from childbirth or cancer treatment in the pelvic area. It can be
treated through corrective surgery although on rare cases it closes on it’s
own.
Home remedies for treating vaginal odor
- Avoid douching, scented soaps to clean your vagina or harsh detergents on your inner wear.
- Changing into clean underwear at least once daily.Always ensure your panties are hanged outside to dry.
- After a bowel movement always wipe from front to back to avoid rectal bacterial coming into contact with you vagina. This engenders infections.
- Wear cotton panties to enhance aeration. Lack of aeration creates an environment where bacteria can thrive causing an odor.
- Inserting a garlic clove into your vagina for some time is said to treat yeast infection.
- Taking
yogurt with pro-biotic properties ensures that you maintain a healthy
level of good bacteria in your body.
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