Fishy smell coming from down there? It's normal for your vagina to have its own smell...
But a super strong or weird smell might be a sign something's off.
Let's talk about why this happens and how you can fix it.
Bacterial Vaginosis: The Usual Suspect
Bacterial vaginosis, or BV for short, is a pretty common condition and one big reason behind that fishy smell.
It happens when the good and bad bacteria in your vagina aren't balanced right. If you've got BV, you might notice a fishy smell and some discharge that's thin and maybe white or gray.
Good news is, BV can be cleared up with some antibiotics from your doctor. And a little tip: always wipe from front to back after using the bathroom to keep those bacteria in check.
Bacterial Vaginosis. Vaginal pH. Girl shows sticks for measuring acid-base vaginal balance.
Sweat Happens
Sweating is totally normal – it's your body's way of cooling down. But when sweat mixes with the bacteria on your skin down there, it can make things smell a bit off. If sweating makes it smell fishy, it's a good idea to talk to a doctor, just in case there's an infection.
Staying clean and wearing clothes that let your skin breathe can help stop sweat from making things smelly.
Stress and Lifestyle
It's no secret that the hustle and bustle of daily life can take a toll on our bodies, but did you know it can also affect your vagina's health? Yes, that's right.
When you're stressed, your body goes into fight-or-flight mode, which can upset the delicate balance of your vaginal microbiome.
This disruption can lead to unpleasant odors and discomfort, making it seem like your V is having a bad day too. Add to that a lifestyle that lacks sufficient sleep or relies heavily on junk food, and you've got a recipe for vaginal unhappiness.
Being Intimate
Getting busy in the bedroom can change its smell too, especially since sex can introduce new bacteria and mess with your pH balance.
Semen, for instance, has a higher pH than the acidic environment of your vagina, potentially leading to an altered scent post-coitus.
Plus, the physical act of sex can introduce friction and minor abrasions, providing opportunities for bacteria to thrive and disrupt your natural flora.
Antibiotics, Meds, and What You Eat
Taking certain meds, like antibiotics, can throw off the good bacteria down there.
Your diet plays a role too, with some foods possibly tipping the balance away from feeling and smelling fresh.
Can You Stop the Smell?
Totally! But remember, it's normal for your vagina to have a slight smell.
Here's more things you can do to keep things on the down-low:
- Always wipe from front to back to avoid UTIs.
- Pee after sex to help stop UTIs, too.
- Change your underwear every day, and maybe skip wearing them to bed.
- Use a laundry detergent that doesn't have a strong scent for washing your underwear.
- Use gentle, unscented soaps – no harsh chemicals or fragrances.
- Practice safe sex to lower the chance of throwing off your smell.
- Regular doctor visits are key, even if getting checked for STIs isn't your idea of fun.
- Balance your microbiome with probiotics. With something like Feminine Care Pre+Probiotic Melts, you're giving your body a bunch of friendly bacteria that help keep your vaginal health in tip-top shape.
