The vagina is the most sensitive part of a woman's body, because not only it’s a reproductive organ, but is also responsible for carrying out the waste materials from the body in the form of urine and menstruation. This is the reason why vaginal infections are very common in women. There is a particular smell that comes from the vagina, but if the vagina starts smelling foul or stinky, it can be an indicator of an infection or a disease. ETV Bharat Sukhibhava spoke to Dr. Renuka Sharma, an expert Senior Gynecologist in Infertility Center, Dehradun, to know about the causes and prevention of vaginal odor in women.
Vaginal Infections
Dr. Renuka Sharma explains that bacterial infection is believed to be the biggest cause of the vaginal smell. Of these, Bacterial Vaginosis is one of the most common causes. This infection occurs when there is an increase in the number of bacteria in the vagina. In particular, if the amount of Gardnerella bacteria in the vagina starts becoming imbalanced, then Gardnerrella vaginitis infection can also cause bacterial vaginosis. However, most cases of bacterial vaginosis do not require any treatment. It can be dealt with just by keeping the vaginal area clean. This way, the count of the bacteria is balanced and infection is cured on its own. But if there is a thin grey, white or green discharge with a sharp vaginal smell, itching in the vagina, and an intense burning sensation while urinating, then it can be a symptom of a disease and if ignored, it can result in serious problems.
Apart from bacterial vaginosis, there may be several other reasons for a foul vaginal odor, which are as follows:
- Due to vaginal discharge
- Using the same pad or tampon for longer durations during periods
- Hormonal imbalance
- Dietary changes
- Wearing unclean panties or undergarments
- Not cleaning the vaginal area properly
Vaginal Smell Indicates Severity Of Disease
The type of smell coming from the vagina indicates that if it is normal or not and also tells us about the severity of the infection. The different types of vaginal smells as identified over time and what they indicate are as follows:
Smell Like Yeast Or Bread
Smell like yeast or bread from the vagina is a common condition. This type of smell comes from the vagina due to lactobacillus bacteria.
Vaginal Smell Like Copper Or Metal
This kind of smell comes from the vagina during and after the menstrual cycle is over and does not last long. But, apart from the menstrual cycle, if there are any bleeding problems along with this particular metallic smell from the vagina, then a doctor should be consulted immediately.
Fermented Food Smell
Fermented or jaggery like the smell from the vagina is not a cause of worry. You can get rid of this smell simply by keeping the vaginal region clean.
The Smell Of Chemicals Like Bleach
Usually, after wearing the same undergarment for several hours, it starts to smell like ammonia. On the other hand, if you do not clean the vagina properly after defecation, it can also cause such a mild smell, which is very common. On the other hand, if you do not clean the vagina properly after defecation, it can also cause such a mild smell, which is very common. But if there is a severe smell of bleach or ammonia from the vagina, a doctor should be contacted immediately as it may be a symptom of dehydration or bacterial infection.
Fishy Smell
If the vagina has a strong smell like rotten fish, consult a doctor immediately as it may be a symptom of bacterial vaginosis.
Tips To Deal With Problems Of Vaginal Odour
Dr. Renuka Sharma says that by taking a little caution, we can not only avoid vaginal odor but also many types of genital infections. Some of which are as follows:
- Always wear cotton underwear. Wearing cotton underwear reduces the risk of vaginal infections.
- Do not wear too tight underwear or pants.
- Do not wear clothes made of synthetic fibers. Wearing such clothes can increase the problem of vaginal infections.
- Change tampons or pads every four hours during periods. Using the same pad or tampon for a long time can increase the problem of vaginal odor and vaginal infection.
- Drink more water
- Do get a medical check-up on time
- Clean the pubic hair from time to time.
- Do not wash the genitals with soap that is more aromatic and intensely chemical.
