Do keep in mind that the consistency, quantity, and color of the discharge may change due to where you are in the menstrual cycle (4). In this article, we look at the symptoms and causes along with some of the best natural remedies you can try at home to get rid of vaginal discharge odor. Keep scrolling! Note: You should consult your doctor for treatment if you experience itching and irritation along with a vaginal smell.
Vaginal Odor Symptoms
The symptoms of the feminine odor coming from your private parts vary among women (5). The most common symptoms are:
Excessive white discharge Foul-smelling discharge Metallic-smelling discharge Thick, white discharge Fishy smell Green or yellow discharge Itching or pain in the vagina Pain in the lower abdomen area Pain during intercourse
What Causes Of Vaginal Odor?
There are many factors that can lead to a change in your vaginal discharge and/or cause that foul odor down there. The following are the usual causes of various types of vaginal odor (6):
Vaginal yeast infection resulting in thick, white discharge.
Sexually transmitted infections like chlamydia, gonorrhea, and trichomoniasis causing green, yellow, or gray discharge with a foul odor. This can also be accompanied by pain in the pelvic area.
Bacterial infections (bacterial vaginosis) that result in that fishy, foul smell.
Change in estrogen levels due to pregnancy, breastfeeding or menopause.
A forgotten tampon, which is producing the foul odor.
Thongs! As tempting, colorful, and fancy as thongs may be, avoid wearing them. They can lead to irritation and excessive perspiration and odor. Wear cotton undergarments because your private parts need to breathe.
Soap! Using too much soap in the vaginal area can cause dryness and lead to an imbalance in the production of natural chemicals, which leads to an unpleasant odor.
Apart from the causes mentioned above, certain serious diseases can also be responsible for abnormal vaginal discharge and disgusting smell. These include cancer of the cervix or vagina. However, these conditions will be accompanied by pain and even vaginal bleeding.
Top 22 Home Remedies To Get Rid Of Vaginal Odor
To get rid of vaginal odor, all you need are some natural items that you can find right at your home. Here are the fastest and safest DIY remedies with which you can easily reduce and eliminate vaginal odor.
1. Tea Tree Oil
If you use scented commercial wipes and vaginal deodorants, it’s time to throw them in the trash bin. The chemicals in these products can disrupt the vagina’s pH balance and induce infection and foul odor. To get rid of odors, use natural tea tree oil diluted in water as a vaginal wash.
A few drops of tea tree oil A cup of water
- Mix three to four drops of tea tree oil in water and use this to rinse the vaginal area. 2. You can also mix 2-3 drops of tea tree oil in a small amount of olive oil and dip a tampon in the mixture and insert the tampon. Leave it in for an hour. Wash with the tea tree oil water daily or several times a week. As for the ‘tampon and oil’ treatment, you can repeat it several times a week. Tea tree oil is both antibacterial and antifungal, and thus will curb the infection while fighting the odor (7). Always do a test patch on your forearm as tea tree oil might not suit everybody. Tea tree oil is very strong and that’s why you dilute it in water or olive oil.
2. Baking Soda
If you thought baking soda finds its use only in cakes and bread recipes, you are wrong. You will be surprised to see how this tested method helps you to get rid of vaginal odor quickly. 1/2 cup of baking soda
- Add baking soda to your bath and soak your lower body in it for 20-30 minutes. 2. You can also mix a tablespoon of baking soda in 2 cups of water and use it as a vaginal douche. The vaginal odor intensifies when the pH level of the body goes awry. Baking soda helps bring your pH levels back to normal, thus controlling the excess of bacteria and fungi. This treats the infection and eliminates the vaginal odor instantly. You can also use baking soda water as a vaginal wash (8).
3. Pineapple
This amazing fruit is said to be beneficial for your vaginal health and odor. Pineapple or pineapple juice Include raw pineapple and pineapple juice in your regular diet. You can drink one to two glasses of fresh pineapple juice every day for a few days. The high sugar and high enzyme content of pineapples improves the odor of your vaginal secretions.
4. Hydrogen Peroxide For Bacterial Vaginosis
Hydrogen peroxide is a multipurpose chemical that can be used to treat bacterial vaginosis and remove bad vaginal odor. It is one of the most effective feminine odor remedies.
3% hydrogen peroxide 1 tampon Water
- Mix equal parts of hydrogen peroxide and water. Make sure it’s only a 3% concentration. 2. Dip a tampon in this mixture and quickly insert it into the vagina. Leave it in for not more than 30 minutes. You can repeat this every few hours until the foul odor subsides. The natural disinfecting properties of hydrogen peroxide kill the bad bacteria in the vagina. This leads to an increase in the number of the good bacteria that are naturally present there. Many studies have been conducted, and they all prove the infection-treating capabilities of hydrogen peroxide (9, 10).
5. Vitamin C With Rose Hips
Rose hips are the seeds of the rose plant, and they contain high levels of vitamin C. Rose hips, by themselves, or in combination with a vitamin C tablet can be used to get rid of vaginal odor.
Vitamin C tablet Rose hip powder 1 tampon
Crush the vitamin C tablet and mix with half a teaspoon of rose hip powder in 2 ounces of water. Dip a tampon into the mixture and insert into the vagina. Leave in place for 1 hour. Repeat this every day until the malodorous vaginal discharge goes away. Vitamin C is an immunity booster and helps remove harmful toxins from the body. The tablet, when used in combination with rose hips, has an acidic pH and is an effective and safe method to treat bacterial vaginosis, one of the major causes of foul odor in the vagina area (11). An efficacy study conducted in 2013 also showed that using vitamin C tablets for six days a month for six months can reduce the recurrence of this infection by half (12).
6. Betel Leaves
Who knew betel leaves (paan) could be used to cure a smelly discharge problem? Read on to find out how.
A few betel leaves Tampon
- Tear the leaves into small pieces and boil them. Simmer for about 10 minutes. 2. Cool the decoction until it reaches lukewarm temperature. 3. Dip the tampon in this liquid and insert it into the vagina. 4. Keep it there for 15 minutes. Remove and discard. Repeat this daily for one week. You could also drink this decoction twice a day or use the water as a vaginal wash. The extract of betel leaves is used in ointments for its antibacterial properties. It also acts as an astringent (13).
7. Vinegar
Vinegar, especially ACV, is yet another potent remedy that is foolproof when it comes to fighting vaginal odor. 1 cup of white vinegar or apple cider vinegar Soak in vinegar water once daily till the foul smell discharge is treated. Drink vinegar water twice daily. Douche every two days for 2 weeks. Vinegar gets rid of the toxins that cause the fishy vaginal odor. It is acidic in nature and is loaded with antibacterial properties that will help kill the odor-causing germs (14). Rarely, a person may be allergic to vinegar. Step into the bathtub lightly, and if you experience a burning sensation, step out immediately and wash the area.
8. Garlic
Many may question the potency of garlic in treating odor, but thanks to its own pungent smell, it works amazingly. Believe us when we say that this is certainly one of the best-known home remedies to kill overpowering vaginal odor.
A garlic clove A cheesecloth String
- Peel the fresh garlic clove, and wrap it in a 6-inch square of cheesecloth. 2. Attach a small string to it. Insert it into the vagina and leave it there overnight. 3. Remove it in the morning with the help of the string. Do it once overnight. The pungent vaginal odor should be gone by the morning. You can repeat if the infection and the bad odor is still there. Garlic has been used since ancient times to treat infections. Various studies have proved that it has antibacterial activity against a wide range of bacteria (15, 16). Caution: If you experience localized burning from the garlic clove, remove it immediately.
9. Chlorophyll
Do you remember reading about chlorophyll that plants use to make their own food with the use of sunlight and water? Yes, that very chlorophyll can work wonders in reducing the vaginal smell. Liquid chlorophyll or chlorophyll tablets
- Drink one tablespoon of chlorophyll diluted with 8 oz of water, and you may never have to visit the doctor to get rid of vaginal odor. 2. You can take one tablet in the night and one in the morning if you cannot find the liquid version in the pharmacy. Drink or take the tablet twice a day till the fishy smell from the vagina is gone. Liquid chlorophyll works as a good deodorant and helps reduce the strong and unpleasant odor (17). It is easily available with most pharmacists.
10. Yogurt
Yogurt might not be your favorite food, but it can help diminish and reduce vaginal odor considerably. Simply have two cups of unsweetened yogurt a day, preferably with meals, to restore the normal pH of the vagina. You can also insert yogurt into the vagina.
1-2 teaspoons of yogurt 1 tampon
- Dip the tampon in the yogurt and gently insert it into your vagina. 2. Let it be there for an hour or two. Remove and rinse the area. Additionally, if you suffer from a very strong vaginal odor, you can also dip cotton pads in the yogurt and gently rub them on the vagina. You can repeat the cotton pads method three to four times a day. The tampon method will help you to eliminate the vaginal odor overnight. A strong vaginal odor can be an indication of a yeast infection. The good probiotic bacteria in yogurt can help fight the infection and reduce the odor as well. Dan Jackowiak, HHP, NC, Holistic Health Practitioner and Nutritional Consultant, says, “Probiotics can help decrease vaginal odor by decreasing the amount of bad bacteria in your body and increasing the amount of good bacteria. They also help keep your immune system healthy so that it can fight off infections more effectively, preventing future issues that could cause an odor.” The acidic nature of yogurt helps bring the vaginal pH back to normal, and the lactobacillus bacteria present in it will help treat the infection. This is a natural and effective method to remove the fishy smell from your vagina (18, 19).
11. Herbal Capsules
An alkaline vaginal pH leads to bacterial growth and foul smell. Therefore, it is important to maintain an acidic vaginal pH. One of the best ways to maintain acidic vaginal pH is by consuming homemade herbal capsules for two consecutive weeks. Here is how to prepare the herbal capsule:
Comfrey root powder – 2 tablespoons Myrrh gum powder – 2 tablespoons Slippery elm bark – 2 tablespoons Goldenseal root powder – 4 tablespoons Echinacea root powder – 2 tablespoons Yellow dock root powder – 2 tablespoons Gelatin capsules – size 00
- Mix all the herbal powders. 2. Fill 84 of the size 00 capsules with the herbal powder mix. 3. Store in a safe and cool place. 4. Take two capsules thrice a day. Take six capsules per day for one or two weeks. These homemade herbal capsules have antibacterial, antifungal, and antiviral properties, which will help boost your overall health and prevent microbial growth in the vaginal area. (20, 21, 22, 23, 24)
12. Alum
Aluminum potassium sulfate is known as alum. It is widely used to clean water tanks, as a traditional aftershave ointment, and in pickles. Alum is mixed with water to kill bacteria and eliminate body odor or vaginal odor. If the vaginal odor is due to excessive white discharge, alum can be helpful in preventing the odor. Here is how to use alum to prevent vaginal odor.
Water Alum
- Mix half a teaspoon of alum with a glass of water and drink it twice a day. This will help manage excess white discharge and vaginal odor. 2. Soak an alum stick in water and rub it gently near the mouth of the vagina. Alum sticks are available in the market. Do this once or twice daily until you get the desired results. 2. Mix one-fourth tablespoon of alum powder in a liter of water and wash your vagina with this water. Drink alum water twice a day. Wash your vagina with alum water daily for two weeks. Alum arrests bacterial growth by preventing bacterial adhesion to the vaginal wall, which is one of the reasons for vaginal odor.
13. Gooseberry (Amla)
One of the best and effective herbal home remedies to get rid of vaginal odor is to eat gooseberry or amla every day until you get the desired results. Gooseberry has a lot of antioxidants and has anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties.
2 gooseberries ½ teaspoon roasted cumin powder A pinch of salt 1 glass water
- Use a mortar and pestle to grind the gooseberries. 2. In a glass of water, add the gooseberry paste, roasted cumin powder, and a pinch of salt. Stir well before drinking. Do this for two weeks. 3. You can also slice a gooseberry, add salt to it and let it dry in the sun for two days. Eat two or three pieces of the dried gooseberry per day for a week. 4. Cut a gooseberry in half and put it in a glass of water and refrigerate it overnight. In the morning, add a little salt and roasted cumin powder and sip this water throughout the day. Do this for two weeks. 5. Juice the gooseberries and consume two tablespoons of the juice first thing in the morning every alternate day for two weeks. Follow any of the above mentioned methods for at least two weeks for effective results. The juice of the gooseberry contains vitamin C while cumin aids digestion and improves immunity. Both the ingredients help to boost immunity and kill bacterial growth (25, 26).
14. Neem
Neem leaves (Indian lilac) and neem bark have antimicrobial properties. Neem leaves have been used for ages to cure many skin diseases, smallpox, gut parasites, and wounds. Since vaginal odor can also be due to bacterial overgrowth, neem leaves can be used to treat vaginal odor effectively.
10 neem leaves 1 inch neem bark 1 liter water
Wash the neem leaves thoroughly and add them in water. Boil the water until the quantity reduces to half. Use this water to wash your vagina daily. Do this for at least one week.
- Wash the neem leaves thoroughly and let them soak in water overnight. Use this water to wash your vagina. 2. Wash the neem leaves thoroughly and grind them using a mortar and pestle. Do not add water. Take the neem paste and use your palm to make five small “neem balls”. Gulp one neem ball every morning. Wash it down with water. 3. Put the neem bark in the water and boil it till the water reduces to half. Drink this water the first thing in the morning. Wash your vagina with neem water twice daily for two weeks. Drink neem water every morning for two weeks. Since neem leaves and bark have antimicrobial properties, a daily dose of this herbal medicine will help prevent microbial growth and clean your system from within (27).
15. Fenugreek
The leaves and seeds of fenugreek are both beneficial for women. It helps to maintain hormonal balance, reduces abdominal fat, improves digestion, reduces blood sugar levels, and reduces menstrual cramps (28). To use fenugreek to eliminate vaginal odor, follow these steps:
1 teaspoon fenugreek seeds 1 liter water
- Boil the fenugreek seeds in water until the quantity of water reduces to half. Cool it and drink it before breakfast every day. 2. Soak the fenugreek seeds in water overnight. Drink it the first thing in the morning every day. For best results, drink fenugreek water for two weeks. Fenugreek water has a subtle bitter-sweet taste. Apart from providing the body with vitamins and minerals, it balances female hormones and thus can reduce foul vaginal odor.
16. Cranberry
You might be aware that cranberry juice is highly effective in treating urinary tract infection (UTI). Cranberries have antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties. Hence, they will help reduce foul vaginal odor.
1 cup fresh cranberries 1 liter water
- Soak the cranberries in the water overnight. Sip this water all throughout the day. This will help to flush out toxins and prevent bacterial infections. 2. Blend or juice the cranberries and drink the juice without removing the pulp. Remove the pulp if you have Irritable Bowel Syndrome. Drink a glass of cranberry juice every day to eliminate vaginal odor. Cranberries are highly effective against bacteria that affect the vagina and urinary tract. Cranberries prevent the adhesion of the bacteria on the vaginal wall, therefore preventing bacterial growth (29).
17. Turmeric
Turmeric has antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties. It is one of the best home remedies to treat microbial infections and wounds (30). Here is how to use turmeric to eliminate vaginal odor.
1 inch turmeric root or 1 teaspoon turmeric powder 1 glass milk
- Wash the turmeric root thoroughly. Peel it and chew on it the first thing in the morning. 2. Add turmeric powder to a glass of warm milk and drink it before going to bed. 3. Wash the turmeric root thoroughly. Peel it and boil it in a liter of water until the quantity of water reduces to half. Use this water to wash your vagina. Wash your vagina with this water twice a week. Turmeric, if consumed in the raw and natural form, helps to kill bacteria and boost immunity. You will see a visible difference in your skin and your vaginal odor.
18. Citrus Fruits
Citrus fruits, such as oranges, grapefruit, sweet lime, lemon, grapes, etc., are excellent sources of vitamin C that boosts immunity (31). Citrus fruits help the body to fight against bacterial growth in the vagina. Therefore, eating them or drinking fresh citrus fruit juices will help to get rid of vaginal odor.
1 sweet lime or orange 1 liter water
- Eat the citrus fruits. 2. Slice the fruits and toss them into a jar containing a liter of water. Let them soak overnight. Sip this water all throughout the day. 3. Juice the citrus fruits and drink. Eat citrus fruits or drink juices daily to eliminate vaginal odor. Citrus fruit juice or detox water will help to maintain the body’s pH balance and prevent microbial infection and itching in the vagina.
19. Seeds & Nuts
Nuts and seeds have a good amount of vitamin E, which prevents vaginal dryness and itching. Pumpkin seeds and almonds are rich in zinc, which helps to prevent vaginal dryness, itching, bacterial growth and odor. Other nuts, such as walnuts, flax seeds (rich in omega-3-fatty acid and polyestrogen), hazelnuts, and sunflower seeds, are also helpful in regulating the menstrual cycle and preventing vaginal dryness and hormone imbalance (32).
4 almonds 2 hazelnuts 1 tablespoon flax seed powder 1 cup milk
- Soak the almond seeds in water for four hours. 2. Peel the skin of the almonds and toss into the blender. 3. Toss in the hazelnuts. 4. Pour the milk and give it a spin. 5. Pour out the milk into a cup. 6. Add the flaxseed powder and stir well. Nuts and milk will help strengthen your bones, improve brain function, scavenge oxygen radicals, and boost immunity.
20. Guava Leaves
Guava leaves contain tannins, antioxidants, antibacterial, and anti-proactive properties. Guava leaves have been used to treat wounds and prevent microbial infections. Here is how to use guava leaves to treat foul vaginal odor.
4-5 guava leaves 1 liter water
Throw in the guava leaves into the water and boil the water until it reduces to half. Drink this before breakfast every alternate day for two weeks. Guava leaves have antimicrobial properties that make them one of the best herbal remedies to treat vaginal odor (33).
21. Lavender Oil
This sweet smelling and mood uplifting oil will help to reduce vaginal itching and irritation. Here is how to use it.
2 drops lavender oil 1 drop mint oil
- Add the oils to your bath water and soak your body in the water for at least 10 minutes. 2. Add the oils to a liter of water and store in a bottle. Refrigerate it. Use cotton to dab this solution on the mouth of your vagina and vaginal area. Do this every alternate day for a couple of weeks. The aroma of this oil will make you feel rejuvenated, smell good all the day long, and curb the problem of vaginal odor.
22. Use Boric Acid
To prevent bacterial growth and vaginal itching, it is important to maintain an acidic pH in the vagina. Lactobacillus (the good bacteria) from yogurt help to maintain the acidic pH levels in the vagina. However, menstrual blood and semen increase the pH levels and make it favorable for bacterial growth. Using boric acid, a mild antiseptic, will help to lower the pH levels and prevent bacterial vaginosis, Here is how to use boric acid to get rid of vaginal odor.
Boric Acid Gelatin capsules – size “00”
- Fill the gelatin capsules with boric acid and keep them safe in an airtight container. Store it in a cool and dry place. 2. Insert one boric acid filled capsule into your vagina. Keep it in overnight. Use these capsules for three consecutive nights if you have bacterial vaginosis (use an increased amount of boric acid). After that, use these capsules twice a week. Caution: Do not swallow the boric acid capsules. Make sure you label the container properly. Also, do not try this method if you are pregnant or trying to conceive. Keep the boric acid capsule container away from children. Note: Boric acid is safely used externally. It is a very powerful, but gentle eyewash. But it should not be taken internally.
Why Does My Vagina Smell?
Normally, the vagina consists of the perfect combination of healthy bacteria that maintain the pH in that region. When this balance is altered due to the different reasons listed above like other bacteria and yeast, there is a change in this pH. The number of healthy bacteria goes down, and the other unhealthy bacteria and yeast grow. These organisms can cause a change in the color and consistency of vaginal secretions and also result in a foul smell in your private parts (34, 35). Body secretions are also a result of what you eat and drink. An unhealthy lifestyle can result in strong smelling sweat, breath, flatulence, and vaginal discharge.
Vaginal Odor After Intercourse
After intercourse, women may experience a change in their vaginal discharge accompanied by a foul smell. This is because most bacterial and fungal infections are spread through sex (36). Having vaginal, oral, or anal sex, or any sexual contact involving touching fluids of an infected person can pass on the infection. These infections can cause rashes, abnormal vaginal discharge, and that peculiar fishy smell from your vagina (37). Urinate before and after sex and also wash your vaginal area with soap and r lukewarm water before and after having sex. These measures will help prevent any unwanted bacterial growth, itching, and yeast infections. You may also encourage your partner to urinate and wash before sex as well. Using condoms is the safest way to prevent sexually transmitted diseases.
Vaginal Odor During Pregnancy
Vaginal odor due to infections can cause severe complications during pregnancy (38). If you are planning to get pregnant, it is advisable to get tested for any vaginal infections and treat them as soon as possible. Extra care needs to be taken during the course of your pregnancy to avoid contracting any infections that result in alterations in your normal vaginal discharge and smell. Consult your doctor in case you notice any strong foul odor.
How To Make Your Vagina Smell Good Fast
It makes sense to pay attention to what you eat and strike off food that triggers the bad odor. Sweet food that contains a lot of sugar or foods rich in yeast can often cause vaginal odor. You should avoid them to reduce yeast infection, and, in turn, reduce the vaginal odor. Several vegetables like kale and celery and fruits like pineapple and cranberry are said to make your vagina smell good. Dan Jackowiak says, “First, you should check the type of soap you are using to clean your genital area. Be sure to avoid douching or using feminine hygiene sprays or perfumes internally or externally.” He also adds, “You should also avoid wearing tight-fitting clothes and underwear made out of synthetic fabrics, such as nylon or spandex. You can introduce changes to your diets, such as eating more yogurt, greens like celery, and fruits like pineapples and apples. Remember that your doctor can also prescribe an antifungal cream or oral pill to help clear up any infection.” Also, remember, panty liners, pads, or any other commercial lining products held in close contact with your private parts can lead to the production of yeast or bacteria, giving way to foul vaginal smell. Avoid the use or limit the use of liners and pads, unless absolutely necessary. The idea is to stay natural and play it safe by visiting your doctor if you have a vaginal discharge that doesn’t respond to the above remedies.
Drink Enough Water Daily
Water helps to maintain the body’s temperature and cell integrity and flush out the harmful toxins. Dehydration is one of the causes of foul vaginal odor. Therefore, you need to stay hydrated. The amount of water you need to drink will depend on your height, weight, and activity levels. You will require more water if you are highly active. Our medical advisor recommends dividing your weight in pounds by half and drinking that many ounces of water every day. You can put ¼ teaspoon of unrefined sea salt in every quart of water to help replace minerals that are being filtered from your water supply.
Avoid Bathing In Hot Water
Hot water kills the body’s natural bacteria. The prolonged use of hot water for bathing can lead to vaginal odor. Take cold water baths or use lukewarm water to bathe. You can also add essential oils, rose petals, or camphor to your bath water.
Avoid High Yeast And Sugar Foods
High yeast and high sugar foods can lead to vaginal odor. Avoid eating bread, cakes, pastries, sweets, alcohol, donuts, etc. Nibble on dark chocolate when you crave something sweet.
Eat Veggies And Fruits Every Day
Fruits and veggies are loaded with nutrients that help to fight a lot of health problems, including bacterial and yeast infections, heart disease, etc. Eat at least three servings of veggies and two servings of fruits to avoid foul vaginal odor. You can also make smoothies with vegetables or fruits for breakfast. Avoid spicy food and starchy veggies.
Stop Using Soaps And Fragrances
Soaps and fragrances contain chemicals that affect the pH balance of the vagina, which leads to bacterial growth. These chemicals also kill the natural bacteria present in the vaginal area. Therefore, to eliminate vaginal odor, avoid using soaps or fragrances in the vaginal area. Also, do not use daily water sprays or douches to wash your vaginal area. Water sprays or douches wash away the natural bacteria, leading to vaginal odor.
Wipe The Toilet Seat
The surface of toilet seats is a good place for many pathogenic bacteria. Therefore, when away from home always wipe the toilet seat, even if it looks clean, before sitting down on it. Or use the toilet seat covers provided in most establishments. Do not flush while sitting on the seat. Be very careful while using public toilets.
Avoid Too Much Oil Or Meat During Periods
Vaginal odor during your periods can be avoided by avoiding meat and a lot of oil in your food for the first three days of your period. Consume green leafy veggies, vegetable soup, smoothies, fresh fruits, fresh fruit juices, and fruit detox water. This will help prevent bacterial growth and any extra oil secretion through sweat glands, flush out toxins from the body, and maintain the pH balance.
Say Yes To Soft Panty Liners
Using uncomfortable pads or panty liners can cause vaginal irritation and itching. This may kill the natural vaginal bacteria and help in the growth of harmful bacteria. Switch to a panty liner that is soft and more comfortable for you. This will prevent the growth of harmful bacteria and eliminate vaginal odor.
Change Panty Liners Frequently
Panty liners should be changed after every three to four hours. Using a panty liner for more than four hours will aid bacterial growth, which can lead to foul odor. Also, try not to use tampons as they aid bacterial growth and cause itching and vaginal discomfort.
Change Underwear After Exercising
Sweaty, dark, and covered areas are ideal for bacterial growth. Therefore, change your underwear after exercising. It will help prevent itching, irritation, and foul odor.
Wash Your Underwear Regularly In Warm Water
Make sure to wash your underwear regularly in warm water. Soak your underwear in warm detergent water for 10 minutes before switching the washer on. This will help wash away any bacteria in your underwear. Also, dry your underwear properly before wearing it again.
Shed The Thigh Fat
Extra thigh fat causes extra sweat as the thighs constantly touch each other. This leads to bacterial growth and vaginal odor. Exercise regularly to shed a few pounds from the thigh area to completely eliminate vaginal itching and odor.
Check Your Hormones
Women who are undergoing hormonal changes or suffering from hormonal imbalance may have vaginal secretions that have a foul or fishy odor. Check with your gynecologist to know how these hormonal imbalances can be treated or the underlying reason for vaginal secretions. Use an antibacterial and antifungal powder on your inner thighs to get rid of vaginal odor temporarily.
Play It Safe
Always have safe sex if you suffer from foul vaginal odor. Safe sex will limit bacterial growth and also keep you away from harmful diseases.
Change Your Panties Twice A Day
One of the best ways to get rid of vaginal odor is to change panties twice a day or every 12 hours. Also, wear cotton panties rather than silk or satin. You may wear silk or satin panties, but do not wear them for longer hours. Satin and silk entrap sweat and urine, which leads to bacterial growth, and hence the foul smell. Change to a more comfortable cotton panty before going to sleep every night. Also, buy panties of different types so that the bacteria doesn’t get a favorable condition to grow. If you change into a panty that is of the same type as the other, the bacteria will grow back in the same area as they will get the ideal conditions to proliferate. Can other people smell my discharge? No. People with whom you are not intimate generally cannot smell your discharge. Can you smell a yeast infection? No. Yeast infections cause a change in the appearance of vaginal discharge but usually do not cause any foul odor, except for a very mild and cheesy smell. Does Monistat get rid of odor? Yes. Monistat may help to get rid of a vaginal odor as it claims to balance the pH of the vagina and protect against microbial overgrowth. Why do I smell down there even after I shower? If you have microbial overgrowth or an underlying cause of your vaginal odor, a shower may not be enough to get rid of it. Dan Jackowiak, Holistic Health Practitioner and Nutritional Consultant, says, “ Vaginal odor can be caused by many factors such as washing with soap and water or douching, using feminine hygiene products, wearing tight clothing and underwear, taking certain medications and even stress.” He also adds, “If you have recently started taking antibiotics or birth control pills, this could also affect the way your vagina smells after bathing.” How do you tell if your pH is off? A strong fishy smell, gray discharge, itching, and swelling around the vagina are indicators of an imbalanced vaginal pH. What is the normal smell of the vagina? The vagina normally has a mild odor. It may have a tangy or sour aroma or no aroma at all.