Liam Carter
Vaginal discharge is a clear or whitish fluid that comes out of the vagina. While discharge is normal, changes in the amount, consistency, colour, or smell could indicate an infection or other problem. A strong, unfamiliar, and unpleasant odour that persists for several days, especially one that smells fishy, may be a symptom of a health problem. Vaginal odours can change for a variety of reasons, including sex, menstruation, diet, and pH levels. A forgotten tampon, bacterial vaginosis, or trichomoniasis can also cause a fishy smell.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Cause | Vaginal pH imbalance and sweating |
| Treatment | Use unscented sanitary pads or tampons during your period, avoid sex, sleep without underwear, wear looser clothing, avoid nylon or other fabrics that hold in heat and moisture, use Rephresh vaginal probiotics wash |
| Other causes | Forgotten tampon, yeast infection, bacterial vaginosis, trichomoniasis, pelvic inflammatory disease, diet, hormonal changes, stress, dehydration, liver cirrhosis, thrush, vaginitis |
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Vaginal pH imbalance
Vaginal discharge is a clear or whitish fluid that comes out of the vagina. Normal vaginal discharge should be clear or white, and it should not smell bad. However, a strong, unpleasant vaginal odour with a discharge may be a sign of a health problem. Vaginal odours are different for everyone, and these odours can change due to various reasons, such as sex, menstruation, or changes in vaginal pH.
A vaginal odour that smells like nail polish remover or ammonia may be caused by urine residue on the genitals or dehydration. A forgotten tampon can also cause a foul or rancid vaginal odour. This smell is caused by bacteria that grow around the tampon, and the longer the tampon is left in, the stronger the odour.
A fishy smell is usually caused by bacterial vaginosis (BV) or trichomoniasis, an STI caused by a parasite. BV is a bacterial infection caused by a change in the chemical balance of the vagina, resulting in a fishy smell that worsens after sex. Trichomoniasis can also lead to a fishy smell and a frothy green discharge.
Other causes of vaginal odour include stress, which can cause a skunk-like scent or body odour, and diet. Foods with strong odours, such as garlic, fish, asparagus, broccoli, and certain spices, can cause temporary changes in vaginal odour.
To maintain a healthy vaginal pH and prevent infections, it is important to avoid douching or using sprays in the vulvar area. Instead, use unscented sanitary products during your period and wear loose clothing that allows the area to breathe.
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Forgotten tampon
It is impossible for a tampon to get lost in your body. Even if the string is not visible, it is still there inside you. However, a tampon may seem “lost” because the string and the tampon get pushed higher into the vagina. This may have happened if you forgot to remove your tampon before inserting another one or before having sex.
If you suspect that you have a forgotten tampon, you may want to try removing it yourself. Wash your hands, squat down, and insert one finger into your vagina, making circular movements. Try to locate the tampon and remove it. If you cannot reach it with one finger, try inserting two fingers and gently pulling it out.
If you are unable to remove the tampon yourself, it is important to seek medical advice as soon as possible. Do not attempt to remove large or fragile objects by yourself as you may damage your vagina. A forgotten tampon can lead to toxic shock syndrome (TSS), a rare but potentially fatal condition.
A forgotten tampon will often make its presence known through a strong and unpleasant odour. This odour is a sign that the tampon needs to be removed as soon as possible. While vaginal discharge typically has a mild odour, a strong and unpleasant smell can indicate an infection or other health problem.
Other potential causes of a strong vaginal odour include:
- Vaginitis, a common condition during pregnancy that can cause an unpleasant smell.
- Imbalance in vaginal flora, leading to a fishy, musty, or generally unpleasant smell.
- Dehydration, which can result in a vaginal odour resembling ammonia.
- Stress, causing your sweat glands to produce a skunk-like or body odour scent.
- Dietary factors, such as consuming foods with strong odours like garlic or fish, can also influence vaginal odour.
If you are experiencing a strong vaginal odour that does not resolve on its own, it is recommended to consult a healthcare professional for further evaluation and treatment.
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Vaginal infection
Vaginal discharge is a clear or whitish fluid that comes out of the vagina. It is a natural and normal process, but changes in the amount, consistency, colour, or smell could indicate an infection or other problem. A strong unfamiliar and unpleasant odour, especially one that continues for several days, isn't normal. A smelly vaginal odour may be a symptom of a health problem, especially when accompanied by other symptoms like itching, irritation, and unusual discharge.
A fishy smell is usually caused by bacterial vaginosis (BV) or trichomoniasis, an STI caused by a parasite. BV is a bacterial infection caused by a change in the chemical balance of the vagina. The main symptom of BV is a fishy smell, which gets worse after sex. Your discharge may also change colour and consistency, such as becoming watery, chunky, foamy, or greyish. Antibiotics can be used to treat bacterial vaginosis.
Vaginal yeast infections happen when a specific fungus (candida) grows out of control in the vagina. It produces a thick, white, cottage cheese-like vaginal discharge. The vagina may swell and become itchy, and sex may be painful. Antifungal medications can treat yeast infections.
A forgotten tampon left in for too long can also cause a foul or rancid vaginal odour. This smell is caused by bacteria that continue to grow around the tampon. The longer the tampon is left in, the stronger the smell. A forgotten tampon can cause toxic shock syndrome (TSS), although this is rare.
Other causes of vaginal odour include hormonal changes, diet, and stress. Temporary vaginal odour is common and often resolves on its own.
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Bacterial vaginosis
A fishy or foul smell in the vaginal region can be caused by bacterial vaginosis (BV). This is a bacterial infection caused by a change in the chemical balance of the vagina. The main symptom of BV is a fishy smell, which gets worse after sex. The discharge may also change colour and consistency, becoming watery and greyish.
BV is a common condition, with about 29% of adult women in the United States experiencing it. It can be treated with antibiotics, which can be taken as tablets or prescribed as a vaginal gel or cream.
Vaginal odours vary from person to person and can change due to various factors, such as sex, menstruation, or changes in vaginal pH. A healthy vagina typically has a mild odour, and the scent can change in response to natural variations in the menstrual cycle, hygiene habits, or lifestyle factors.
While temporary vaginal odours are common and often resolve on their own, persistent unpleasant odours may indicate an underlying condition requiring medical attention. For example, a forgotten tampon can cause a foul smell, and it should be removed as soon as possible to prevent potential health complications.
Other potential causes of vaginal odours include:
- Vaginitis, especially during pregnancy, which can cause an unpleasant vaginal smell.
- Dietary factors, as consuming foods with strong odours, such as garlic or fish, can alter vaginal flora and lead to temporary odour changes.
- Stress, as it can stimulate sweat glands, leading to a skunk-like scent or body odour-like smell.
- Urine residue on the genitals or dehydration, resulting in a vaginal odour resembling ammonia.
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Diet
Vaginal discharge is a clear or whitish fluid that originates from the vagina. While discharge is normal, changes in its amount, consistency, colour, or smell could indicate an infection or other problem. Vaginal discharge may have a mild odour, but it should not be strong or unpleasant. A strong, unfamiliar, and unpleasant odour, especially one that persists for several days, may signal an underlying health problem.
To maintain a healthy vaginal pH and reduce odour, it is essential to consume a balanced diet rich in certain foods. Here are some dietary tips to consider:
- Include plenty of fruits and vegetables: Aim for a variety of colourful fruits and vegetables in your diet. White-fleshed produce like mushrooms, cauliflower, and white peaches may be especially beneficial in reducing the risk of stroke.
- Choose whole grains: Opt for whole grains like brown rice, quinoa, and whole wheat bread. These are excellent sources of fibre and can help maintain a healthy weight.
- Incorporate lean protein: Lean protein sources such as poultry, fish, lentils, and beans provide essential amino acids while helping you feel fuller for longer.
- Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day. Proper hydration helps prevent bacterial overgrowth and can reduce the intensity of vaginal odour.
- Avoid processed foods: Processed foods tend to be high in sugar and trans fats, which can negatively impact overall health.
In addition to dietary modifications, maintaining proper vaginal hygiene is crucial. Avoid douching and using scented products in the vaginal area, as these can irritate the delicate balance of bacteria and worsen odour. Instead, opt for unscented, pH-balanced feminine care products.
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Frequently asked questions
A strong, unfamiliar and unpleasant odour that smells like nail polish remover may be caused by a forgotten tampon. This smell is caused by bacteria that will continue to grow around the tampon. The longer you leave a tampon in, the stronger the smell.
If you think you have a forgotten tampon, try to remove it with your fingers. If you cannot get the tampon out yourself, visit a sexual health clinic or your GP and they can remove it for you.
Yes, a strong vaginal odour may be caused by bacterial vaginosis (BV) or trichomoniasis. Vaginal odours may also change due to menstruation, diet, or stress.
If you have an unusual vaginal odour, it is best to contact your healthcare provider.
