Vaginal Odor

Overview

One health issue many women have to deal with at one point or another in their lives is vaginal odor. Vaginal odor is typically the result of inflammation of the vaginal area due to an infection. In fact, vaginal odor is one of the most common signs of a vaginal infection.

There are many types of vaginal infections, among which yeast infections are the most common. However, vaginal odor can also be a sign of a sexually transmitted infection, such as Chlamydia, genital herpes, and gonorrhea.

In general, vaginal odor is stronger after sexual intercourse. In some cases, women who are allergic to chemicals in vaginal sprays, spermicidal products, and douches may also experience a change in vaginal odor. Vaginal itching and vaginal discharge are common symptoms that accompany vaginal odor.

When the natural odor of the vagina starts to smell "fishy," there may be an overgrowth in the organisms within the vagina (vaginal flora). The most common cause of this condition is bacterial overgrowth, also known as bacterial vaginosis. Although not as common, vaginal odor can be the result of a retained or forgotten tampon. It can also be caused by a rectovaginal fistula, which allows fecal matter to leak into the vagina through an abnormal opening located between the rectum and vagina.

Some instances of vaginal odor may be associated with pregnancy. In many cases, the drastic change in hormonal balances within the body can result in infections, as well as sensitivity to specific products or elements. Pregnant women who develop vaginal symptoms should consult a doctor. In addition, experiencing any type of vaginal infection or odor during pregnancy may affect both mother and baby; so it is strongly recommended to consult a doctor for treatment instead of resorting to home remedies.

Treatment

In many cases, vaginal odor may resolve by itself; however, many women regularly resort to a number of on-the-go wipe products and douches. These products contain mild ingredients as well as fragrances. Today, many douches are made using botanical extracts and essential oils to avoid sensitivity issues.

Health professionals recommend women avoid washing the vaginal area with harsh soaps, because they can alter or interfere with the body's natural pH balance. Bacteria are supposed to live in the vagina, as in other areas of the body, and eradicating them leaves the vagina more susceptible to infection. Once an infection develops in the vagina, it can spread to the uterus or the ovaries through the fallopian tubes and develop into a much more serious health problem. The American College of Obstetrics and Gynecologists recommends that women avoid using douches, which kill the bacteria living in the vagina, as well as products that contain talc, as they have been associated with ovarian cancer.

If home remedies do not relieve vaginal odor within a short period of time, schedule a visit to your gynecologist to determine a possible cause and initiate treatment for any infections that may be present.