Vaginal odor is a common problem faced by many women and it can be very embarrassing. The social, psychological, sexual, and financial consequences are high. So, if you’re struggling with vaginal odor and have tried everything to rid yourself of the problem, here’s what you need to know. Vaginal odor is any odor that originates from the vagina. The vagina is a delicately balanced ecosystem that requires a pH of 3.8 to 4.2 to maintain its health and integrity. The vagina contains an environment rich in bacterial flora and fluids that produces moisture and secretions. Alterations in the pH create a proliferation of organisms present in the vagina, which causes vaginal infections.
Women in the reproductive years will produce about 1.6 to 4.8 g of discharge per day. The secretions are made from the vaginal epithelium, giving discharge the creamy white appearance, and the vaginal transudate (extra-vascular fluid), which provides the moisture. The combination of vaginal fluid and bacteria that make up the vaginal discharge, at times, can emit certain odors. Most of these odors are natural and normal, but there are times when excess odor can signal a problem.
What Are Some Causes Vaginal Odor?
Vaginal odor can be due to a number of reasons. Common causes of abnormal vaginal odor include:Bacterial Vaginosis
The vagina normally harbors healthy bacteria, but if something disturbs the ecosystem, then unhealthy bacteria like Bacterial Vaginosis can take over. Bacterial vaginosis is an overgrowth of normally occurring vaginal bacteria. It is the most common vaginal infection that causes a vaginal odor. A fishy vaginal odor , in particular, is caused by it.Poor Hygiene
Hygiene plays an important role to prevent your vagina from imparting a foul smell.Retained Or Forgotten Tampon
While the odor is particularly offensive, it does resolve quickly after the tampon is removed.Trichomoniasis
Trichomoniasis, which is a sexually transmitted infection can also lead to vaginal odor.Hormonal Changes
The amount of discharge varies throughout menstrual cycles. Hormonal therapies, birth control pills and vaginal creams can have an effect on the vaginal pH and odor as well. Hormonal changes caused by menstruation, menopause or even pregnancy may cause vaginal odor with a foul-smelling watery discharge.Diet
Spicy food that contains a lot of chilies and peppers tends to increase the amount of vaginal discharge, thus increasing the associated odor. Garlic, onion, asparagus, and curry are few of the more odoriferous foods known to affect body odor.Medications/Supplements
Medications such as antibiotics can affect the bacterial balance of your vagina leading to changes in odor and discharge.Sweat
Just like any other part of your body, there are sweat glands in your vaginal area as well. A steady accumulation of sweat around your vagina may cause an unpleasant odor.Cancer
Less commonly vaginal odor may result from cancer. However, both cervical and vaginal cancer may cause odor causing vaginal discharge.Whatever the reason may be, vaginal odor can be very embarrassing. There are some home remedies that can help you get rid of vaginal odor.
