subject: 4 Reasons Why You Have An Abnormal Vaginal Odour And How To Stay Fresh [print this page] You only need to visit the feminine hygiene aisle of any major store to be bombarded with a multitude of scented products to see that we women have a major hang up about how we are supposed to smell. If there was not a demand for all these products there would not be such a huge range.
Your vagina does have a natural mild musky odour that is part of its function. That odour as crammed full of pheromones, they are natural attraction chemicals. Your vagina is subtly yelling out to males in the area come and get me!
One thing everyone agrees on though, your vaginal odour is not supposed to be strong and unpleasant. Malodour means you have a problem.
1.Hygiene
While inside your vagina is self cleaning, outside is not. You do need to wash! Sweat and vaginal fluids build up and attract bacteria; it is the bacteria breaking down your natural fluids that cause the smell. Warm water and vigorous rubbing on a very regular basis works wonders. Soap should be mild and unscented. And I may be stating the obvious here, frequent changing of underwear. Just because your panties dont stick to the wall when you throw them does not mean they are clean and fresh!
2.Sweat
I know, it is hard to admit, women do sweat (or as my mum used to say, men sweat, and ladies perspire!). It is much more common now with the fashions of tight fitting clothes and synthetic materials. Wear loose fitting cotton clothes as much as possible, and if that doesnt float your boat try a dusting of corn starch which absorbs sweat without releasing any odour. Of course refer to point 1 and wash regularly too.
3.Menstruation
Your natural odour is different when you are on your period but it can become excessive if you do not look after yourself a bit too. Change tampons and sanitary pads frequently, even on light flow days.
4.Infection
Odour is often a sign of infection and usually is accompanied by vaginal discharge. It is important to know what is normal for you so you can spot changes quickly.
Most commonly the odour is from a yeast infection or BV. Yeast infections, while usually not excessively smelly, tend to have a yeast/beer type odour. BV has a strong fishy type smell.
Some STDs have strong malodours, such as trichomoniasis. If you are sexually active and have serious problems with vaginal odour that just wont go away, make sure you get tested by your gynecologist to rule out anything serious.
