Vaginal odor is any odor that comes from the vagina. It’s normal for your vagina to have a slight odor. The intensity of this odor may vary during your menstrual cycle, pregnancy, or menopause. You may also experience stronger smells after sexual intercourse or exercise. However a very strong smell may signal a problem especially if it’s accompanied by symptoms like burning, itching, discharge, or irritation.
Some causes of vaginal odor may include:
- Bacterial Vaginosis. This infection is caused by an overgrowth of bacteria in the vagina. Symptoms may include a strong, fishy odor and a thin, gray discharge.
- Poor Hygiene. Not bathing or showering regularly can lead to inflammation of the vaginal area, which can cause vaginal odor.
- A Forgotten Tampon. A very strong vaginal odor can occur if you forget to take a tampon out.
- Sweating. The skin around the vagina is prone to sweating, which can cause vaginal odor.
- Trichomoniasis. This sexually-transmitted infection (STI) can cause vaginal odor. Other STIs, such as gonorrhea and chlamydia, typically aren’t accompanied by a strong smell.
- Rectovaginal Fistula. This is an abnormal opening between the vagina and the rectum that allows feces to leak into the vagina, which can contribute to vaginal odor.
- Cervical or vaginal cancer. Vaginal odor is sometimes a symptom of these cancers.
- Diet. Foods like onion, coffee, asparagus, and certain spices are known to produce changes in your vaginal odor.
- Medications. Some drugs, such as antibiotics and herbal medicines, can change the way your vagina smells.
- Hormonal changes. Hormone treatments, such as birth control pills and vaginal creams, can alter your vaginal odor. Hormonal changes during pregnancy, breastfeeding, menopause may trigger vaginal odor.