There are several contributing factors that can lead to your vagina smelling foul or fishy. The Mayo Clinic explains that vaginal odor is generally caused by an overgrowth of bacteria or organisms in the genital area. It can occur anytime, but it happens more often after intercourse or washing with certain soaps or perfumes.
Causes
One of the most common causes of vaginal odor is bacterial vaginosis. This occurs when there is an overgrowth of bacteria in the vagina and the genitals. It generally develops into an infection and needs to be treated with antibiotics such as metronidazole or clindamycin, explains the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Odor problems can also be caused by a sexually transmitted disease, a yeast infection, hormone fluctuations, sweating, allergy to laundry soap or perfume, menstruation or a lodged tampon.
Considerations
Keep in mind that others may notice your odor before you do. If you have been living with a condition for a long period of time that is causing odor, you may not notice. A close friend or sex partner may pull away or place distance between the two of you if your vagina smells.
Function
When you notice vaginal odor, you need to keep in mind that your body is telling you something is wrong, states the Palo Alto Medical Foundation. Your vaginal area should be mainly odor-free, especially after showering or taking a bath. When there is an odor or discharge, that is an indication of an infection or irritation of the skin on or around the vagina. The vagina will emit an odor through the sweat glands or through discharge that could be brown, yellow, white, green or gray in color.
Treatment
If you have an odor in your vaginal area, you will need to seek treatment for your problem. Seeing a gynecologist will assure you get an accurate diagnosis. He will prescribe medicine and creams that will help eliminate the source of the vaginal odor. In some cases of sexually transmitted disease, your partner may also have to receive treatment. This will assure that the infection or disease is completely eliminated.
Prevention/Solution
Always practice good feminine hygiene. This means showering daily or after working out and sexual activity. Change your underwear daily after you shower. Avoid soaps and lotions that may irritate your vagina. Always practice safe sex to avoid disease and infection. Visit your gynecologist semi-annually if you have multiple sex partners and yearly if you are celibate or have one sex partner, explains Mayo Clinic. Seek medical help at the first sign of pain, odor or infection.
