Home Remedies To Mask Vaginal Odor

Vaginal odors are normal; however, some conditions may cause excessive odor to occur. The most common cause of vaginal odor is bacterial vaginosis, reports MayoClinic.com. Bacterial vaginosis occurs when too much bacteria grows in the vagina. Vaginal odors should be monitored closely. If the condition continues, women should seek treatment by visiting a gynecologist. Still, some simple home remedies may mask vaginal odor.

Douching Alternative

Douching is no longer recommended to clean the vagina, reports MedlinePlus. Cleansing the inside of the vaginal canal can force bacteria into the uterus and potentially cause pelvic inflammatory disease. Instead, a woman may opt to sit in a shallow bathtub of water with about ½ cup of salt or ½ cup of vinegar added, advises MotherNature.com. The vaginal area will cleanse simply by sitting in the tub. The solution is not inserted vaginally. Fragranced soaps, bubble baths and oils can cause irritation and should be avoided.

Clothing

When a vaginal infection occurs, a woman should wear loose undergarments. Underwear made of natural fibers, such as cotton, will allow the vaginal area to breathe. A woman wearing tight clothing may further irritate the vagina and increase an infection.

Panty Liners and Wipes

Vaginal odor may occur during menstruation. A woman may need to wear a panty liner and change her tampon more frequently to decrease possible vaginal odor. Baby wipes are handy and can be used to wipe the vaginal area throughout the day, advises the book "101 Makeover Minutes" by Tammy Bennett.

Yogurt

Yogurt applied to the vaginal area and inside the vagina may decrease odor caused by a yeast infection. Unsweetened yogurt with live cultures can be applied to the tip of a tampon and inserted vaginally. Yogurt contains healthy bacteria that helps to balance the overgrowth of a yeast infection, reports MotherNature.com. Eating yogurt may also decrease the risk of yeast infections.

Seeking Medical Attention

Persistent vaginal odor should be examined by a medical professional. Though some home remedies will help to decrease odor, serious infections or sexually transmitted diseases also cause vaginal odor. These conditions often require prescription antibiotics for proper treatment. Additional signs of a vaginal infection or STD include vaginal discharge, itching, redness and inflammation.