Facts on Vaginal Odor

1. This Doesn't Seem Quite Right

A bacterial infection is the most common cause of vaginal odor. The odor typically smells fishy and is coupled with some clear or whitish discharge. Factors such as menopause, puberty and your monthly cycle affect the frequency and type of normal discharge you may experience. However, when the fluid comes with a strong odor, you should take note. Sometimes the vagina produces too much natural bacteria, causing an imbalance in pH levels. This is called bacterial vaginosis and can also result in vaginal discharge and a foul odor.

2. When Your Organs get Involved

Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID) is an infection of the reproductive organs. When an infection passes from the cervix into the fallopian tubes, ovaries and the uterus, symptoms include vaginal odor. The trick to successful treatment of PID is early diagnosis. Your physician can perform tests that may include a laparoscopic procedure to determine if you have PID. During the procedure, the physician examines reproductive tissue by placing a tool through a tiny abdominal incision and looking with a camera at the affected area. Your doctor can even take small tissue samples through this procedure to aid in the diagnosis.

3. It Could be an STD

Contracting a disease through sexual activity can lead to vaginal odor. Among the most common sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) is chlamydia. It can take anywhere from one to three weeks to show symptoms of this condition. If you suffer from painful periods, painful intercourse or urination as well as discharge and odor, consult your physician and get tested. Chlamydia is curable with antibiotics, but you and your partner both need to take them. You should refrain from sexual activity until after you're both tested for chlamydia again after the course of antibiotics.

4. Get Checked

Women often self-treat vaginal odor with douches and vaginal deodorants. If you choose to douche, limit yourself to twice a month and use only water or water and vinegar solutions. These methods may work for the short term, but when bacteria is the cause of the odor, you need to consult your doctor and get on an antibiotic treatment. When you leave infections untreated, they can lead to serious complications resulting in hospitalization and even reproductive damage. The bottom line is, if you experience abnormal discharge associated with vaginal odor, see your doctor.

5. Prevention is the Best Medicine

You should be sure to wash the outer vaginal area daily to get rid of bacteria that causes odor. If you wear nylons or other tight fitting clothes, are overweight or if you exercise often, you may need to wash this area more to cut down on the bacteria that thrives on the vulva. Use condoms every time you have sex to reduce your risk of contracting an STD.