Every female has a naturally unique vagina smell. However, certain things can result to a change in the smell giving it a bad fishy odour. While there are other causes for this, health status majorly affects the natural smell of the vagina. Many products offer to “improve” vaginal odour, but this is not medically safe and could lead to more complex problem.

The vagina is not entirely free from smell as it is normal for the vagina to have a mild, musky smell. This smell changes with hormonal shifts during pregnancy, menopause, and the menstrual cycle. A subtle smell is not a cause for concern.

However, if you have a strong odour which isn’t consistent with your vagina odour and not caused  by natural hormonal shifts, it is important you consult a doctor first to ascertain the cause of it and receive medical attention.

You can also do the following:

1. Adopt good hygiene:

To get rid of vagina odour, it is important you observe total body hygiene and also some vagina hygienic practices such as:

• Wiping the vagina from front to back, as this prevents fecal matter from entering the vagina
• Urinating immediately after sex
• Using a gentle, fragrance-free soap on the vulva only. You are not to wash inside the vagina as inserting soap into the vagina can affect vagina pH, potentially leading to infections and an unpleasant odour.
• Changing your underwear daily, or when the underwear is sweaty or soiled
• Wash underwear in unscented products
• Taking a shower after sweating, as trapped sweat can increase vagina odor

 

2. Avoid wearing tight fitted underwear:

This can trap fluids and substances around the vagina such as sweat, dead skin, discharge and semen from previous intercourse. When these gets to the vagina, it can cause infection and also odour. Breathable cotton is the best choice of underwear, as it is less likely to hold moisture close to the vagina. This makes it more difficult for bacteria and other sources of odour to build up and produce a strong smell.

3. Reduce the intake of sugary foods and stay hydrated

Consuming sugary foods can trigger an overgrowth of yeast, which can strengthen the odor of the vagina. Remaining well-hydrated prevents bacterial overgrowth. It can also prevent sweat from smelling irregular, resulting in a less pronounced vagina odour

4. Take probiotics

Probiotics support healthy bacteria throughout the human body, including in the vagina. They may also help prevent some vaginal infections, especially yeast infections. Probiotics can reduce the risk of vaginal odor, as they help restore the vagina’s normal pH.