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Vaginal Odor: Cause and Treatment

July 3, 2025

Vaginal odour is something that most women go through in their life at one point or another. It may be embarrassing, but it's very normal and very easy to manage. If you're curious as to why your private area smells odd or how to fix it if it does, you're not alone. So let's examine the typical causes of vaginal odour and how best to tackle it successfully.

What Causes Vaginal Odour?

A natural scent is completely normal, but when there’s a noticeable change in smell, it could be linked to several factors. Hormonal shifts, sweat, infections or changes in hygiene routines can all influence vaginal scent. Sometimes, discharge can also contribute to the change. If you’ve ever thought, My discharge smells bad but not fishy,” it could be due to bacterial imbalance, dehydration or diet changes.

It should be noted that a slight odour does not necessarily mean there is an issue. The vagina is self-cleaning and maintains a sensitive balance of bacteria and pH. But when the balance is disrupted, it can cause odour or abnormal discharge.

Book an online appointment with Dr. Neelima Kulshrestha for Pregnancy & Gynecology related issues.

Common Causes:

  • Bacterial Vaginosis (BV): When the vaginal bacteria are upset. It can cause a strong or fishy odour, or sometimes a foul odour that isn't fishy.
  • Poor Hygiene Habits: Failure to clean the vulva properly or using scented products will cause irritation and foul odours.
  • Diet and Fluids: Onion or garlic-style foods and failing to drink sufficient water also impact body odour, including intimate areas.
  • Sweating: Sweat glands are located within the vaginal area, and when sweat collects it generates odour, particularly after physical activity. 
  • Hormonal Changes: Odour of the vagina is altered for some time following menstruation, puberty or menopause. 

Symptoms That May Need Medical Attention

It's always safe to take into account any atypical symptoms. If odour is supported by other symptoms such as itching, burning, pain or abundance of discharge, it should be investigated by the doctor. Conditions such as yeast infection or BV can't be controlled at times by self-measures and should be treated using drugs.

If you’re concerned that “my discharge smells bad but not fishy”, it’s worth observing whether there are any other symptoms. Sometimes, discharge may smell slightly metallic or sour without indicating a serious issue, but if it persists or worsens, a consultation is advised.

Also Read: Vaginal Laxity – What You Need to Know

How to Get Rid of Vaginal Odour at Home?

For those who are interested in eliminating vaginal odour at home, some easy and effective habits help to maintain vaginal health and can help eliminate foul odours naturally:

  • Practice Gentle Hygiene: Wash the vulva (but not the vagina) with warm water and a gentle, fragrance-free soap every day. Steer clear of douching, which disrupts natural flora.
  • Select Breathable Fabric: Cotton underwear and loose-fitting clothing permit air flow and prevent sweat accumulation.
  • Stay Hydrated: Adequate water consumption will flush out toxins and can lower body odour in general.
  • Healthy Diet: Consuming yoghurt with live cultures may restore good bacteria, and limiting sugar and processed foods may prevent yeast overgrowth.
  • Use pH-Balanced Products: Female hygiene products that do not disrupt the natural pH of the region may promote vaginal health.

Home treatment is typically sufficient to treat intermittent or mild vaginal odour. Persistent or heavy odour that fails to resolve despite good personal hygiene can be a sign of a problem. Knowing when home remedies are not sufficient and professional advice is necessary is useful.

Also Read: Yeast Infections vs. Bacterial Vaginosis

How to Eliminate Vaginal Odour with Medical Advice

When self-care doesn’t solve the issue, a gynaecologist can assess whether there's an infection or imbalance. Treatments may include:

  • Antibiotics: For bacterial vaginosis or other bacterial infections.
  • Antifungal Medication: If the issue is due to a yeast infection.
  • Topical Creams: These may help relieve itching and restore balance.

Don’t delay seeking help if you’re concerned. Many women suffer silently, but early treatment can make a big difference and prevent complications.

Expert Care and Support at Cloudnine

Professional assessment becomes necessary if vaginal smell is chronic, unpleasant or recurring. Cloudnine's expert professionals offer empathetic, personalised care for every phase of a woman's reproductive life. Proper diagnosis, advanced diagnostics, and individualised treatment are offered by their expert professionals. From a quick consultation to holistic care for chronic problems, Cloudnine empowers women and nurtures them.

Conclusion

Vaginal odour can be uncomfortable, but it’s usually manageable with the right approach. If you’ve been wondering how to get rid of vaginal odour at home, remember that small lifestyle changes can have a big impact. Still, don’t hesitate to seek medical advice if symptoms persist. Whether it’s understanding why your discharge smells foul but not fishy or finding safe ways to get rid of vaginal odour, support is available.

Cloudnine provides professional consultation and empathetic care to put you at ease regarding your intimate health. Make an appointment today and embark on the journey of comfort and awareness.

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