What things can I eat to reduce vaginal odor?
- Did you know what you eat can affect how you smell down there?
- If you eat strong-smelling foods such as onions and garlics, it can lead to a pungent smelling vagina.
- It is popularly known that cranberries and cranberry juice offers a myriad of health and beauty benefits on account of its high nutritional value known to be an effective treatment ...
How to get rid of vaginal odor with natural remedies?
Top 22 Home Remedies To Get Rid Of Vaginal Odor
- Tea Tree Oil. If you use scented commercial wipes and vaginal deodorants, it’s time to throw them in the trash bin.
- Baking Soda. If you thought baking soda finds its use only in cakes and bread recipes, you are wrong. ...
- Pineapple. ...
- Hydrogen Peroxide For Bacterial Vaginosis. ...
- Vitamin C With Rose Hips. ...
- Betel Leaves. ...
- Vinegar. ...
- Garlic. ...
- Chlorophyll. ...
- Yogurt. ...
How to get rid of BV odor without antibiotics?
Try an alternative remedy
- Apple cider vinegar. Apple cider vinegar may help balance vaginal pH. ...
- Garlic. Some research suggests that garlic is a natural antibacterial. ...
- Boric acid. Eating garlic can reduce the risk of BV because it can act as a natural antibacterial. ...
- Tea tree oil. A limited body of research suggests that application of tea tree oil might treat symptoms of BV. ...
How do you get rid of a vaginal odour?
Top 10 Ways on How to Get Rid of Vaginal Odor
- Apple Cider Vinegar. Apple cider vinegar contains amazing antibacterial and antiseptic properties that can help fight vaginal odor.
- Baking Soda. Baking soda can be used to balance the pH level in your body. ...
- Probiotics. ...
- White Vinegar and Sea Salt. ...
- Tea Tree Oil. ...
- Garlic. ...
- Fresh Fruits and Vegetables. ...
- Nuts and Seeds. ...
- Water. ...
- Neem Bark Extract. ...
How do you treat bacterial vaginosis smell?
The best treatments for bacterial vaginosisMetronidazole. One of the best prescription treatments for BV is an antibiotic called metronidazole. ... Clindamycin. Clindamycin is another effective prescription treatment for BV. ... Tinidazole. ... Secnidazole. ... Probiotics. ... Garlic. ... Boric acid.
Does a bacterial vaginal infection smell?
Check if you have bacterial vaginosis The most common symptom of bacterial vaginosis is unusual vaginal discharge that has a strong fishy smell, particularly after sex. You may notice a change to the colour and consistency of your discharge, such as becoming greyish-white and thin and watery.
How long does odor from BV take to go away?
Once you start treatment with a simple course of antibiotics, the symptoms of bacterial vaginosis (BV) usually go away within two to three days.
Can antibiotics cure vaginal odor?
Bacterial vaginosis can cause symptoms such as discharge with an unpleasant smell. The antibiotics clindamycin and metronidazole are both effective treatments for bacterial vaginosis.
Can other people smell my BV?
Can other people smell it too?" Dr. Kate, a gynecologist, answers: "No, all vaginas don't smell, or taste, the same...but they do all smell. Every woman has a different musky scent, and we tend to be very attuned to our own smell, even when no one else is aware of it.
Can bacterial vaginosis go away on its own?
Bacterial vaginosis often clears up on its own. But in some women it doesn't go away on its own. And for many women it comes back after it has cleared up. Antibiotic treatment works for some women but not others.
What does BV smell like?
Here's how you can tell the difference: Discharge: The hallmark sign of BV is discharge with a “fishy” smell. Discharge from yeast infections doesn't usually have a strong smell but may look like cottage cheese. Vaginal irritation: Typically, BV doesn't cause vaginal irritation or itchiness.
Why do I keep getting bacterial vaginosis?
BV is a result of an imbalance of “good” and “harmful” bacteria in a vagina. Douching, not using condoms, and having new or multiple sex partners can upset the normal balance of vaginal bacteria, increasing your risk for getting BV.
What happens if BV is left untreated?
Most often, BV does not cause other health problems. However, if left untreated, BV may increase your risk for: Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) like herpes, chlamydia, gonorrhea, and HIV. Pelvic inflammatory disease where BV bacteria infect the uterus or fallopian tubes.
What causes vaginal odor?
The vagina has a natural odor that varies slightly based on factors like your diet and menstrual cycle. Unusual vaginal odor is typically caused by...
What is a 'bad' vaginal smell?
A fishy, rotten, or spoiled smell could be a sign of infection and should be checked out by a healthcare professional.
What do yeast infections and BV smell like?
Usually, a yeast infection will make the vagina smell like a loaf of sourdough. BV, on the other hand, usually causes a fishy odor.
Can sex cause vaginal odor?
Semen and ejaculate have a different pH compared to the vaginal canal, so P-in-V intercourse can lead to a disruption in pH, and cause a temporary...
How long does vaginal odor take to go away?
Ultimately, it depends on the cause. But once you find the cause it shouldn’t take more than 2 to 3 days to clear up.
How to get rid of vaginal odor?
When the pH level is in balance, the problem of vaginal odor will dissipate, which means you can add natural deodorizer to the list of baking soda uses. ( 3) You can simply add half a cup of baking soda to your bathwater and soak for about 15–20 minutes.
How to get rid of a bad vaginal smell?
1. Apple Cider Vinegar. Apple cider vinegar contains amazing antibacterial and antiseptic properties that can help fight vaginal odor. ( 2) Taking a bath with apple cider vinegar can help fight off the toxins and bacteria that cause vaginal odor while restoring the acidic quality of the vaginal flora.
What does it mean when your vagina smells?
Vaginal odor is defined as any odor that originates from the vagina. It’s normal for your vagina to have a slight odor given it’s an opening to the interior of the body, but a strong vaginal smell, such as a fishy vaginal odor, could indicate a bigger problem and should be checked out with your physician.
What causes a foul smelling vagina?
2. Trichomoniasis. Trichomoniasis is another common cause of vaginal odor and is a sexually transmitted infection. In fact, it’s the most common non-viral STD in the world. ( 16 ) Trichomoniasis is caused by a parasite and can cause a foul-smelling vaginal discharge, genital itching and painful urination.
Why does my vagina smell?
It has a high rate of recurrence, affecting nearly 30 percent of women who are in their reproductive years, and is associated with miscarriage, preterm birth, as well as the increased risk of acquiring other sexually transmitted infections. One of the biggest indicators of bacterial vaginosis is a “fishy” odor.
What are some good foods to eat to boost your vaginal health?
Fresh Fruits and Vegetables. Fresh, organic, whole fruits and vegetables are always key to a healthy body and support vaginal health due to the numerous vitamins and minerals they contain. We know that vitamin C, found in citrus fruits, guava, strawberries, kiwi, and green and red peppers, is an immune system booster.
Why is water important for vaginal health?
The mucous vaginal membranes need water to function properly so they remain well-hydrated. Water helps lubricate your vagina naturally , which aids in diminishing vaginal smells. ( 11)
How to get rid of a vaginal odor?
Consider wearing no underwear or basic cotton. Avoid tight underwear, pantyhose, and girdles. Maintain a Healthy Weight. Often, “vaginal odor” doesn’t come from the vagina at all. Excessive flesh around the folds and inner thighs due to being overweight can be a breeding ground for bacteria.
Why does my vagina smell?
Common causes of abnormal vaginal odors include: Bacterial vaginosis, an infection caused by bacterial overgrowth. Trichomoniasis, a sexually transmitted infection caused by a parasite. A tampon left in place for too long.
What does it mean when you smell fishy?
If you experience any of the following, schedule an appointment with a doctor: Itching. Burning. Discharge. Irritation or pain. In addition, if you smell a strong, fishy odor, you may have bacterial vaginosis (vaginal infection) or trichomoniasis (a sexually transmitted disease caused by a parasite).
How to prevent bacterial vaginosis?
Just urinate to clear foreign substances. Try Probiotics. While the scientific evidence is still sketchy, there is some suggestion that certain oral probiotics can protect against bacterial vaginosis. If you experience frequent infections, you might want to talk to your doctor about probiotics or other options.
How to stop a period from smelling?
Try switching to a menstrual cup or tampon during your period, but be sure to change them frequently. Use a Condom and Pee After Sex . Semen can irritate the vagina, producing smell or discharge. Avoid using a douche after sex.
What does it mean to douch your vagina?
Douching refers to washing out the vagina with water or other fluids. It’s a fairly common practice, but doctors recommend against it. Douching can lead to vaginal infections. Moreover, if you already have an infection, douching can push bacteria into the uterus, fallopian tubes, or ovaries. When to See a Doctor.
Does the smell of a woman's vagina affect the period?
In addition to the impact that the menstrual cycle itself has on smell, vaginal odor can vary throughout the period of menstruation. Many women suffer from misinformation and insecurity regarding vaginal odor. Normal smells are nothing to be concerned about, and small changes in scent should resolve themselves.
How to get rid of a bad vaginal odor?
5. Drink cranberry juice. The acidity and antioxidants in cranberries, as well as citrus fruits, can help reduce vaginal odor by discouraging bacterial growth.
Why does my vagina smell?
Your vagina will always have a scent of its own. If that scent intensifies, it could be a sign of a serious problem, one that you may be unable to treat on your own. It’s best to see a doctor early before the problem grows worse.
What can cause a bad smell in the vagina?
Using scented soaps or feminine products often have chemicals that irritate the vagina’s PH which can cause a bad smell. 3. Wear cotton underwear. Satin, silk and polyester panties can retain moisture, upsetting your natural bacteria levels and leading to foul odors. 4.
How to boost the number of good bacteria in your vagina?
A self-help approach is lactobacillus colonization therapy — which attempts to boost the number of good bacteria in your vagina and re-establish a balanced vaginal environment — possibly accomplished by eating certain types of yogurt or other foods containing lactobacilli.
What is the best medicine for bacterial vaginosis?
To treat bacterial vaginosis, your doctor may prescribe one of the following medications: Metronidazole (Flagyl, Metrogel-Vaginal, others). This medicine may be taken as a pill by mouth (orally). Metronidazole is also available as a topical gel that you insert into your vagina.
How long does it take for bacterial vaginosis to recur?
It's common for bacterial vaginosis to recur within three to 12 months, despite treatment. Researchers are exploring treatments for recurrent bacterial vaginosis. If your symptoms recur soon after treatment, talk with your doctor about treatments. One option may be extended-use metronidazole therapy.
How long does Clindamycin last in vagina?
This medicine is available as a cream that you insert into your vagina. Clindamycin cream may weaken latex condoms during treatment and for at least three days after you stop using the cream. Tinidazole (Tindamax). This medication is taken orally.
How to make the best use of your time with your doctor?
To make the best use of your time with your doctor and prevent you from forgetting an important question: Make a list of any symptoms you're experiencing. Include all of your symptoms, even if you don't think they're related. Make a list of any medications, vitamins, herbs or other supplements you take.
How to diagnose bacterial vaginosis?
Open pop-up dialog box. Close. Pelvic examination. Pelvic examination. In a pelvic exam, your physician inserts two gloved fingers inside your vagina. While simultaneously pressing down on your abdomen, he or she can examine your uterus, ovaries and other organs. To diagnose bacterial vaginosis, your doctor may: ...
Can a doctor observe a discharge?
That way, your primary care doctor or gynecologist can observe and evaluate your vaginal discharge without menstrual discharge getting in the way. Avoid using tampons and vaginal deodorant sprays, and don't douche or have sex for 24 hours before your appointment.
How to get rid of BV in vagina?
Taking probiotics and eating yogurt with “live and active cultures” may help restore the bacterial balance in the vagina, she says. And, she adds, because BV has symptoms similar to other infections, it’s a good idea to see your doctor if you think you have any type of vaginal infection. Advertising Policy.
Why does my vagina smell fishy?
Your vagina, by nature, has a slight smell. But a strong odor – one that many women describe as “fishy” – could be a sign of infection. The culprit is likely bacterial vaginosis (BV). It’s a common vaginal infection that seldom causes physical discomfort.
Can BV cause preterm delivery?
There is an exception: BV may increase the risk of preterm delivery. So in pregnant women, doctors typically recommend treating the infection even when it’s not causing symptoms, Dr. Goje says. Dr. Goje notes that others may catch the infection from you.
Can you take antibiotics with a vaginal gel?
If treatment is necessary, your doctor likely will prescribe antibiotics either in pill form or a vaginal gel or ointment. However, because antibiotics can cause stomach upset and other side effects, your doctor may recommend against treatment unless symptoms are bothersome.
Can BV cause emotional distress?
But it can cause non-medical problems. “Education is key, because BV can cause a lot of emotional and psychological distress,” says Ob/Gyn and infectious disease specialist Oluwatosin Goje, MD – like making you feel sexually undesirable or self-conscious, for instance.
Is BV a sexually transmitted disease?
BV often accompanies an active sex life, but it’s not a sexually transmitted disease. Bacteria are a natural part of the vagina, but with BV, something upsets the normal balance. There is an overgrowth of “bad” bacteria, and “good” (protective) bacteria are overwhelmed or can’t keep up.
Does BV smell after sex?
The odor that accompanies BV is often strongest after sex or during menstruation. But between half and three-quarters of women with BV don’t have any symptoms. “Your doctor may diagnose BV after noticing a slight odor or discharge during a routine wellness visit,” Dr. Goje says.
What to do if you have a bad vaginal odor?
When to see a doctor. If you have persistent abnormal vaginal odor and any of the other signs or symptoms mentioned previously, you should contact your doctor as soon as it is possible. You could have a severe infection or cancer.
Why does my vagina smell?
The most common causes. Abnormal vaginal odor is usually caused by one of the following: Bacterial vaginosis (the majority of women with symptoms have an abnormal vaginal odor) In rare cases, abnormal vaginal odor may result from a yeast infection or vaginal or cervical cancer.
How soon does an abnormal vaginal odor appear?
How soon an abnormal odor is likely to develop. When an abnormal vaginal odor is caused by an infection, it will appear after the infection’s incubation period. Mostly, women do not experience any symptoms (85% of women with trichomoniasis and half of those with bacterial vaginosis are asymptomatic).
Can yeast infection cause a vaginal odor?
We know from research that bacterial vaginosis and yeast infections are not sexually transmitted. This means that the only cause of abnormal vaginal odor that may be transmitted during sexual intercourse is trichomoniasis. The first signs of it (including abnormal odor) become noticeable 5–28 days after the person is infected.
Is it normal to smell your vagina?
A slight vaginal o dor is considered normal. It may become more noticeable during certain days of the menstrual cycle or right after sex. Some foods (spices, coffee, onions) may also change the odor of vaginal fluids. However, sometimes vaginal odor may be a warning sign of a serious health problem—especially when it is accompanied by other signs ...
Can you tell if you have an abnormal vaginal odor?
Do not try to diagnose yourself. No! Since different conditions may manifest in the same way, you cannot tell by the smell what the cause of abnormal vaginal odor is. Moreover, self-diagnosis and self-treatment are likely to be ineffective and may be harmful.
What is the best way to get rid of bad bacteria in your vagina?
1. Yogurt. Yogurt is a natural probiotic, which means it has plenty of healthy bacteria in it. Eating yogurt may help introduce healthy bacteria back into the body. This helps establish a balanced vaginal environment and could help fight off the bad bacteria.
What is the best treatment for bacterial vaginosis?
Boric acid . Boric acid capsules can be used to treat bacterial vaginosis. In an early study, a combination of suppressive antimicrobial therapy and intravaginal boric acid were used to treat recurring bacterial vaginosis in 58 women.
What is a vaginal infection?
Bacterial vaginosis. Bacterial vaginosis is a vaginal infection caused by an overgrowth of bacteria. The vagina naturally has an environment containing “good” and “bad” bacteria. In cases of bacterial vaginosis, there’s an excess of bad bacteria, which throws the vaginal environment out of balance. Bacterial vaginosis is a common condition ...
What happens if you don't treat bacterial vaginosis?
Risks and complications. If home remedies don’t work, bacterial vaginosis could continue and worsen if it’s not treated. Having raw areas of skin in and around your vagina increases a number of risks, including: increased risk of contracting HIV if exposed to the virus.
What to do if bacterial vaginosis is recurrent?
Also, make an appointment with your doctor right away if your bacterial vaginosis is recurrent. You can book an appointment with an OBGYN in your area using our Healthline FindCare tool.
Why do we need condoms?
Safer sex. According to the Office of Women’s Health, using condoms can help reduce your risk for bacterial vaginosis. Having sex with new or multiple sexual partners without using a barrier method can increase your risk. Always use condoms or other barrier methods to help in practicing safer sex.
Does yogurt contain probiotics?
Yogurt contains some probiotics. But there are plenty of probiotic supplements available. According to a 2014 review. Trusted Source. , which focused on the effects of probiotics on bacterial vaginosis, there’s evidence that taking probiotic supplements daily can help treat and prevent bacterial vaginosis.
What is the best treatment for bacterial vaginosis?
Another promising remedy is boric acid, a white powder with antifungal and antiviral properties. According to limited research, boric acid suppositories inserted into your vagina may help treat bacterial vaginosis, with few side effects. However, more research is needed, so it’s important to check with your doctor before using boric acid.
How to keep your vagina healthy?
Taking a daily women’s probiotic with high levels of Lactobacilli (“good” bacteria) may help keep your vaginal bacterial balance healthy. Many women say that probiotics help them avoid infections, but more research is needed on this subject. While you have bacterial vaginosis, avoid sex until your infection is treated.
How to tell if your vagina is infected?
Over-the-counter tests can tell you if your vagina’s pH is higher than normal, which can tell you if your infection is likely bacterial vaginosis. These tests aren’t always accurate, so if you’re unsure, go to your doctor. Probiotics, live bacteria found in some foods and supplements, might help restore balance to your vaginal bacteria.
What is BV in women?
When to See a Doctor. Bacterial vaginosis, commonly known as BV, is the most common vaginal infection. Nearly 30% of women in the U.S. will experience bacterial vaginosis at some point in their lifetime. Bacterial vaginosis happens when naturally-occurring so-called “bad” bacteria outnumber the “good” bacteria (lactobacilli) in the vagina.
Can bacterial vaginosis go away on its own?
For some women, mild cases of bacterial vaginosis will go away on their own. However, there are a few remedies you can try at home to relieve symptoms and speed your recovery. If you are unsure whether you have bacterial vaginosis or a yeast infection, go see your doctor.
Is bacterial vaginosis more common in women who are sexually active?
Doctors are unsure what causes this imbalance. However, bacterial vaginosis is more common in women who are sexually active and in women who douche. While many women with bacterial vaginosis don’t experience symptoms, others do. Symptoms may include:
Can bacterial vaginosis spread to females?
It is unusual for bacterial vaginosis to spread to male sexual partners, but it can be spread to female sexual partners. If this happens, female partners may need to be treated as well. While bacterial vaginosis is usually mild, in more severe cases it can have lasting impacts if left untreated.