You should never clean inside your vagina, such as with douches. What Can I Do About My Post-Period Funky Odor? nichd.nih.gov/health/topics/menstruation/conditioninfo, kidshealth.org/en/teens/menstruation.html, cdc.gov/std/bv/stdfact-bacterial-vaginosis.htm, kidshealth.org/en/teens/feminine-hygiene.html, mayoclinic.org/symptoms/vaginal-odor/basics/definition/SYM-20050664, fda.gov/MedicalDevices/ProductsandMedicalProcedures/InVitroDiagnostics/HomeUseTests/ucm126074.htm, girlshealth.gov/body/health_help/gynecologist.html. Here are some ideas on how you can keep these smells at bay during that time of the month: Invest in period panties with antibacterial properties Change your period panties every few hours Wash your period panties thoroughly and regularly Rinse off your vulva daily with water and a hypoallergenic soap Apr 1, 2019. If you experience spotting instead of your normal period, it could be due to a number of different things. Is there a way to get rid of old blood after period. Avoid scented tampons and other products, as these can cause irritation and allergic reactions. Lemon juice: Mix lemon juice and water in a spray bottle. While some odors are completely normal when you have your period, others may be a sign that you need to see your doctor. Excessive flesh around the folds and inner thighs due to being overweight can be a breeding ground for bacteria. Smegma can occur in uncircumcised males, causing dead skin cells, fluids, and oils to build up. Heavy flows and cramps can be a common experience during your periods. If there are any fishy or foul-smelling odors associated with your period, seek medical advice. Antibiotics should not cause you to get an odor during your period. Thanks to all authors for creating a page that has been read 679,244 times. It is a quite annoying problem and can lead to major discomfort and embarrassment during intimate moments. 10K followers View more on Instagram 95 likes Add a comment. You should seek professional medical help if you notice an abrupt change in your vaginal odor. Debra Rose Wilson, Ph.D., MSN, R.N., IBCLC, AHN-BC, CHT. (2015). The citric acid in lemon juice kills bacteria. So, what's a girl to do? Menstruation in girls and adolescents: Using the menstrual cycle as a vital sign. I passed urine immediately after sex. If tight clothes or jeans are worn regularly, they may lead to excessive vaginal sweating, which in turn triggers bacteria build-up, thereby leading to unpleasant smells. Other times brown discharge after a period is old blood from a previous period. Your own menstrual scent is normal and you shouldn't aim to have a completely scent-free period. You may have bacterial vaginosis if the fishy smell is accompanied by: Bacterial vaginosis may be noticeable during your period, but its not caused by your menstrual cycle. This can happen at the end of a period, when you dont have to insert a new tampon as often and you have no further bleeding. A normal vaginal pH level is between 3.8 and 4.5, which is moderately acidic. Normal smells are nothing to be concerned about, and small changes in scent should resolve themselves. They may even have a slight metallic smell from iron and bacteria. Throughout your menstrual cycle, the color and consistency of blood can change. Expert Review of Anti-Infective Therapy: Bacterial vaginosis: an update on diagnosis and treatment., Journal of the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners: Factors influencing womens decisions to self-treat vaginal symptoms., Mayo Clinic: Vaginal odor: When to see a doctor., Mayo Clinic: You dont need fancy products for good feminine hygiene., Office on Womens Health: Douching.. Heres a look at what it could mean: If you experience brown discharge and cramps after your period, it could be caused by PCOS or early pregnancy. Most women have a musky or fleshy natural scent, but this varies from person to person. Bacterial vaginosis is treated with antibiotics. Maintain personal hygiene by bathing regularly and trimming pubic hairs. With cloth pads, I rinse/wring them out until most of the blood is gone, then put them in the washer with baking soda in the prewash and vinegar in the fabric softener. On light days, don't go more than three to four hours without changing it during the day. They sell it in small soap shaped pieces (though I just use my sink), was thinking maybe something like that could fit in your . They pay a price for not dealing with menstruating each month though, in that the flow they get can have a stronger odor than one that is shed more regularly. It results from the overgrowth of normal vaginal bacteria. Get tested for vaginal infections if your odor persists or is very strong. The smell. This will also aid in maintaining the pH balance of your vagina, resulting in no period blood odour. Use the wipe as you would toilet paper after using the restroom, wiping only on the outside of your body. If you experience any of the following, schedule an appointment with a doctor: 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). Gray/off-white creamy discharge that smells fishy: If the smelly discharge after period is off-white or gray in color, is creamy and smells fishy, then it could be from bacterial vaginosis. Use it to try out great new products and services nationwide without paying full pricewine, food delivery, clothing and more. PCOS and perimenopause are common causes. Healthline only shows you brands and products that we stand behind. Don't be afraid to ask a friend for a tampon or pad if you need one. Good. It is impossible for a tampon to get "lost" in your body, so if it's still in there, you should be able to. You should also avoid wearing thongs during your period, which can transfer bacteria from your anus to your vagina and cause infections. Yoghurt: Eat more quantities of natural yoghurt. All texts are contributed by our excellent writers. A yeast infection can occur during or after your period, as well as any time of the month . Last Updated: June 12, 2021 Many period underwear has antibacterial properties to reduce the odour and bacteria, but if they do smell, Wuka advise diluting white vinegar in a thin layer of water (1 part vinegar, 3 parts water - just enough to cover your underwear) and soaking your underwear for 20 minutes. According to the University of Chicago, scented products contain chemicals that irritate your vagina, which can lead to increased discharge, infections and increased vaginal odor. While most odors are healthy, some may be signs of an infection. It's not normal to have strong menstrual period odor, but it's also not normal to have zero odor. Remember, it is natural to have a body that smells like a body, and genitals that smell like genitals. Dr. Noriega is a Board Certified Obstetrician & Gynecologist and medical writer in Colorado. While the exact cause of this overgrowth isnt understood, bacterial vaginosis seems to be most common in women who are sexually active. See additional information. Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a condition that affects a womans hormone levels. If infection is present, your doctor can help you clear up the infection and the odor. Is Stringy Period Blood a Cause for Concern? To minimize it, I bathed regularly, used warm water and mild soap to wash the vaginal area. BV is sometimes accompanied by itching or burning, but other times there are no symptoms except a foul smell. Try switching to a menstrual cup or tampon during your period, but be sure to change them frequently. Keep a supply of tampons or pads in your bathroom so that you won't have to run to the store when your period starts. Higher levels of male hormones cause irregular periods and sometimes no period at all. womenshealth.gov. Occasionally, brown and bloody discharge could be a sign of a problem when its accompanied by other symptoms. Our team thoroughly researches and evaluates the recommendations we make on our site. If your period smells and you notice unusual symptoms, see your doctor. See a doctor if youre worried about your discharge or have a lot of it. Trich can also cause itching, burning, pain while peeing or ejaculating, and abnormal yellow-green discharge. Your bodys hormonal balance is disturbed, therefore, you are required to visit a gynecologist and get a prescription medicine to treat the infection. She received her MD from the Creighton School of Medicine in Omaha, Nebraska and completed her residency at the University of Missouri - Kansas City in 2005. Perimenopause is when your body begins to make the natural transition to menopause. There are 8 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page. Don't think this only pertains to tampon use because bacteria can build from other period hygiene products too. Our experts continually monitor the health and wellness space, and we update our articles when new information becomes available. 1,591 satisfied customers. This will also reduce the sweat in the area, which can increase the menstrual odor. It could just be that some menstrual fluid is hanging around due to a heavy or thick flow. But if you start noticing anything out of the ordinary, you may want to get it checked out. In fact, some soaps may make things worse, changing the environment in a way that leads to bacterial growth. If you wear tampons, know the warning signs of, Board Certified Obstetrician & Gynecologist. "Started my period yesterday and wasn't shocked as a few days before I'd got severe stomach cramps and I am 13. Your Privacy Choices: Opt Out of Sale/Targeted Ads. Is there anything from the pharmacy I could try for the smell if all of the things listed in the article were unsuccessful? pH balance pills and probiotics may help balance your vagina's natural pH level. Trichomoniasis is an amoebic infection that is potentially harmless. To wash the exterior folds of the vagina, use a gentle soap that wont alter pH levels. Healthline has strict sourcing guidelines and relies on peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions, and medical associations. Both body odor and vaginal odor can be influenced by diet, and some foods like garlic, coffee, and fried foods are known to have an effect on the smell. A normal period consists of blood, menstrual fluid, excess tissue, and an unfertilized egg. Learn how IUDs can affect your menstrual flow and what you can do about it. This scent is usually mild enough that others can't smell it through your clothes, but you'll be able to smell it when you use the bathroom or change your clothes. // Leaf Group Lifestyle, How to Freshen Yourself After Menstrual Cycle, These Foods Will Make Your Vagina Smell Bad, How to Get Rid of Vaginal Odor Without Going to the Doctor, Eastern Carolina University Family Practice Center: Menstruation Facts. Vagina Quiz: What Do You Know About Down Below. By using our site, you agree to our. These steps are for normal menstrual odor only. How to Prevent Vaginal Odor after Period Maintain personal hygiene by bathing regularly and trimming pubic hairs. Often, vaginal odor doesnt come from the vagina at all. A strong odor from down there may be cause for worry, as it could be a sign of an infection. Thanks wikiHow for educating me on how to stay fresh during my periods!!! Other signs and symptoms of early pregnancy include: While brown discharge after a period by itself usually isnt a big deal, it could indicate a problem when accompanied by other symptoms. Get acquainted with your natural smell. Healthline Media does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Often, a vaginal odor that requires a doctors visit will be accompanied by other vaginal symptoms. Use a mild soap or body wash on your whole body, including your vulva, and rinse well. We use cookies to make wikiHow great. Early miscarriage could also cause these symptoms. Typically, you should seek medical attention for vaginal odor if it is fishy or different from normal. You may also have cycles without ovulation. You may also experience missed periods followed by brown discharge if youve recently started using a new hormonal birth control. Wolf WM, et al. These include: Other common symptoms to look out for include: If you miss a period, you may have brownish discharge in place of a regular period or have it sometime after your period would have ended. ", "It helped me a lot I now know how to keep myself fresh and comfortable even if I'm on my periods.". Perimenopause periods can be longer or shorter. Brown discharge after your period usually isnt a cause for concern as its nothing more than old, dried blood. I avoided using scented feminine products and douches in the vaginal area. Overwhelmed by the ever-growing world of period underwear? Many women suffer from misinformation and insecurity regarding vaginal odor. I have been having a smelly vaginal discharge for the past 4 months after my periods. The main reason being that your gut bacteria change during your period, which can make . Women's Health may earn commission from the links on this page, but we only feature products we believe in. We include products we think are useful for our readers. Abnormal uterine bleeding is any vaginal bleeding that occurs between periods. There are plenty of non-scented products out there, and some, such as reusable cotton pads, often avoid the toxic chemicals commonly associated with the disposable pads and tampons, though there are some disposable pads and tampons that don't have the harmful chemicals, and may be available in your local health food store. Sometimes there aren't enough showers or fresh undies in the world to fix that post-period funk. Powered by enkimd.com. A Period That Lasts 1 or 2 Days: What Could Cause This? Just be warned: "Some very strong-smelling foods like asparagus . Feminine sprays, scented wipes and scented pads or tampons can make menstrual odor worse. Include your email address to get a message when this question is answered. Avoid fragrances or harsh soaps, as these can irritate the vagina. PCOS affects between 6 and 10 percent of women of childbearing age. Menstrual cups can be worn for an extended period of time (up to 10-12 hours). In such cases, the odors are accompanied by other symptoms, such as vaginal discharge or pelvic pain thats not related to normal menstruation. To establish that the product manufacturers addressed safety and efficacy standards, we: We do the research so you can find trusted products for your health and wellness. "Healthy" periods can have a slight smell of blood. Any odors you might notice during your period can also fluctuate. (2015). This is because period blood contains iron. Board Certified Obstetrician & Gynecologist. Irregular menstrual bleeding and brown discharge as your body adjusts to the hormone are common side effects. If I have been on antibiotics, could that be the cause of the horrible smell I started getting while on my period? % of people told us that this article helped them. Wear cotton underwear. Brown discharge can replace a period or come after a missed period during early pregnancy. Use menstrual cups instead of pads and tampons to avoid the odour of your period. For instance wearing gauchos, skirts, or loose shorts or pants, instead of tight-fitting jeans or pants, can make your genital area more airy. % of people told us that this article helped them. This article has been viewed 533,314 times. According to the Eastern Carolina University Family Practice Center, you should change your pad or tampon every three to four hours 2. Be sure to discard it in the trash can, as they are not made to flush and can clog sewer lines. It is a 6-day treatment so plan on using it well before or after your period. Here's the deal: The vagina requires a low pH in order to be inhabited by healthy bacteria. Soak in the water bath for around 15 minutes. This article received 16 testimonials and 84% of readers who voted found it helpful, earning it our reader-approved status. Some people cant smell their periods at all. Wipe thoroughly or soak your menstrual cup for an hour in a water and clear vinegar mixture (50-50 is a good ratio). Daily showers are also important, and you can help prevent period odors by cleaning the outside of your vagina only. Summary. Change sanitary pads and tampons frequently. You can place a clove of garlic into your vagina for around 2 hours. There could be other complications present if the discharge is present even after one or more weeks after your periods. See what to do. Not only are these fermented foods and drinks good for your gut, but they can also help maintain your vagina's pH balance. There are 11 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page. Changes to your menstrual cycle, such as missed periods or irregular periods, or heavy periods could also indicate a problem. There are a few reasons why period farts smell have such a unique scent. Dr. Noriega is a Board Certified Obstetrician & Gynecologist and medical writer in Colorado. Brown discharge can be a sign of a problem when its accompanied by other symptoms, such as pain, itching, and a strong odor. The procedure should be repeated at least 2 times a week to restore the pH of the vagina and reduce any discharge and odors. Debra Rose Wilson, Ph.D., MSN, R.N., IBCLC, AHN-BC, CHT. The more blood that collects in one place and comes into contact with air, the stronger your odor will be. Then pop them in the wash with more vinegar, and/or add a few . A slightly sweet or bittersweet smell, like molasses or gingerbread, may also be a sign that your pH levels have changed. It really just depends on how well your uterus sheds its lining and the speed at which it exits your body. Sanitary napkins frequently present a more noticeable smell. Still, occasionally it may be strong enough to become problematic, and you need to take steps to eliminate it. Last medically reviewed on June 13, 2018. Thanks. Boil 1 liter of water and add the Stryphnodendron bark. Douching may also increase your risk for this type of infection. This combination of bodily fluids and tissue may have a slight smell to it, often metallic because of the iron in your blood, but it generally is not very strong or overpowering. Most people begin their period around age 12. It doesn't smell the greatest, and it's stressing me out. Don't wash the inside of your vagina. Instead of using perfume to mask. I sat for 2 hours and the smell and discharge has gone. If you wish to wear a perfume or fragrance, try ones that go on your wrist or neck, as they do not have the same concerns as vaginal fragrances. Are Kourt's Lemme Gummies Doing What They Claim? Use unscented baby wipes for a quick way to freshen up on the go. Lifestyle factors. A rotten smell can occur when a tampon is left in for too long or forgotten. Period blood has a high pH, which can tip the balance and allow bad bacteria to move in, pushing out the kind you want, Streicher says. This is a treatment that is inserted directly into the vagina and is stated to stimulate the body to regain and maintain the correct balance which can eliminate odor. Garlic: Garlic has natural antibiotic properties and it kills bacteria and reduces odors. By using our site, you agree to our, {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/5\/54\/Choose-the-Correct-Menstrual-Cup-Size-Step-10-Version-2.jpg\/v4-460px-Choose-the-Correct-Menstrual-Cup-Size-Step-10-Version-2.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/5\/54\/Choose-the-Correct-Menstrual-Cup-Size-Step-10-Version-2.jpg\/aid420572-v4-728px-Choose-the-Correct-Menstrual-Cup-Size-Step-10-Version-2.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"