Hearst Magazine Media, Inc. All Rights Reserved. Healthline Media does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Notice the smell of ammonia around your vagina? Your period can produce an odor, which may even be different month to month. Some women like the convenience of only dealing with having a period a few times per year. Smelly, brown discharge: If you experience smelly, brown discharge after menses, then it is quite possible that it is caused by some bacteria. It could just be that some menstrual fluid is hanging around due to a heavy or thick flow. Good. How to decode your vaginal discharge - and when to worry. This is most likely related to the vaginal substance itself, but bacteria and acidity can also play a role. Wolf WM, et al. Approved. Good hygiene practices can also combat normal period odors and make you more comfortable during menstruation. Try switching to a menstrual cup or tampon during your period, but be sure to change them frequently. A period so heavy that it prevents you from doing everyday activities isnt, A menstrual period is vaginal bleeding that occurs at the end of the monthly menstrual cycle. Youre better off using unscented products and wearing breathable cotton underwear and clothing to keep unpleasant odors at bay. Its normal for menstrual periods to have a slight odor. Spray the mixture onto your armpits. Get acquainted with your natural smell. If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. Last month, I decided to sit in some warm water bath with a cup of apple cider vinegar in it. By using our site, you agree to our. For more information about your period from our gynecologist co-author like recognizing your bodys signals, scroll down. Trich can also cause itching, burning, pain while peeing or ejaculating, and abnormal yellow-green discharge. There are a few reasons why period farts smell have such a unique scent. BV causes a grayish-colored discharge and is accompanied by pain, redness, and itching. We avoid using tertiary references. You do not need to use a special soap made for your genitals; these are a marketing gimmick meant to exploit your self-consciousness about your period. 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. I had my first period a month ago and now I know how I can keep clean. Feminine sprays, scented wipes and scented pads or tampons can make menstrual odor worse. Most women have a musky or fleshy natural scent, but this varies from person to person. Board Certified Obstetrician & Gynecologist. Wear cotton underwear. It's not normal to have strong menstrual period odor, but it's also not normal to have zero odor. But orange discharge may be a sign of a number of. Are Kourt's Lemme Gummies Doing What They Claim? Use the wipe as you would toilet paper after using the restroom, wiping only on the outside of your body. Practicing yoga 35 to 40 minutes a day, 5 times per week, may help regulate hormones and menstrual cycles. If your period smells and you notice unusual symptoms, see your doctor. Enjoy! Bathe regularly to prevent future odors of this type. Once the bacteria is balanced out after treatment, you should no longer notice any unusual smells or other symptoms during your period. The Best Period Underwear Options for Any Situation, COVID-19 Vaccine May Cause Temporary, Minor Disruptions in Menstrual Cycle. 10 Zyrtec Side Effects You Should Know About, 13 Best Prenatal Vitamins Of 2023, Per Doctors, Meghann Fahy's Workout & Wellness Routines, How To Get Rid Of Any Kind Of Stomach Pain, What Are Intrusive Thoughts? We use cookies to make wikiHow great. As Gersh puts it, "A balanced diet makes for a healthy body, and that includes your vagina.". Sometimes the bleeding and cramps caused by miscarriage are mistaken for a period. Use a gentle soap and your hands to clean the vaginal area. Remember, it is natural to have a body that smells like a body, and genitals that smell like genitals. Avoid scented products In fact, some soaps may make things worse, changing the environment in a way that leads to bacterial growth. By choosing the right menstrual products for your body, maintaining proper hygiene, and preparing for your period, you can decrease the overall menstrual odor. 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. If you notice an abrupt change in your menstrual cycle, you may need to see a doctor. 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. Hence, prompt medical attention and treatment is important. (2018). Every month, your body prepares to become pregnant. Take a bath or shower, even if you've already bathed that day. Allow this to boil for 10 minutes and turn off the stove. There are some alternatives that you can use, if you don't have cup wipes or a proper liquid wash at hand. It results from the overgrowth of normal vaginal bacteria. Any body odor can be problematic for anyone who wants to be around other people. Because the odor has nothing to do with hygiene, says Lauren Streicher, M.D., Medical Director of the Northwestern Medicine Center for Sexual Medicine and Menopause. Moreover, if you already have an infection, douching can push bacteria into the uterus, fallopian tubes, or ovaries.. Still, occasionally it may be strong enough to become problematic, and you need to take steps to eliminate it. Copyright 2023 Leaf Group Ltd., all rights reserved. Higher levels of male hormones cause irregular periods and sometimes no period at all. Then pop them in the wash with more vinegar, and/or add a few . All of the test were negative. However, when the vagina has a strong, unpleasant smell that continues for days, it may be a sign of a health problem. You should seek professional medical help if you notice an abrupt change in your vaginal odor. Your vagina is a self-cleaning organ that naturally produces the right balance of mucus to flush out any contaminants, and a douche or wash can disrupt your pH balance and lead to infection. Our experts continually monitor the health and wellness space, and we update our articles when new information becomes available. "Healthy" periods can have a slight smell of blood. White vinegar and salt: Add these two ingredients in the proportion of 1:1/2 and mix into your water bath. Some of these are: Apple cider vinegar: Apple cider vinegar works by restoring the acidic nature of the flora present in the vagina. If no infection is present, this means just a few simple changes in your menstrual routine. In such cases it is recommended to get tested at the earliest because Chlamydia, if not treated early could result in infertility. Use menstrual cups instead of pads and tampons to avoid the odour of your period. This is normal, but if it bothers you, consider wearing tampons or menstrual cups, or changing your pad more frequently. . She's also written extensively on gardening and cooking. Urine that has an unusual smell may be a sign of diabetes, an infection, eating asparagus, or using certain medications, among other causes. 2019;8(1) doi:10.3390/jcm8010076. Itching can also indicate that you may have an infection. There are 8 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page. Smegma can occur in uncircumcised males, causing dead skin cells, fluids, and oils to build up. It is a 6-day treatment so plan on using it well before or after your period. This occurs when you forget to remove your tampon, and the old tampon is still in your body. To minimize it, I bathed regularly, used warm water and mild soap to wash the vaginal area. The citric acid in lemon juice kills bacteria. Here's what the different period blood colors mean and when to see your doctor. But look around. Its a fairly common practice, but doctors recommend against it. Jan 31, 2017. Dry your clothes in the sun: Dry your clothes in the sun as the sun's UV rays can kill bacteria and freshen up your clothes, which can help to reduce vaginal odors. We've rounded up popular options based on a range of needs, whether you're looking for a. In fact, self-treatment of perceived vaginal symptoms can sometimes create a problem where there wasnt one before. Instead, just ensure to clean your private area daily with plain warm water and mild soap. Some women report a fishy smell during menstruation. Other odor changes during your period can include a sweaty gym smell or an odor of onions or salt. Switch to Tampons or a Menstrual Cup Sanitary napkins frequently present a more noticeable smell. The brown color is the result of oxidation, which is a normal process. Geographical prevalence of polycystic ovary syndrome as determined by region and race/ethnicity. The smell is usually caused by old blood, which has a bad, zoo-like scent when it oxidizes, Dr. Shepherd says. It can begin as many as 10 years before the official start of menopause, usually in a womans 30s and 40s. Last Updated: February 17, 2022 Find out what could be causing it and how to prevent it in the future. Douching may also increase your risk for this type of infection. Your vaginal discharge may smell slightly metallic like copper pennies when you're menstruating. These steps are for normal menstrual odor only. As a general rule, a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins, will elicit a softer scent compared to greasy, fast foods. STD Facts - Trichomoniasis. Your period blood is actually to blame. Generally speaking, period odors aren't noticeable to others. Don't be afraid to ask a friend for a tampon or pad if you need one. Bacterial vaginosis is treated with antibiotics. 2. Occasionally, brown and bloody discharge could be a sign of a problem when its accompanied by other symptoms. But be careful not to damage the air holes and clean them carefully. This article has been viewed 679,244 times. I wash them on the normal cycle with the prewash option on. A forgotten tampon causes the absolute worst vaginal odor, Dr. Streicher says. Keep a tampon or pad with you in your purse, locker, and/or car for emergencies. References Any odors you might notice during your period can also fluctuate. ago. Labiaplasty recovery has several different phases, each marked by its own set of sensations and activity guidelines. Typically, you should seek medical attention for vaginal odor if it is fishy or different from normal. Because they are worn internally, they can help reduce the smell of menstrual blood during your period. In this situation, consider wearing a tampon or menstrual cup, which is inside the body, or change your pad more frequently. It can be thin and watery one day, and thick and clumpy the next. [8] You may want to shower more than once on heavier days. Lifestyle factors. If I have been on antibiotics, could that be the cause of the horrible smell I started getting while on my period? Healthline only shows you brands and products that we stand behind. Menstruation in girls and adolescents: Using the menstrual cycle as a vital sign. Smelly white discharge: If you have a smelly white discharge after menses, then there is a possibility of a thrush or a yeast infection due to Candida albicans. The vagina's acidic environment and the presence of different types of healthful bacteria may. Schedule an appointment with your doctor to discuss antibiotic treatments to stop the infection. Never, ever put you r period c up in the dishwasher! Douching can lead to vaginal infections. Dont wear tight pants or tight underwear. There are 11 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page. % of people told us that this article helped them. Bathe regularly to prevent future odors of this type. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Some sexually transmitted infections (STIs) can cause brown discharge or spotting outside of your period. Take a bath or shower, even if you've already bathed that day. Instead of using perfume to mask the smell (guilty), Streicher tells her patients to try .css-7qz8rz{-webkit-text-decoration:underline;text-decoration:underline;text-decoration-thickness:0.0625rem;text-decoration-color:#f7623b;text-underline-offset:0.25rem;color:inherit;-webkit-transition:background 0.4s;transition:background 0.4s;background:linear-gradient(#ffffff, #ffffff 50%, #feebe7 50%, #feebe7);-webkit-background-size:100% 200%;background-size:100% 200%;}.css-7qz8rz:hover{color:#000000;text-decoration-color:border-link-body-hover;-webkit-background-position:100% 100%;background-position:100% 100%;}RepHresh's Odor Eliminating Gel after their period, which helps the good bacteria flourish. pH balance pills and probiotics may help balance your vagina's natural pH level. Wash thoroughly to remove any fluid. PCOS and perimenopause are common causes. Brown discharge can replace a period or come after a missed period during early pregnancy. If you experience frequent infections, you might want to talk to your doctor about probiotics or other options., Douching refers to washing out the vagina with water or other fluids. This can be as simple as making sure you change tampons, liners, or pads every few hours. Urine . Committee on Adolescent Health Care, The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. Heavy flows and cramps can be a common experience during your periods. If you wear tampons and notice a strong odor, you may wish to check for a retained tampon. 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. What Causes Yellow Discharge Before Your Period? Period blood usually has some odor, but if you notice brown discharge with a strong odor, an STI is the most likely cause. DOI: What can cause brown discharge after a period? 4 Upvotes In such cases, the odors are accompanied by other symptoms, such as vaginal discharge or pelvic pain thats not related to normal menstruation. Again, never leave a tampon in for more than eight hours, even for overnight wear, and never wear a tampon that is a higher absorbency than you need to reduce your risk of TSS. "I can say that wikiHow is very easy to work with and absolutely helpful. Pro tip: You can also use a toothpick soaked in rubbing alcohol to clean out your menstrual cup holes. Change sanitary pads and tampons frequently. Psych Experts Explain, Here's How Jenna Dewan Eats In A Day & Works Out, 13 Best Breathable Pairs Of Underwear, Per Ob-Gyns, 'My RA Symptoms May Have Been Caused By BII'. While the scientific evidence is still sketchy, there is some suggestion that certain oral probiotics can protect against bacterial vaginosis. A Jill-of-all-trades, Lillian Downey is a certified Responsible Sexuality Educator, certified clinical phlebotomist and a certified non-profit administrator. The user removes the cup every four to 12 hours, pours the collected blood into the toilet or sink, and washes the cup before reinserting. I have vaginal odor, I have been to the doctor to get it. Moreover, if this smelly discharge is associated with a sensation of burning in the vagina, then it could be due to Chlamydia infection. The smell. Yoghurt will help in restoring the pH of the vagina, reducing the vaginal discharge after period and preventing its recurrence. 2023 Healthline Media LLC. While some odors are completely normal when you have your period, others may be a sign that you need to see your doctor. This article was co-authored by Carrie Noriega, MD. 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.. However, menstrual odor can be an especially annoying, as well as potentially embarrassing, issue for lots of people. You may notice your period blood becomes darker or brown near the end of your period. This article has been viewed 533,314 times. Others have brown discharge that comes and goes for a week or two. On light days, don't go more than three to four hours without changing it during the day. I can always depend on it when I need, "Learning how to prepare for your first period was helpful. Garlic: Garlic has natural antibiotic properties and it kills bacteria and reduces odors. Hence, visiting a gynecologist and getting treatment at the earliest is recommended. Deodorizing products, such as wipes and sprays, arent recommended because of the possibility of irritation. Change the menstrual cup every twelve hours or when you experience leakage. Purchase breathable cotton underwear here. You might be able to control such odors by changing pads and tampons frequently, especially during heavy-flow days. 10K followers View more on Instagram 95 likes Add a comment. % of people told us that this article helped them. Your doctor can also identify or rule out more serious conditions, such as pelvic inflammatory disease. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. While most odors are healthy, some may be signs of an infection. Cotton is a natural fiber that allows air to circulate properly, which can help prevent sweating and smells. Read on to learn about proper hygiene during your period to avoid feeling self-conscious. When could brown discharge be the sign of a problem? There could be something else going on. This can be especially problematic if you tend to wear disposable pads, which trap bacteria, blood, and sweat between the layers of plastic. Use a mild soap or body wash on your whole body, including your vulva, and rinse well. Your first period can start at any time but might be accompanied by sore breasts, mood swings, or pain in your lower abdominal muscles called cramps. Feb 8, 2017. Vaginal discharge can be a normal and healthy occurrence. Also, remember to wear clean clothes and underwear to avoid body odors building up. A menstrual period consists of the shedding of an unfertilized egg, blood, and uterine lining tissues. Trichomoniasis is an amoebic infection that is potentially harmless. The 10 Best Cooling Weighted Blankets, FTW! Look for cleansing products that have a similar PH balance. ". Another reason for smelly discharge after period could be a forgotten tampon. The procedure should be repeated at least 2 times a week to restore the pH of the vagina and reduce any discharge and odors. If you are really worried, or have been experiencing PMS, bring pads or tampons and extra underwear to school. Change your underwear if they become damp with sweat or fluid, or at least once a day. If you have tried all of the things in this article for your vaginal odor, then you might want to consider seeing a doctor to be checked for an infection. I have been having a smelly vaginal discharge for the past 4 months after my periods. This website helped me numerous, "This has helped me a lot! Often, a vaginal odor that requires a doctors visit will be accompanied by other vaginal symptoms. To prevent spreading of bowel bacteria it is recommended to wipe from front to back. Sometimes there aren't enough showers or fresh undies in the world to fix that post-period funk. As a result, smegma that is thick, whitish, and has a strong odor can build up underneath the . Debra Rose Wilson, Ph.D., MSN, R.N., IBCLC, AHN-BC, CHT. Menstrual odor is usually mild and not detectable by those around you. (2017). Debra Rose Wilson, Ph.D., MSN, R.N., IBCLC, AHN-BC, CHT. Healthline has strict sourcing guidelines and relies on peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions, and medical associations. These are most likely caused by not practicing good hygiene during the menstrual cycle. The more blood that collects in one place and comes into contact with air, the stronger your odor will be. Most people begin their period around age 12. For instance wearing gauchos, skirts, or loose shorts or pants, instead of tight-fitting jeans or pants, can make your genital area more airy. Some women experience brown discharge for a day or two after their period ends. For more information about your period from our gynecologist co-author like recognizing your bodys signals, scroll down. ", How to Stay Clean and Smelling Fresh on Your Period, http://www.healthywomen.org/content/article/tampons-pads-or-menstrual-cups-whats-right-you, http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/toxic-shock-syndrome/basics/definition/con-20021326, http://womenshealth.gov/publications/our-publications/fact-sheet/douching.html, http://www.cosmopolitan.com/health-fitness/a39728/13-times-you-should-never-wear-a-thong/, http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/bacterial-vaginosis/basics/tests-diagnosis/con-20035345, http://www.obgyn.net/sexual-health/first-menstruation-average-age-and-physical-signs, http://www.emedicinehealth.com/menopause/article_em.htm, Whrend deiner Periode sauber bleiben und gut riechen, rester propre et sentir bon pendant ses rgles, Menjaga Kebersihan dan Aroma Segar Tubuh Saat Datang Bulan, Je fris blijven voelen als je ongesteld bent, , Never wear a tampon longer than eight hours or wear one that is more absorbent than you need, as this can lead to a rare but serious condition called. Thanks to all authors for creating a page that has been read 533,314 times. However, according to some physicians, the infection could spread up to the fallopian tubes. Eating too much sugar can also lead to an overproduction of yeast. Some factors that temporarily change vaginal odor include: In addition to the impact that the menstrual cycle itself has on smell, vaginal odor can vary throughout the period of menstruation. The doctor just told me to eat yogurt and wash with read more. Some vaginal odor is normal and to be expected. You can place a clove of garlic into your vagina for around 2 hours. Also see a doctor if you think you might be pregnant or have other concerning symptoms, such as: If you dont already have an OBGYN, you can browse doctors in your area through the Healthline FindCare tool. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/5\/56\/Cope-With-Your-Period-on-Vacation-Step-1-Version-2.jpg\/v4-460px-Cope-With-Your-Period-on-Vacation-Step-1-Version-2.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/5\/56\/Cope-With-Your-Period-on-Vacation-Step-1-Version-2.jpg\/aid1864780-v4-728px-Cope-With-Your-Period-on-Vacation-Step-1-Version-2.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"