Wash using mild soap and warm water: Dont frequently douche. There are 11 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page. The brown color is the result of oxidation, which is a normal process. You can place a clove of garlic into your vagina for around 2 hours. Antibiotics should not cause you to get an odor during your period. They sell it in small soap shaped pieces (though I just use my sink), was thinking maybe something like that could fit in your . It results from the overgrowth of normal vaginal bacteria. Use a mild soap or body wash on your whole body, including your vulva, and rinse well. Read on to learn about proper hygiene during your period to avoid feeling self-conscious. Typically, you should seek medical attention for vaginal odor if it is fishy or different from normal. To reduce odor during your period and maintain the balance of bacteria in the vagina, it's important to avoid douching. By using our site, you agree to our. Bacterial vaginosis is treated with antibiotics. If the smell is very strong, fishy, foul, or is otherwise abnormal for you, and you have been washing daily, there is probably an underlying cause. Wear cotton underwear. (2015). Because they are worn internally, they can help reduce the smell of menstrual blood during your period. Just when you think your period is done, you wipe and find brown discharge. Our team thoroughly researches and evaluates the recommendations we make on our site. ", "It helped me a lot I now know how to keep myself fresh and comfortable even if I'm on my periods.". This will help vagina breathe easily. Wear Loose-Fitting Bottoms and Cotton Underwear. Deodorants work by masking body odor with a more pleasant-smelling fragrance. Wipe thoroughly or soak your menstrual cup for an hour in a water and clear vinegar mixture (50-50 is a good ratio). It doesn't smell the greatest, and it's stressing me out. Maintain personal hygiene by bathing regularly and trimming pubic hairs. To minimize it, I bathed regularly, used warm water and mild soap to wash the vaginal area. Lifestyle factors. Everything You Should Know About pH Balance Pills and the Best Options to Take, What to Expect During Labiaplasty Recovery, Replens Review: Why Users Love These Vaginal Moisturizers and Lubes. Stainless steel soap or even just rubbing your hands on stainless steel can help a lot, I've found. A normal vaginal pH level is between 3.8 and 4.5, which is moderately acidic. Chose an unflavored and organic product, which is a rich source of lactobacillus. You might want to consider seeing a doctor to get checked for a vaginal infection, especially if the odor persists after your period ends. Some of these are: Apple cider vinegar: Apple cider vinegar works by restoring the acidic nature of the flora present in the vagina. I have been having a smelly vaginal discharge for the past 4 months after my periods. See additional information. 1,591 satisfied customers. Moreover, if you already have an infection, douching can push bacteria into the uterus, fallopian tubes, or ovaries.. The smell is usually caused by old blood, which has a bad, zoo-like scent when it oxidizes, Dr. Shepherd says. 6. Often, drinking more water will clear the odor. A period that lasts one or two days could be a sign of pregnancy, but there are many other reasons for a one- or two-day period. It really just depends on how well your uterus sheds its lining and the speed at which it exits your body. Here's what the different period blood colors mean and when to see your doctor. Hearst Magazine Media, Inc. All Rights Reserved. It can also change the pH of your vagina , allowing it to become a breeding ground for different bacteria or an infection. If your diet contains any of these or other pungent foods, consider eliminating the food to see if the smell improves. Board Certified Obstetrician & Gynecologist. Sometimes the bleeding and cramps caused by miscarriage are mistaken for a period. STD Facts - Bacterial Vaginosis. Avoid fragrances or harsh soaps, as these can irritate the vagina. Sanitary napkins frequently present a more noticeable smell. It is so nice to have someone/thing to. Last Updated: February 17, 2022 Higher levels of male hormones cause irregular periods and sometimes no period at all. Yeast infection. So, what's a girl to do? You will need to see your doctor for a prescription to treat BV. This will also aid in maintaining the pH balance of your vagina, resulting in no period blood odour. Brown discharge can be a sign of a problem when its accompanied by other symptoms, such as pain, itching, and a strong odor. Pelvic inflammatory disease. BV causes a grayish-colored discharge and is accompanied by pain, redness, and itching. It is a 6-day treatment so plan on using it well before or after your period. Smelly greenish discharge: If you have strong smelly greenish discharge after periods then it is possible that you are suffering from trichomoniasis caused by infection with Trichomonas vaginalis. This occurs when the natural balance of bacteria in the vagina is altered by the hormonal changes, leading to multiplication of the fungi. Not only are these fermented foods and drinks good for your gut, but they can also help maintain your vagina's pH balance. She's also written extensively on gardening and cooking. They may even have a slight metallic smell from iron and bacteria. Get tested for vaginal infections if your odor persists or is very strong. Often, a vaginal odor that requires a doctors visit will be accompanied by other vaginal symptoms. There really are not any other home remedies to try. 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. The market has, in turn, responded by developing menstrual products that focus on convenience. "Started my period yesterday and wasn't shocked as a few days before I'd got severe stomach cramps and I am 13. There could be something else going on. Pass urine after having sex as it removes bacteria from inside and outside the vaginal canal. Your vaginal discharge may smell slightly metallic like copper pennies when you're menstruating. Last Updated: June 12, 2021 Avoid scented products Blood has a normal, slightly metallic smell to it. Avoid using scented pads or tampons, which can irritate skin and sometimes lead to infection. I assume a similar tactic would work for period panties LanaLovesKitty 2 yr. ago Server responsed at: 04/18/2023 9:34 a.m. I had my first period a month ago and now I know how I can keep clean. A rotten smell can occur when a tampon is left in for too long or forgotten. Bathe regularly to prevent future odors of this type. While most odors are healthy, some may be signs of an infection. All of the test were negative. "Healthy" periods can have a slight smell of blood. 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. 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'. There are 8 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page. Occasionally, brown and bloody discharge could be a sign of a problem when its accompanied by other symptoms. You may also experience missed periods followed by brown discharge if youve recently started using a new hormonal birth control. "I can say that wikiHow is very easy to work with and absolutely helpful. 2. Don't be afraid to ask a friend for a tampon or pad if you need one. Wolf WM, et al. While the exact cause of this overgrowth isnt understood, bacterial vaginosis seems to be most common in women who are sexually active. In such cases it is recommended to get tested at the earliest because Chlamydia, if not treated early could result in infertility. If you buy through links on this page, we may earn a small commission Heres our process. Your doctor can also identify or rule out more serious conditions, such as pelvic inflammatory disease. Boil 1 liter of water and add the Stryphnodendron bark. Here are nine possible causes for yellow discharge before your period, plus signs that you should see a doctor. Healthline has strict sourcing guidelines and relies on peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions, and medical associations. But orange discharge may be a sign of a number of. Its normal for menstrual periods to have a slight odor. Blood that takes longer to exit your body becomes darker, often brown. A Jill-of-all-trades, Lillian Downey is a certified Responsible Sexuality Educator, certified clinical phlebotomist and a certified non-profit administrator. 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. Use a menstrual cup instead of tampons; as your vagina changes pH during your period, the old pH discharge will be emptied out every time, rather than letting it sit against your vaginal walls soaked into a tampon. Overwhelmed by the ever-growing world of period underwear? She also authors blogs on nail art blog and women's self esteem. Take a bath or shower, even if you've already bathed that day. Replens vaginal moisturizers and lubes claim to help with symptoms of vaginal dryness but do these products actually work? Purchase breathable cotton underwear here. The vagina is intensely acidic, naturally killing bad bacteria. Apr 1, 2019. If you already notice a strong odor, try some of the following tips for good vaginal hygiene (and if that doesn't help, consult a doctor): Oh, the smell. 10 . Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a condition that affects a womans hormone levels. Some women report that their period smells like death, though this isnt necessarily a cause for concern. Sometimes there aren't enough showers or fresh undies in the world to fix that post-period funk. Perimenopause periods can be longer or shorter. I have vaginal odor, I have been to the doctor to get it. These are most likely caused by not practicing good hygiene during the menstrual cycle. WebMD does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. A slightly sweet or bittersweet smell, like molasses or gingerbread, may also be a sign that your pH levels have changed. 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. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2018). Trichomoniasis is an amoebic infection that is potentially harmless. Black, Brown, Bright Red, and More: What Does Each Period Blood Color Mean? Healthy periods can have a slight smell of blood. Often, vaginal odor doesnt come from the vagina at all. Thanks to all authors for creating a page that has been read 533,314 times. 2023 Healthline Media LLC. (2015). As a small thank you, wed like to offer you a $30 gift card (valid at GoNift.com). What Does It Mean If You Have Spotting Instead of Your Period? All rights reserved. Irregular menstrual bleeding and brown discharge as your body adjusts to the hormone are common side effects. Smelly, brown discharge: If you experience smelly, brown discharge after menses, then it is quite possible that it is caused by some bacteria. Higher levels of male hormones cause irregular periods and sometimes no period at all. Avoid scented tampons and other products, as these can cause irritation and allergic reactions. Pro tip: You can also use a toothpick soaked in rubbing alcohol to clean out your menstrual cup holes. See a doctor if your vagina itches along with having an odor. For instance wearing gauchos, skirts, or loose shorts or pants, instead of tight-fitting jeans or pants, can make your genital area more airy. The problem is, your vagina is not dirty. Are Kourt's Lemme Gummies Doing What They Claim? 2005 - 2023 WebMD LLC, an Internet Brands company. Debra Sullivan, Ph.D., MSN, R.N., CNE, COI. Healthline Media does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. (2017). 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. Some vaginal odor is normal and to be expected. 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. Menstrual odor is usually mild and not detectable by those around you. Urine . 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). Dr. Noriega is a Board Certified Obstetrician & Gynecologist and medical writer in Colorado. Changing your sanitary product often prevents this problem. Thongs and lace are not the best clothing choices for good feminine hygiene. Smelly discharge from vagina, especially after periods, is a problem that majority of the females have to face every month. Do All Periods Smell The Same Here's the deal: The vagina requires a low pH in order to be inhabited by healthy bacteria. Teens Health reports, "changing your pad every 3 to 4 hours (more if your period is heavy) is good hygiene and helps prevent bad odors." One of the silver linings of investing in a menstrual cup includes its volume capabilities. 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":"