The vagina has a distinct smell which is not a problem, as everybody has their own particular vaginal smell that is natural. Whether this natural smell is neutral or not, it is a matter of personal judgment. In fact, some women notice their odor when there is no notable odor detected by others. However, if the odor changes and becomes strongly unpleasant, this change deserves attention because it is perhaps a sign of a serious vaginal infection. If left untreated, this condition may cause not only physiologic problems but also emotional stress which can make the person uncomfortable thinking the odor is detected by others.
Here are 9 reasons you should know cause smelly vagina so you can stop feeling self-conscious:
1. Excessive washing: Even if you’re just washing your vagina with warm water, excessive washing can still mess with the vagina’s flora, causing an odor.
2. Allergy to condoms: Some women are allergic to certain materials in condoms, which can throw off vaginal bacteria and cause odor.
3. Douching: This can mess with the pH levels of the vagina and even cause a large amount of bacteria to grow. There is good and bad bacteria that can be down there, but the bad bacteria can cause a strong smell.
4. Tight Clothing: Wearing very tight pants or underwear can cause your vagina to sweat, which can cause vaginal odor.
5. Spicy Food: Spicy food can cause a sudden increase in your vaginal discharge, which can cause vaginal odor.
6. Sleeping with underwear at night: According to reports, sleeping in the nude to air out the vagina is the best way to go
7. Laundry Detergent: Laundry detergent with perfume or fabric softeners can irritate the vagina, once again causing odor. Wash your underwear separately with unscented detergent.
8. Pregnancy: During pregnancy, many of vitamins and minerals are passed along to your baby, and this can throw off the pH levels in your vagina.
9. Sex: You may notice vaginal odors accumulating directly after sex.