Vaginal odor: causes, treatment and how to relieve it

There is no doubt that many women face an issue that is certainly uncomfortable when faced with it, especially when they talk about it among acquaintances (for example, family members or friends), or when they feel affected in a certain sense. The bad vaginal smell can be unpleasant for many, especially if you do not know the Causes that can cause its appearance, even more so if we take into account that in many cases the most usual thing is that it is disregarded because of shame.

First of all we must bear in mind that the vagina always has a smell, which is characteristic but not at all tends to be unpleasant. Moreover, depending on the time of the month in which the woman is, the vaginal smell tends to vary. For example, it may have a smell-like aroma that causes the dairy acid in yogurt. This is a completely normal aroma or smell, and is due to the different lactobacilli that protect the bacterial flora from infections.

Of course, throughout the menstrual cycle the vaginal smell tends to change, so that sometimes it is perceived with a greater intensity. However, when this aroma tends to be stronger it is an indication that something is not very good.

Causes of bad vaginal odor

Once we have in mind that it is absolutely normal for the vagina to have a characteristic smell or aroma, when this smell changes and becomes a much more intense aroma it can indicate the existence of some problem. For this reason it is completely normal that when an unpleasant odor appears in the intimate area, it is advisable to go to the gynecologist.

In many cases the cause of bad vaginal odor is found mainly in two: to maintain an incorrect intimate hygiene (by excess or by defect of cleaning), or by a infection, which is medically known by the name of bacterial vaginosis and causes a change in the vaginal flora.

There are also other related causes, such as: wearing very tight clothes, wet clothes (something very common for example in summer), sexually transmitted diseases such as trichomoniasis (causes irritation and a vaginal odor both intense and unpleasant), or the very semen of the man that can get to alter the intimate pH.

Treatment of vaginal malodor

The key to treatment is to discover what causes the appearance of the bad vaginal odor. Thus, for example, if it is an infection, the gynecologist will prescribe antibiotics such as metronidazole, which tends to be effective and helps the symptoms disappear after 7 days of treatment, as long as there is no type of complication.

In case the bad smell is due to an excess of cleanliness or consequently to a defect of the same one, it is very important to correct it to maintain a suitable intimate hygiene. Excess hygiene is bad, since it tends to leave the vagina unprotected against bacteria. In fact, douching is unnecessary, since the vagina has its own hygienic system. It is always advisable to use a specific intimate soap for the intimate area, and only use water.

In case the cause is due to wear wet clothes, such as the pool swimsuit, it is important to always wear a garment that serves as a mute once you are completely dry.

How to relieve vaginal malodor

It is very important maintain an adequate intimate hygiene, always using some soap specially designed for this area, so that it is characterized by being soft and specific for sensitive areas. It is not advisable to use soaps with many chemicals, aromas or fragrances.

On the other hand, douching is not recommended, since they tend to alter the balance of the different bacteria that live in the vagina and that make up the vaginal flora.

There are also some Natural medicine that can be of great help when it comes to relieving vaginal malodor:

  • Garlic suppositories: it may surprise you, but despite being a food with a great aroma and an intense flavor, it stands out for its antibiotic and bactericidal qualities. You can make a vaginal suppository by wrapping a clove of garlic in a gauze and tie a thread in such a way that you can remove it if problems.
  • Yogurt: consuming a yogurt a day helps to reduce vaginal odors, especially if it is a probiotic yogurt with lactobacilli. On the other hand you can submerge a compress in the natural yoghurt and apply it gently brushing the vagina gently. Let it act for a few minutes, and then wash it with water and dry it well. You can repeat it three or four times a day.
  • Apple cider vinegar: it is a useful remedy in the treatment of different vaginal infections, helping to balance the pH levels and being an excellent anti-microbial and anti-fungus. You can fill your tub with lukewarm water and add 4 cups of apple cider vinegar. Then sit down and relax for 20 minutes.
This article is published for informational purposes only. It can not and should not replace the consultation with a Physician. We advise you to consult your Trusted Doctor.

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