How to Get Rid of Bad Vaginal Odour

The vagina has a natural scent, and it can change around periods, after sex, or with sweating. A distinctly fishy or unpleasant smell may accompany a change in discharge caused by an imbalance or infection. Odour does not reveal the diagnosis on its own. It matters whether you also have grey, yellow, or green discharge, itching, soreness, pelvic pain, urinary burning, or bleeding.

Rinse the external vulva with lukewarm water and dry it gently. If you use cleanser, choose a mild unscented product and keep it outside the vagina. Change damp underwear or swimwear, avoid tight clothing when irritated, and stop fragranced sprays, wipes, pads, bubble baths, and vaginal deodorants. Do not try to cover the smell with antiseptics or leftover antibiotics. If an infection is found, use the treatment prescribed for that cause and complete it as directed.

Arrange an appointment when bad odour persists, recurs, or comes with unusual discharge, itching, burning, pain during sex, or pain low in the abdomen. Seek prompt medical help for fever, worsening pelvic pain, unexpected bleeding, pregnancy with concerning symptoms, or feeling very unwell. Pelvic infection may need clinician-prescribed antibiotics, and delaying assessment can allow symptoms to worsen.

Note when the smell started, its character, discharge changes, period timing, recent sex, new products, and any chance that a tampon was left in place. Ask whether you need an examination or swab, what treatments are appropriate, and whether a partner needs assessment.