How to improve vaginal odour

A mild natural scent can change with sweat, menstruation, sex or normal vaginal fluid. A new fishy or unpleasant smell may occur with bacterial imbalance or another infection, especially when discharge changes colour or texture. Odour alone cannot identify the cause, and inserting products to cover it can irritate the vulva or delay diagnosis.

Clean only the external vulva with warm water and a mild unscented cleanser if needed, then pat dry. Wear breathable underwear, change out of damp clothing and avoid vaginal douching, deodorant sprays, perfumed pads and fragranced washes. Do not use leftover antibiotics or borrowed treatment. A clinician can test the discharge and choose treatment matched to the cause.

Book a clinical review for persistent or recurrent odour, unusual discharge, itching, burning, pain during sex or pain when passing urine. Seek prompt care for pelvic pain, fever, vomiting, bleeding unrelated to your period, or feeling very unwell. These symptoms can occur with pelvic infection, which may need prescription treatment.

Ask whether you need a vaginal swab, urine test or sexual-health testing, and which products should be stopped. Tell the clinician about pregnancy, recent antibiotics, new partners and any treatment already tried.