Menopause and fishy odour: what to know

Changes in vaginal moisture and acidity around menopause can alter the local environment. A noticeable fishy smell may also occur with an imbalance of vaginal bacteria, an infection, retained menstrual material, or another vaginal or cervical problem. Menopause itself does not explain every new odour.

Pay attention to the pattern: note whether the smell follows sex or a period, and whether discharge is thin, grey, yellow, or green. Itching, burning when passing urine, pelvic discomfort, or soreness adds useful information for a clinician. Vaginal dryness can cause irritation, but dryness alone does not account for every strong odour.

Wash the outer vulval skin gently with lukewarm water and avoid douching, scented washes, deodorant sprays, and fragranced pads. These products can disturb the vaginal environment or hide useful symptoms. Wear breathable underwear, change out of damp clothing, and avoid inserting home remedies or leftover medication.

Arrange an appointment with a GP or gynaecology clinician if the odour continues, returns, or is accompanied by discharge. They may ask about symptoms and examine or test a sample before recommending treatment.

Seek prompt medical care for fever, worsening pelvic pain, vomiting, feeling faint, or a rapidly worsening smell with heavy or unusual bleeding. Any vaginal bleeding after menopause should be checked, even when the amount is small. Urgent assessment is also appropriate if you feel acutely unwell.

Ask what could be causing the odour, whether an examination or swab is needed, and which treatments are suitable after menopause. You can also ask how to manage dryness safely if it is causing soreness, and which warning signs should bring you back sooner.