How to stop vaginal odour

A healthy vagina can have a mild natural scent that changes during the menstrual cycle, after sex, or with sweating. A strong fishy or unpleasant smell may occur with bacterial vaginosis or another vaginal infection. Yellow or green discharge, soreness, burning, or pelvic pain can point to an infection that needs testing. Odour alone cannot tell which condition is present.

Wash the outside of the vulva with lukewarm water and, if needed, a mild unscented cleanser. Keep the area dry, change out of damp clothing, and choose breathable underwear. Do not douche or use scented sprays, wipes, deodorants, or perfumed products inside the vagina. Avoid self-treating with leftover antibiotics; the right treatment depends on the diagnosis and may require a swab or urine test.

Book a prompt appointment for persistent odour, unusual discharge, itching, pain during urination or sex, or a new sexual-partner exposure. Seek urgent care for fever, worsening lower-abdominal pain, vomiting, faintness, or feeling acutely unwell, because pelvic infection can need prompt treatment.

Could this be a vaginal or sexually transmitted infection? Do I need a swab or urine test? Should my partner be tested, and which treatment is appropriate for the result?