What should you know about strong vaginal odor?

A mild scent can vary with menstruation, sweat, sex, or hormonal changes. A new strong, fishy, foul, or persistent smell is more useful when considered alongside other symptoms. Changes in discharge, itching, burning, pain with urination, pain during sex, or lower abdominal pain may point to an infection or inflammation. Chlamydia and gonorrhoea can sometimes have few symptoms, while pelvic inflammatory disease can cause pelvic pain and fever. Thrush more often causes itching and soreness than a strong odor. The smell itself cannot identify the cause.

Arrange a clinician review if the odor persists, returns, or is accompanied by discharge or irritation. Testing may involve questions, an examination, and a swab or urine sample. Wash the outside of the vulva gently with water or an unperfumed cleanser, keep the area dry, and avoid douching, scented washes, and deodorant products, which can worsen irritation. Do not start leftover antibiotics or antifungal medicine without advice because treatments differ by cause. Avoid sex or use barrier protection until you have guidance if an infection is possible.

Seek urgent medical care for strong odor with fever, worsening lower abdominal pain, vomiting, faintness, pain in pregnancy, or heavy bleeding. Prompt assessment is also needed for severe pain during sex or feeling acutely unwell. These symptoms can accompany pelvic infection and need timely treatment. Contact a sexual health service if a new partner or possible exposure makes an STI possible, even without dramatic symptoms.

Could the odor be linked to an infection or irritation? Do I need testing for chlamydia or gonorrhoea? Which products should I stop using? If treatment is needed, should a partner also be assessed?