Why does bacterial vaginosis cause vaginal odour?

Vaginal Odour is a very common presentation of Bacterial Vaginosis. The vagina contains a changing community of bacteria. When its balance shifts, bacterial activity can produce compounds with a stronger, often fishy smell. The odour may become more noticeable after sex or during a period because changes in vaginal fluid can make it easier to detect.

Odour has other possible explanations, including a retained tampon, sweating, irritation, or an infection that needs different treatment. Smell alone cannot diagnose bacterial vaginosis.

Arrange an assessment if the smell is new, persistent, or accompanied by discharge, itching, burning, or pain. Avoid douching, scented wipes, deodorants, and perfumed soaps inside or around the vagina; they can upset the local environment and irritate skin. Wash the outside gently and change out of damp clothing.

A clinician may recommend treatment after examining you or testing a sample. Follow the prescribed course and seek review if the odour returns.

Seek prompt care for odour with pelvic pain, fever, pain during sex, bleeding between periods, sores, or pain when passing urine. Get advice promptly if you might have a retained tampon or have had possible sexually transmitted infection exposure.

Could the odour be bacterial vaginosis or another condition? Do I need an examination or sample? What products should I avoid, and what should I do if the smell returns after treatment?