Understanding Vaginal Odors: What They Reveal About Your Health

Understanding Vaginal Odors: What They Reveal About Your Health

Naomi Moore Naomi Moore
2 minute read

Listen to article
Audio generated by DropInBlog's Blog Voice AI™ may have slight pronunciation nuances. Learn more

Tangy Vaginal Odor

A healthy vagina naturally produces an odor. This odor comes from lactic acid produced by lactobacillus bacteria, which helps maintain your vaginal microbiome. This is a clear sign that your body’s natural cleaning system is working well.

The odor is often described as tangy, fermented, or vinegary. It indicates that your vaginal health is in good shape.

Fishy Vaginal Odor

A strong fishy smell is usually a sign of a vaginal infection. One of the most common causes of this odor is bacterial vaginosis (BV), which should not be ignored and requires treatment.

How This Infection Happens:

BV occurs when your vaginal pH is imbalanced, which affects the good bacteria. As the healthy bacteria die off, bad bacteria multiply, leading to bacterial vaginosis. Along with the odor, BV can cause a thick yellowish or orange discharge, itching, irritation, and burning during urination.

Trichomoniasis, a curable infection, can also cause a fishy odor. Many women with this infection may not show symptoms.

Coppery Odor

A metallic or coppery odor is often due to menstrual blood. Blood contains iron, and when it interacts with the lactic acid in your vagina, it creates this metallic smell.

Sometimes, light bleeding after sex can also cause this odor, especially if there are small tears in the vaginal lining from dryness or vigorous activity.

Sweet Vaginal Odor

A sweet vaginal smell might suggest an overgrowth of yeast, particularly Candida albicans, which leads to a yeast infection. The scent can be reminiscent of honey, freshly baked bread, or biscuits.

Yeast infections often come with itching, irritation, and a thick, curd-like discharge.

Having Any of These Odors?

If you're noticing any of these odors or just want to smell fresher, check out our blog post on 13 tips for a fresher smell downstairs.

Looking for a permanent solution that works fast? Try our vegan vaginal suppositories and see the magic for yourself!

« Back to Blog