The vagina usually has a distinct smell, kind of like a cross between musky and slightly tangy. This is a typical and expected feature of a woman’s physique.
However, a 21-year-old confesses in an anonymous post that her vagina smells like garlic. The vagina does smell different, yes, but it most definitely doesn’t smell like garlic. In this article we’re going to look at causes of abnormal vagina odor.
When to Be Concerned About Vaginal Odor?
A fishy, strong, or unpleasant odor are all characteristics that a vagina should not have. If your vagina has any of these characteristics in addition to itching, burning sensation or unusual design, then you should be concerned. You need to see a doctor right away. Ignoring these signs could lead to more serious health issues.
Common Causes of Abnormal Vaginal Odor
Bacterial Vaginosis (BV): BV occurs when there is an imbalance in the normal bacteria found in the vagina. This simply means that the harmful bacteria outnumbered the normal and healthy bacteria in the vagina, leading to an imbalance.
Bacterial vaginosis causes the vagina to produce a fishy smell. However, it is not a sexually transmitted infection (STI), but sexual activities can influence bacteria balance.
Sexually transmitted infection: Trichomoniasis is a sexually transmitted infection that’s associated with abnormal vagina smell. It is a strong, unpleasant smell, and comes along with other symptoms like itching and unusual discharge.
Hygiene habits: Hygiene habits like washing the vagina with harsh soap can disrupt the natural flora. Also douching can disturb the balance of good bacteria in the vagina, leading to infections and unpleasant odors. Once there’s an overgrowth of harmful bacteria in the vagina, odor is produced.
Other potential causes: Wearing tight clothings especially ones made from silk, traps heat. This allows moisture and bacteria to build up and then lead to an unpleasant vagina odor. Also during menstruation, the mix of staled blood and the usual vagina smell, can result in a stronger odor.
Conclusion
The vagina usually has a distinct smell, kind of like a cross between musky and slightly tangy. This is a typical and expected feature of a woman’s physique. A fishy, strong, or unpleasant odor are all traits that a vagina should not have.
If your vagina has any of these characteristics, you should contact the doctor. An abnormal vagina smell can be caused by proper hygiene, bacteria vaginosis, or sexually transmitted infections.
