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Vaginal odor is something we can feel uncomfortable talking about. But getting to know your body can help you identify what’s ‘normal’ for you, and when to get medical help. ‘The vagina has a natural bacterial flora that’s there to keep a good balance,’ explains Dr Rosén. It’s because of this natural bacteria that the cervical mucus in the vagina always has a smell. You may also experience changes throughout your menstrual cycle as the pH balance in your vagina changes. So, what does vaginal odor normally smell like? Dr Rosén says that it usually ranges from a slightly tangy or sour smell to a more metallic smell around or after your period. ‘Generally, if you’re feeling well and your vaginal odor or discharge isn’t unusual for you, there’s no reason to worry.’ Here are 8 common causes of vaginal odor and when to talk to a doctor: 1. Bacterial vaginosis (BV) Vaginal odor: fishy Bacterial vaginosis is one of the most common causes of a smelly vagina, affecting 15% to 50% of women of reproductive age. ‘It’s a condition where there’s an imbalance in the vaginal flora,’ Dr Rosén explains. ‘The first symptom is often a fishy smell, which can progress to a frothy, grey or green-ish discharge. You may also feel itchy and swollen.’ There are a number of different treatment options if the symptoms of BV don’t clear up on their own. ‘A doctor can prescribe you a course of antiseptics or antibiotics,’ says Dr Rosén. Unfortunately, recurrence is not unusual after antibiotic treatment. Some studies have proven that the use of probiotics could be helpful, and Dr Rosén suggests changing contraception, especially if you’re using the coil. She adds that your sexual partner may be the cause of your infection, so talking to them about their personal hygiene and using external or internal condoms for a while might be a good idea. If you find that this helps, your partner will likely need a course of antibiotics, too. ‘If you’re having these symptoms, you should see a doctor to rule out any underlying conditions that may need treatment,’ Dr Rosén says. ‘That’s especially important if you’re pregnant, as there’s an increased risk for premature labour.’ 2. Trichomoniasis Vaginal odor: pungent and fishy, similar to BV Trichomoniasis is the most common non-viral sexually transmitted infection (STI) in the world. ‘It’s a parasitic disease that typically doesn’t cause a lot of symptoms,’ says Dr Rosén. ‘Some people experience subtle symptoms like a yellowy-green vaginal discharge with an unpleasant smell, and the vulva can be a little red and itchy. A course of antibiotics usually clears it up.’ 3. Toxic shock syndrome (TSS) Vaginal odor: very unpleasant, but odor is generally a minor symptom Toxic shock syndrome has become a very rare illness – it was often caused by high-absorbency tampons. ‘If this bacteria enters your system, you get very sick very quickly. You’ll get a high fever, blood pressure changes and possibly a rash and diarrhea or vomiting, and you might feel faint,’ says Dr Rosén. ‘If you experience these symptoms, you should go straight to A&E. TSS cases are now very rare, though.’ 4. A tampon you’ve forgotten to remove Vaginal odor: very unpleasant ‘There have been instances of people seeking help for a bad vagina smell and finding it’s caused by a tampon that’s been left in for days, sometimes longer,’ says Dr Rosén. ‘If this happens, the smell will get worse quickly and be extremely obvious and offensive – so if you’re experiencing vaginal odor that escalates, it’s always best to check.’ 5. Vaginal thrush Vaginal odor: yeasty Vaginal yeast infections like thrush are very common and typically cause itching, burning and changes to vaginal discharge, which can become lumpy and white, similar to curdled milk. This discharge usually isn’t very smelly, though. ‘If your thrush symptoms are so pronounced that there’s a bad smell, you should see a doctor to rule out any underlying conditions,’ says Dr Rosén.