Some of the possible causes of vaginal odor include:
1. Bacterial Vaginosis
Bacterial vaginosis or an overgrowth of normally occurring vaginal bacteria is the most common cause of vaginal odor. It’s very common and affects around 30% of women who are in their reproductive years. Bacterial vaginosis has been linked to miscarriage, preterm birth, as well as the increased risk of acquiring other sexually transmitted infections. A “fishy” odor is one of the most prominent indicators of bacterial vaginosis. Although the exact causes of this condition are still unknown, studies link it to certain activities, such as unprotected sexual intercourse or frequent douching.
2. Trichomoniasis
Trichomoniasis is a sexually transmitted infection that also accounts for vaginal odor. Actually, it’s the most common non-viral STD in the world. It’s caused by a parasite and leads to a foul-smelling vaginal discharge, genital itching and painful urination. Trichomoniasis is also found in men, but they typically have no symptoms.
Trichomoniasis can put pregnant women at a higher risk of premature delivery.
3. Hormonal Changes
Vaginal secretions during menstruation and between ovulation and your next period may have a more unpleasant odor than during other parts of the cycle, according to the University of California at Berkeley. Menopause can also be a risk factor for vaginal odor because of reduced estrogen levels, which cause the vaginal tissue to thin and become less acidic.
4. Poor Hygiene and Sweating
As mentioned above, sweating is commonly linked to vaginal odor. The reason for this is because the external genitals have special glands called apocrine sweat glands, which are also found in the armpits, nipples, ear canals, eyelids and wings of your nostrils. These glands secrete an oily fluid that’s metabolized by bacteria on your skin, thus producing a noticeable smell.
Wearing tight clothing or being overweight can only worsen the problem by trapping sweat and bacteria on the skin or in skin folds.
5. Retained or Forgotten Tampon
This is more or less poor hygiene and as unbelievable as it may sound, this problem is more common that you think. Regular and proper hygiene, especially throughout the period is essential for preventing the buildup of menstrual blood and bacteria that can lead to irritation, itching and a strong, unpleasant-smelling discharge.
6. Was It Something I Ate?
It’s true that some foods can lead to vaginal odor and these include pepper, garlic, onion, blue cheese, cabbage, asparagus, fish and broccoli tend to have the most impact. You can easily control this by cutting out these foods from your diet.
Vaginal Odor Risks
Take caution when using any essential oils or other of the recommended methods for the first time, especially if you’re pregnant, breast-feeding or taking medications.
Very rarely, abnormal vaginal odor can be the result of rectovaginal fistula – an abnormal opening between the rectum and vagina that may allow feces to leak into the vagina. If you suspect having rectovaginal fistula, cervical cancer or vaginal cancer, seek medical attention immediately. Have also in mind that vaginal odor can also indicate cervical or vaginal cancer.
Via beextrahealthynow.net
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