For anyone with a vulva, the thought of someone going down on you can be a major turn-on. But with all the taboo surrounding women’s pleasure and the notorious orgasm gap, it was about time we started having real conversations about men reciprocating in the bedroom. However, the road to pleasure isn't always that straightforward. With all the insecurities we already have about our bodies, there's one more that’s causing some serious anxiety—vaginal odor. And let’s be real, it’s making some men hesitant to dive in.

This doesn’t just make women uncomfortable—it robs them of the full pleasure experience. After all, we know not every woman gets off from penetration alone.

What's That Smell?

First things first: Vaginas have a natural scent. Just like your signature perfume, your vagina has its own unique aroma that changes throughout the month, thanks to your hormones. But when that scent goes from "natural musk" to "something fishy," it might be a sign that things are a bit out of whack. Whether it's strong, sour, or just plain funky, a noticeable change in odor could mean your vagina’s pH balance is off, or you’ve got an infection knocking at the door. 

A study of 90 samples of vaginal secretions from 10 women revealed that at any given sample time the vaginal odor of each individual woman was composed of different separate odorous effluents-as much as almost 21,000 odoriferous effluents.

Did you know that your vaginal odor isn't the same all month? During the preovulatory and ovulatory phases, things smell a bit fresher compared to the menstrual and luteal phases. But here's the kicker—there's a lot of variation, not just from person to person but even from cycle to cycle. So, your body’s scent is on its own little rollercoaster ride each month.

Why Does Vaginal odor Happen?

As much as the female hygiene industry wants you to believe that your vagina should smell all rosy and sweet—and then tries to sell you products to make it smell flowery—it’s all just BS. The truth is, healthy vaginas are supposed to smell like, well, a part of the human body. And guess what? They can all smell slightly different from person to person. It’s natural if yours has a mild scent. But truth be told, if yours has a slightly foul or fishy smell, you might want to be reassured.

Now there are plenty of reasons your downstairs mix could be giving off an unexpected scent, and most of them are fixable. The usual suspects?

Bacterial Vaginosis (BV): This is the most common cause, and it’s basically when the good and bad bacteria in your vagina get into a fight, leaving you with a strong, fishy odor as a parting gift. It’s caused by a change in the natural balance of bacteria in your vagina. This can happen if you wash using heavily scented soap, which can mess with the natural pH balance.

STIs: Some sexually transmitted infections (STIs), like trichomoniasis, can bring along some pretty unpleasant odors. It’s one of those not-so-fun surprises that can come with an infection. If you notice a sudden, strong smell along with other symptoms like itching or unusual discharge, it’s a good idea to get checked out by a doctor. STIs can mess with your vaginal health, and the sooner you catch them, the better.

Poor Hygiene: Let’s be honest—skipping showers or wearing the same underwear for two days in a row can lead to some not-so-fresh situations. Your vagina needs a little TLC, which means regular cleaning with warm water and a mild, unscented soap. And changing into fresh underwear daily? Non-negotiable. Poor hygiene can trap bacteria and sweat, leading to odors that no one wants to deal with.

Diet and Hydration: What you put into your body has a direct impact on what comes out, including how you smell down there. Drinking plenty of water helps keep your body hydrated and can dilute any odors. Eating a balanced diet that includes plenty of fruits, vegetables, and probiotics can also make a big difference in maintaining a healthy, balanced vaginal environment. 

Home remedies that actually work

No need to panic or go overboard with perfumes and sprays. You must be wondering - damn, how to get rid of vaginal odor? Dealing with vaginal odor is something most women experience at some point, but knowing how to get rid of vaginal odor at home can make a world of difference. Here’s how you can tackle that odor naturally, and how to use home remedies for vaginal odor.

First off, keep it clean. Using warm water and a mild, unscented soap to wash your vulva is all you really need. Forget about douching—despite what some might say, it only messes with your natural balance and can lead to more problems than it solves. Your body is pretty good at keeping things in check on its own.

Next, let it breathe. Wearing cotton underwear is like giving your vagina a breath of fresh air. Tight, synthetic fabrics can trap moisture, which is exactly what you don’t want, as it creates the perfect environment for bacteria to thrive. So, keep things light and airy down there.

Staying hydrated is another simple yet home remedy for vaginal odor. Drinking plenty of water helps your body, including your vagina, stay in balance. Plus, it dilutes your urine, which could be contributing to any lingering vaginal odors. It’s a win-win for your overall health and your vaginal health.

But let’s be real—if you’ve tried all the right things and the smell still sticks around, it’s time to see a doctor. And if you’re also dealing with other symptoms like itching, burning, or unusual discharge, don’t wait. Persistent odor could be a sign of something more serious, like bacterial vaginosis, an STI, or another condition that needs medical attention.

So, what happens when the doctor confirms it’s more than just a sweaty day? Depending on the cause, they might prescribe antibiotics to knock out bacterial vaginosis or trichomoniasis, antiparasitics if a parasite is the culprit (we’re looking at you, trichomoniasis), or hormone therapy for those experiencing post-menopausal changes in their vaginal flora.

Vaginal odor treatments to seek

Now, let’s talk about prevention. You don’t have to wait until something smells funky to start taking care of your vaginal health. Practising good hygiene by washing daily, especially after sex and workouts, is a solid first step. Safe sex is also key—not only do condoms protect against STIs, but they also help keep things balanced down there. 

When it comes to the vaginal odor treatment, it largely depends on the underlying cause. For bacterial infections like Bacterial Vaginosis, antibiotics such as metronidazole or clindamycin are commonly prescribed, either orally or as topical creams or gels, based on the severity of the infection. Yeast infections, on the other hand, are treated with antifungal medications, which can come in the form of creams, ointments, tablets, or suppositories. While over-the-counter options are available, it’s important to get a proper diagnosis from a doctor to ensure you’re using the right vaginal odor treatment.

Regardless of the type of infection, it’s essential to complete the full course of any prescribed treatment, even if your symptoms improve or disappear before finishing the medication. Skipping doses or not completing the vaginal odor treatment can lead to the infection coming back. Follow-up appointments may be necessary to confirm that the infection has been fully cleared.

Eating a diet rich in probiotics can do wonders for maintaining healthy vaginal flora, and avoiding scented products like tampons, pads, and soaps will prevent your pH from being thrown off.

So, the next time you notice a bit of an odor, don’t freak out—just check in with your body, make a few adjustments, and, if needed, get some help from a healthcare provider. Your vagina deserves the best, after all. And while you're at it, explore our range of products like sex toys, vibrators, and lube to enhance your pleasure and keep things exciting in the bedroom. Our products are designed with your comfort and satisfaction in mind, helping you feel confident and in control.

Also, check out our blogs on premature ejaculation and White Discharge Before Your Period to improve your knowledge on sexual health

FAQs On Vaginal Odor

Are there any specific foods that can help reduce vaginal odor?  

Absolutely! Foods rich in probiotics like yogurt and fermented veggies keep your vaginal flora happy and your odor in check.

When should I see a doctor for vaginal odor?  

If the smell is strong, sticks around, or comes with itching or funky discharge, it’s time to get it checked out by a doc. 

Can vaginal odor be a sign of an STI?  

Yup, certain STIs can cause some unpleasant smells, so if things smell off, it’s best to get tested and treated ASAP.

Is it normal to have some vaginal odor?  

Totally! A mild, natural scent is completely normal—your vagina isn’t supposed to smell like a bouquet. Now how to get rid of that vaginal odor - is something we have already explored above.

Can hormonal changes affect vaginal odour?  

Yes, hormones can cause shifts in your vaginal scent, especially during your period or menopause. It’s all part of the cycle!

- - - - - - - - - - - - -

About the Author

Disha (she/her) believes she's half therapist because people spill their guts to her with ease. But for now, she's writing sassy pieces on the internet about all things fun and pop culture. With a flair for wit and a curious spirit, she is all about digging into the saucy details of human intimacy.