Let’s be honest – vaginal odour can feel embarrassing, even though it’s incredibly common. Almost every woman experiences it at some point in her life, and while a mild scent is completely normal, a strong or unpleasant smell could be your body’s way of saying something’s off.
From diet and hygiene to infections and hormonal shifts, there are many reasons this can happen. The good news? Most causes are manageable, and you can take charge of your vaginal health naturally and confidently.
But let’s face it, talking about how to get rid of vaginal odour isn’t exactly considered an enthusiastic conversation. But it is something that we experience, whether we mention it or not. The truth is, vaginas have a natural smell. It’s musky, mild, and maybe even sweet, depending on your diet and fluctuating hormones. Mostly normal. But sometimes, things get…funky.
Over 85% of women with bacterial vaginosis don’t even know that they have it; the ones who do, often notice a strong, fishy smell and unusual discharge. And, with over a billion dollars being spent annually on conditions like BV, it’s clear this is more than a nuisance.
In this article, we’ll cover what causes vaginal odour, how to get rid of vaginal smell, and explore home remedies for vaginal smell that may help naturally.
What is vaginal odour?
Your natural vaginal odour is a complex, individual olfactory signature composed of many “mini odours.” Often sweet, tangy, or likened to fermented food.
This odour results from your vaginal flora, where various bacteria, especially Lactobacillus, maintain an acidic pH-helping prevent infections. Maintaining a healthy vaginal pH is key to effective vaginal odour treatment and long-term vaginal smell treatment.
However, the vaginal odour we’re discussing is strong, fishy, and unpleasant. It’s something that pairs itself with other symptoms like unusual discharge, itching, and burning. Any bacterial outgrowth, including bacterial infections and STIs, can cause these issues, but there are a lot more to look into when it come to reasons behind vaginal odour:
Common causes of vaginal odour
Bacterial Vaginosis
Approximately 29% of women are prevalent to BV, which is one of the most causes of abnormal vaginal odour. BV occurs when the harmful bacteria Gardnerella vaginalis outnumbers the good bacteria colonies, leading to grayish discharge and a fishy smell.
Trichomoniasis
It’s a sexually transmitted disease that can cause foul vaginal smell, greenish-yellowish discharge, itching, and burning after sex. Over 5% of women globally are affected by trichomoniasis.
Menstruation
While it’s not at all a cause of concern, menstruation can cause foul vaginal smell due to blood being higher in pH than the vaginal environment.
Sexual Activity
Like period blood, semen can also alter the vaginal pH, sometimes leading to noticeable odour after intercourse. It’s usually temporary and shouldn’t raise a flag.
Diet
Strong-smelling food (hello, garlic and onion!) or fish can subtly alter your vaginal odour just like sweat and breath. Again, not a cause of concern unless you have a chronic bad diet. Also, ensure you have enough probiotics in your diet.
Sweating
Your groin has sweat glands. Non-breathing synthetic clothes that trap moisture can promote bacterial overgrowth and lead to a musky smell.
Overwashing
Overwashing, use of soap, or douching can disrupt vaginal pH and allow harmful bacteria to grow, causing infections and vaginal odour.
Hormonal Changes
Shifts during puberty, pregnancy, postpartum, or menopause can influence the smell due to changes in pH and vaginal secretions.
All of these factors can contribute to what many describe as a bad odour in the private part or feminine hygiene odour issues that can be persistent without proper care.
How is abnormal vaginal odour diagnosed?
Your vaginal odour is only a symptom and the diagnosis are for the underlying issues that are causing this. Here is a quick chart of how they’re diagnosed:
| Step | Description |
| Medical History Review | Evaluation of sexual activity, hygiene practices, infection history, and symptoms. |
| Pelvic Examination | Physical exam using a speculum to observe discharge, inflammation, or signs of infection. |
| Sample Collection | Swab of vaginal discharge taken for lab analysis. |
| Microscopy (Wet Mount) | Discharge is examined under a microscope to detect bacteria, yeast, or parasites like Trichomonas. |
| Vaginal pH Testing | Measures acidity; pH above 4.5 can indicate bacterial vaginosis or trichomoniasis. |
| Vaginal Cultures | Identifies specific bacteria or fungi responsible for the odour. |
| Whiff Test | Potassium hydroxide is added to discharge; a fishy odour suggests bacterial vaginosis. |
| Additional STI Tests | Testing for infections like gonorrhea, chlamydia, or trichomoniasis-often using NAAT for accuracy. |
How to eliminate vaginal odour naturally
While it’s often always better to consult your physician for foul vaginal odour, There are gentle home remedies for vaginal odour and home remedies for fishy odour that can help freshen things up if there is no signs of infections:
Natural remedies to get rid of vaginal odor safely and gently
When it comes to managing vaginal odour, natural remedies can offer gentle, effective relief – especially when the issue isn’t linked to an underlying infection.
These remedies work by restoring pH balance, reducing excess moisture, and supporting the body’s natural defences.
1. Apple cider vinegar (ACV) baths
ACV has natural antibacterial and antifungal properties. Adding half a cup of ACV to a warm sitz bath and soaking for 15-20 minutes may help restore your vaginal pH and eliminate odour-causing bacteria. Make sure to use raw, unfiltered vinegar and avoid internal douching.
2. Baking soda soaks
Baking soda is alkaline and can help neutralize acidity that sometimes leads to imbalance. Dissolve 1/4 cup in a warm bath and soak for 15 minutes. It’s especially helpful if the odour is caused by a temporary shift in pH due to sweat, stress, or hormonal changes.
3. Tea tree oil (Diluted)
Known for its strong antimicrobial properties, tea tree oil can be diluted with a carrier oil (like coconut oil) and applied externally – never inside the vagina. Just a few drops in a bath or diluted topical application can help reduce odour and calm inflammation.
4. Probiotics and fermented foods
Eating probiotic-rich foods like yogurt, kefir, kimchi, and sauerkraut, or taking a high-quality probiotic supplement, can help restore healthy bacteria (like Lactobacillus) in the vaginal flora. This internal support can be key to maintaining long-term balance and preventing odour.
5. Coconut oil
This versatile oil is naturally antimicrobial and soothing. Applying a small amount externally may help reduce bacterial overgrowth and prevent irritation. Use only virgin, cold-pressed coconut oil and patch test to ensure no sensitivity.
6. Stay hydrated and eat clean
Hydration helps flush out toxins, while a clean, plant-rich diet low in processed sugar can support optimal gut and vaginal health. Excess sugar can promote yeast overgrowth, which is a common contributor to unpleasant odours.
While natural remedies can work wonders, they’re most effective when paired with good hygiene habits and breathable clothing. And if the odour is persistent or accompanied by other symptoms like discharge, itching, or burning – always check in with a healthcare provider to rule out infections.
How is vaginal odour prevented and treated?
| Tip | Description |
| Practice good (but gentle) hygiene | Wash the vulva daily with warm water. Use mild, fragrance-free soap. Avoid douching and scented products. |
| Wear breathable, cotton underwear | Cotton allows airflow and absorbs moisture better than synthetic fabrics, helping prevent odour caused by sweat and bacteria. |
| Stay hydrated | Drinking water supports natural detoxification and maintans healthy vaginal secretions that regulate odour. |
| Eat a balanced diet | Probiotic-rich foods (yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut) support good bacteria. Reducing sugar may help prevent yeast overgrowth. |
| Manage sweat & stay dry | Change out of sweaty or damp clothes promptly to avoid bacterial buildup and odour. |
| Sleep without underwear | Going commando at night helps the area stay dry and ventilated, reducing moisture-related odour. |
| Practice safe sex | Use condoms during sexual activity to prevent the introduction of bacteria or sexually transmitted infections that can cause odour. |
When to see a doctor
While it’s natural to have a musky odour, if the smell down there is suddenly strong, fishy, or just not your usual, and it sticks around, even after good hygiene, it’s better to consult your doctor. Especially if it comes with itching, burning, and unusual discharge. Trust your body. When something feels off, it’s always okay to get it looked at.
Conclusion
You’ve hopefully comprehended how to get rid of vaginal odour, with and without the help of your doctor in some cases. We’ve also discussed the common causes behind vaginal odour, with BV leading the list. While most case of vaginal odour is self-consciousness, serious underlying issues may also be the reason in your case. Consult your doctor and take the precautions mentioned in this article. All the best!
