What You Need to Know About Vaginal Odor

Change is normal, and the truth about vaginal odor is that it can vary depending on your menstrual cycle, hygiene habits, or may just be the norm for you! When you look at a shelf in the pharmacy, you will notice a myriad of products claiming to get rid of vaginal odor. The reason behind so many products is the issue is a common one, but one you can efficiently deal with.

Why do I Experience Vaginal Odor?

Some vaginal odor is typical in women, but infection or inflammation of your cervix or vagina can result in an unusually persistent or strong smell. There are a number of conditions or diseases that can cause you to experience a bad vaginal odor:

• STDs (sexually transmitted diseases)
• An overgrowth or imbalance of microorganisms, such a yeast or bacteria that typically grow in your vagina, known as bacterial vaginosis

Bacterial vaginosis (BV) is one of the most common causes of vaginal odor and is caused by an overgrowth of certain bacteria. For most women, this is not a cause of alarm, but it can increase your chance of developing an STD. If you are pregnant, BV can increase your risk of complications.

What Causes Vaginal Odor?

Serious conditions cause some forms of vaginal odor, and others just require good hygiene practices to treat. Daily washing of your genitals with mild soap and water can minimize these smells, but will not cure it if it's a result of an STD or other form of infection.

Bacterial infections or yeast infections will also result in vaginal odors. Some of the common diseases include Gardnerella vaginalis, Chancroid, Chlamydia, herpes, Gonorrhea, or a PID (pelvic inflammatory disease). Other causes of an unpleasant smell from your vagina could be from a tampon being left in more than several hours, or a vaginal yeast infection known as vaginal thrush.

Experiencing a strong or persistent vaginal odor can be due to underlying conditions, you will want your physician to diagnose. Seeking medical attention can minimize your risk of serious complications, as there are medical treatments available to treat most of these conditions.

How To Get Rid of Vaginal Odor

There are times when washing with soap and water will not help eliminate vaginal odors. You may need a little more help or other techniques to get rid of these smells. Here are some alternatives for you to use:

• Deodorizing products can be used if you apply them on the outside of your labia. Do not spray or apply them to your vagina as they will upset your natural chemistry and cause more significant problems.
• Changing your panties or underwear to cotton will help as silk or polyester panties do not allow for keeping fluids and sweat away from your body. Cotton will prevent excess moisture from being held against your body and reduce the bacteria levels that can grow and lead to infections. 
• pH products are available as over-the-counter solutions to restore your vagina's natural pH.
• Essential oils have not been medically researched, but some of these oils contain antifungal and antimicrobial properties that are able to eliminate and reduce bacteria. Do not apply them directly to your skin unless they have been diluted.
• Your Blissful also carries a line of all-natural vaginal solutions that can help you reduce or eliminate vaginal odors!