Why does my vagina smell? What’s normal and when to see a provider

Talking about vaginal odor can feel awkward, but it’s totally normal to have questions. The truth is, your vagina has a natural scent, and it’s not supposed to smell like roses or vanilla (despite products you might see in the hygiene aisle). But how do you know when your vaginal odor is normal or when something’s off? 

Let’s break down what’s normal, what’s not, and when you might want to check in with a health care provider. If you’re experiencing BV with symptoms like fishy vaginal odor, Hey Jane offers quick online consultations and treatment prescribed to your local pharmacy for pick up. To get started, click here.

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What does a healthy vagina smell like?

A healthy vagina usually has a mild, musky smell—kind of like skin, but with a little more personality. But every vagina has a natural scent, and it can change from day to day. Here’s why:

So, a bit of variation? Completely normal. But if the smell is super strong, fishy, or just feels off, it might be time to dig deeper.

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What can cause vaginal odor?

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1. Bacterial vaginosis (BV)

BV is one of the most common causes of vaginal odor. It often causes a strong fishy smell, especially after sex. You might also notice a thin, gray or white discharge. BV happens when the natural balance of bacteria in your vagina changes. While many people try to use natural remedies to treat BV, the most effective way to get rid of this vaginal infection is with prescription antibiotic pills or creams from a provider like Hey Jane. 

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2. Yeast infections

Yeast infections often smell sweet or bread-like, and come with thick, clumpy, white discharge and itching. They happen when the normal yeast levels in the vagina grow too much—often after antibiotic use, pregnancy, or wearing tight and damp clothing. Over-the-counter or prescription antifungal creams from a provider like Hey Jane can help treat it.

3. STIs like trichomoniasis

Trichomoniasis can cause a strong, unpleasant odor, itching, burning, or a significant amount of greenish or yellow discharge that requires a tampon or pad. Other STIs (like chlamydia or gonorrhea) can also change your scent. STI testing can confirm if this is the cause of your odor, and prescription treatment can help clear up the infection.

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4. Sweat and poor airflow

Sweat glands in your groin area can cause vaginal odor—especially after exercise or in hot weather. To keep things fresh, wash your vulva (the lips outside your vagina) with warm water and mild, unscented soap. Just remember to avoid putting soap or scented products in your vagina—this can change the balance of good bacteria and make odor worse! If you’re wearing sweaty clothes, change out of them as soon as you can.

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5. Period blood or old tampon

A metallic smell from period blood normal due to the iron in the blood. However, if you leave a tampon in too long, it can create a strong, rotten odor and potentially toxic shock syndrome (TSS). If that happens, remove it immediately. If the smell persists, consider seeing your health care provider.

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6. Urine leakage or incontinence

An ammonia-like smell could be from small urine leaks, which can happen due to incontinence (loss of bladder control). Strengthening your pelvic floor with physical therapy, where they may recommend exercises like Kegels, can help, but if the issue continues, it’s best to consult a health care provider.

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7. Eating habits and hydration 

What you eat (like garlic, coffee, or asparagus) can affect your scent. So can alcohol and spicy foods. 

If you’re dehydrated, your vagina can emit a strong, ammonia-like smell. Drinking plenty of water will help maintain your body’s natural balance and water down stronger odors from certain foods. 

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When to seek medical care for vaginal odor

Reach out to your provider if you notice:

• Odor that lasts more than a few days
• A strong, fishy, or rotten smell that doesn’t go away
• Discharge that is green, yellow, or chunky and white
• Itching, burning, or pain during sex or peeing
• Changes in discharge that are not normal for you

If you're not sure, it’s okay to check in. And if you have BV or a yeast infection, you can consult with a provider via chat or video and get prescription treatment ASAP. To get started, fill out our online intake form.

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Tips to keep your vaginal scent healthy