Definition

By Mayo Clinic Staff

Vaginal odor is any odor that comes from the vagina. The vagina usually has only a mild odor or sometimes no odor at all. A "fishy" smell or other strong vaginal odor might mean there's a problem.

Conditions that cause a strong vaginal odor might also cause other vaginal symptoms such as itching, burning, irritation or discharge.

If you have vaginal odor but have no other vaginal symptoms, it's unlikely that the odor is cause for concern. You may be tempted to douche or use a vaginal deodorant to decrease vaginal odor. But these products may actually make odor worse and cause irritation and other vaginal symptoms.

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Feb. 25, 2022

See also

  1. Bacterial vaginosis
  2. Sex during vaginal infection: Is it harmful?
  3. Vaginitis
  4. Yeast infection during pregnancy