If you're concerned about an unusual vaginal odor or an odor that doesn't go away, see your health care provider. Your provider may perform a vaginal exam, especially if you also have itching, burning, irritation, discharge or other symptoms.
Self-care tips for vaginal odor include:
- Wash outside your vagina during regular baths or showers. Use a small amount of mild, unscented soap and lots of water.
- Avoid douching. All healthy vaginas contain bacteria and yeast. The typical acidity of the vagina keeps bacteria and yeast in check. Douching can upset this delicate balance.
Feb. 25, 2022
- Bacterial vaginosis — CDC fact sheet. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. https://www.cdc.gov/std/bv/stdfact-bacterial-vaginosis.htm. Accessed Feb. 10, 2022.
- Douching. Office on Women's Health. http://womenshealth.gov/publications/our-publications/fact-sheet/douching.html. Accessed Feb. 10, 2022.
- Sobel JD, et al. Bacterial vaginosis: Clinical manifestations and diagnosis. https://www.uptodate.com/contents/search. Accessed Feb. 10, 2022.
- Ferri FF. Cervical cancer. In: Ferri's Clinical Advisor 2022. Elsevier; 2022. https://www.clinicalkey.com. Accessed Feb. 10, 2022.
- Ferri FF. Vaginal cancer. In: Ferri's Clinical Advisor 2022. Elsevier; 2022. https://www.clinicalkey.com. Accessed Feb. 10, 2022.
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- Gershenson DM, et al. Genital tract infections. In: Comprehensive Gynecology. 8th ed. Elsevier; 2022. https://www.clinicalkey.com. Accessed Feb. 14, 2022.