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When to see a doctor
By Mayo Clinic staffIf you are concerned about an abnormal or persistent vaginal odor, see your doctor — especially if you have other symptoms such as itching, burning or discharge.
In the meantime, to minimize vaginal odor:
- Wash your external genital area. During regular baths or showers, use a very small amount of mild, unscented soap and lots of water.
- Avoid douching. All healthy vaginas contain some bacteria and other organisms. The normal acidity of the vagina keeps bacteria and yeast in check. But douching can actually upset this delicate balance.
References
- Bacterial vaginosis — CDC fact sheet. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. http://www.cdc.gov/STD/BV/STDFact-Bacterial-Vaginosis.htm. Accessed March 10, 2011.
- Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) — CDC fact sheet. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. http://www.cdc.gov/std/PID/STDFact-PID.htm. Accessed March 10, 2011.
- Hillard PA. Vaginal signs and symptoms: Vaginal discharge. In: Hillard PA. The 5-minute Obstetrics and Gynecology Consult. Philadelphia, Pa.: Lippincott Williams & Wilkins; 2008:48.
- Husain A, et al. Recto-vaginal fistula. In: Hillard PA. The 5-minute Obstetrics and Gynecology Consult. Philadelphia, Pa.: Lippincott Williams & Wilkins; 2008:162.
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