Vaginal odor can change naturally, but a strong or unusual smell may sometimes signal an infection or other health issue. Learn four common causes of vaginal odor and when to see a doctor.
A certain amount of vaginal odor is completely normal. The vagina is not supposed to be completely odorless, and its natural scent can change throughout the menstrual cycle, after exercise, during pregnancy, or after sex.
However, if the smell suddenly becomes unusually strong, unpleasant, or different from your normal scent—especially when accompanied by discharge, itching, burning, pain, or irritation—it may be worth getting checked.
Here are four common reasons vaginal odor can become noticeable.
1. Bacterial Vaginosis
Bacterial vaginosis (BV) is one of the most common causes of an unusual vaginal odor.
BV occurs when the normal balance of bacteria in the vagina changes. A characteristic symptom can be a strong, fishy odor, sometimes particularly noticeable after sex.
Other symptoms may include:
- Thin white or gray discharge
- Increased vaginal discharge
- Mild irritation
- Burning during urination in some women
Not everyone with BV has obvious symptoms, so a medical evaluation may be necessary to determine the cause.
BV is treatable, but it’s important not to assume that every unusual odor is BV because other conditions can cause similar symptoms.
2. A Forgotten Tampon or Other Retained Object
A retained tampon can cause a very strong, unpleasant or foul odor.
This can happen if someone accidentally forgets that a tampon has been inserted, particularly during a busy or confusing period.
Other possible signs include unusual discharge, pelvic discomfort, or irritation.
If you think a tampon may have been left inside, don’t panic. If you cannot remove it easily, or you develop significant pain, fever, dizziness, or feel unwell, seek medical attention promptly.
3. Sex and Changes in Vaginal Chemistry
Sex can temporarily change vaginal odor.
Semen has a different pH from the vagina, and sexual activity can temporarily alter the vaginal environment. Lubricants, condoms, menstrual blood, and bodily fluids can also affect the scent.
This doesn’t necessarily mean something is wrong.
If the odor disappears after washing the external genital area and returning to your normal routine, it may simply have been a temporary change.
However, a persistent strong odor—especially with unusual discharge or irritation—shouldn’t automatically be attributed to sex.
4. Trichomoniasis and Other Infections
Trichomoniasis is a sexually transmitted infection caused by a parasite. It can cause an unusual vaginal odor and may also produce:
- Increased discharge
- Yellowish or greenish discharge
- Genital itching or irritation
- Burning when urinating
- Discomfort during sex
Some people have few or no symptoms, so testing is important when there is a possibility of exposure.
Other vaginal or cervical infections can also produce changes in discharge and odor. A healthcare professional can determine the cause through an examination and appropriate testing.
What About Sweat?
Sometimes what seems like a vaginal odor is actually coming from the vulva or surrounding groin area.
The external genital area contains sweat glands, and heat, exercise, tight clothing, or prolonged moisture can create a stronger body odor.
This is different from an odor originating inside the vagina.
Changing out of sweaty clothing, wearing breathable underwear, and gently washing the external genital area can help.
Don’t Try to “Clean” the Inside of Your Vagina
One important point: the vagina is self-cleaning.
You don’t need to use scented washes, perfumes, deodorants, or douches inside the vagina to eliminate a normal smell.
Douching can disturb the natural vaginal environment and may increase the risk of problems such as bacterial vaginosis.
For routine hygiene, gently wash the outside—the vulva—with warm water and, if desired, a mild unscented cleanser. Avoid putting soaps, perfumes, or other products inside the vagina.
When Should You See a Doctor?
Make an appointment with a healthcare professional if you notice a persistent or unusually strong odor, particularly if you also have:
- New or unusual vaginal discharge
- Itching or burning
- Pelvic or lower abdominal pain
- Pain during sex
- Burning when urinating
- Bleeding that isn’t part of your normal period
- Sores or unusual skin changes
- Symptoms after possible exposure to an STI
Seek urgent medical care if you have severe pelvic pain, fever, vomiting, fainting, or feel seriously unwell.
The Bottom Line
A healthy vagina does have a natural smell, and it can vary from woman to woman and from one time of the month to another. A slightly different scent doesn’t automatically mean something is wrong.
But a new, persistent, or particularly unpleasant odor—especially when accompanied by discharge, itching, pain, or burning—can be a sign of an infection or another issue that deserves medical attention.
Rather than trying to cover the smell with perfumes or vaginal washes, finding the underlying cause is the safest approach.