Why does my period smell? That is a question many women have asked at one time or another during their lifetime. A woman’s menstrual period is a natural occurrence that is unpleasant for most women and the odor that accompanies it only makes matters worse. Even if you are very meticulous about your hygiene, it can be quite embarrassing if you leave a foul odor when you exit the room. As careful as you may be in keeping the evidence of your period hidden, sometimes you need a little extra help keeping the smell under control as well.
My Period Smells, Is It Normal?
Yes, if it isn't serious and doesn't change abruptly.
Your vaginal odor changes all the time, varying throughout your cycle and naturally becoming more pungent during your period. Sometimes it is just a little stronger, but at other times your period blood smells like rotten meat. Rest assured, usually you are the only one who notices it.
However, if you notice a sharp change in the smell of your menstrual odor, it is best to contact your physician. This is especially important if the smell is associated with irritation and pain lasting for several days. These can be symptoms of a more serious condition.
Why Does My Period Smell?
Vagina pH
Your body maintains a delicate balance between the “good” and “bad” bacteria normally found in your vagina. The acidic pH in your vagina keeps the “bad bacteria” from taking over, but during your menstrual flow the pH changes and is less acidic. When this happens, there is a spike in bacterial growth and you can end up with rotten smelling period blood.
Menstrual Products
Menstrual pads are a huge culprit in causing bad odors during periods because they block air from reaching the genitals. In addition, they keep menstrual blood from drying. The combination of these things can cause a strong odor that is hard to cover up.
Tampons prevent odors when inserted, but at the same time make for the perfect environment for bacteria to thrive. Because this affects the pH balance of the vagina, once it is taken out a strong odor can emerge as well.
Forgotten Tampon
The dreaded forgotten tampon – a nightmare for any woman. If you suddenly notice a strong odor coming from your vagina after your period has ended, you may have forgotten to remove a tampon. After a while, the abandoned tampon will omit a very strong, foul smelling odor. You can check yourself by inserting your fingers into your vagina to see if you can feel anything. If you do, try and remove it. If you can’t remove the tampon yourself or are still unsure if anything is even still in there, see your doctor who can remove it for you.
Other Causes
Why does my period smell? Other reasons can include:
Trichomonas infection is a common cause of foul odors during menstruation. It is a sexually-transmitted infection that causes an abnormal vaginal discharge, as well as itching and burning with urination.
Yeast infections occur when the pH level is off balance in the vagina, thus causing a thick discharge and a bad odor. Women taking antibiotics or contraceptive pills are more susceptible to this type of infection.
Cervix infections can cause strong odors during menstrual periods. Inflammation and an abnormal discharge usually accompany the smell.
What to Do If My Period Smells?
Try Using Chemical-Free Menstrual Products
Your menstrual flow does not normally have a bad odor. However, when combined with bacteria, a foul smell can develop. Usually, chemical-free menstrual products reduce odors and help keep bacteria at bay. Cloth pads allow your vagina area to remain drier and do not contain chemicals. Also, menstrual cups differ from tampons as they allow for vaginal self-cleaning while not exposing your menstrual flow to air.
Don’t Use Wet Wipes
Don’t use wet wipes, also known as baby wipes. Since they contain chemicals, they can mess with your vaginal pH. Also, they are often antibacterial so they can kill good bacteria as well as the bad. The combination of effects when using the wipes can cause strong odors. Instead, replace wipes with dampened toilet paper.
Keep an Extra Pair of Panties with You
Menstrual products need to be changed every few hours, but we often get busy and forget. Pads, menstrual cups and tampons can leak. If that happens, change into a pair of clean panties as soon as you can. This will help eliminate the odor that has soaked into your soiled underwear.
Take Daily Showers
Take a shower every day, especially during your menstrual period. There is no need to use soap products around your genital area. They only mess with your pH balance. Water is good enough as your vagina is self-cleaning. Also, when you menstruate, your body releases more oil and sweat so it helps to keep your whole body clean and keep odors in check.
Extra Home Remedies
There are many home remedies that can help control odors associated with menstruation. They include:
Eat more garlic, which has anti-fungal properties.
Consume yogurt, which has good bacteria that helps keep your acidic pH levels in the vagina balanced.
Eat a good, healthy diet.
Drink water that has steeped overnight with fenugreek seeds.
Use a rice wash to flush your genital area and rinse away odors.
When to See a Doctor
Sometimes a strong odor during menstruation means there is something else going on with your body. If the strong smell continued after your period ends and it is particularly foul, contact your doctor. If the odor is accompanied by itching, watering or clumpy discharge or smells fishy, make an appointment with your physician right away as it may be a sign of a yeast infection or bacterial vaginosis.
View All Comments /Add Comment