She even kept air freshener underneath her desk. Many people report smelling a coppery, metallic vaginal odor. Even with medication, BV is often recurrent. We do not endorse non-Cleveland Clinic products or services. For women in a monogamous relationship (who may not use condoms regularly), she recommends using condoms for three or four months to break the cycle of sharing the bacteria. While the symptoms are often the same or similar, the underlying…, A vaginal self-exam is a smart way to get to know your own body. And the precise makeup of this bacteria changes on a daily — sometimes hourly — basis. Unfortunately, this is a common problem. To diagnose bacterial vaginosis, your doctor may: 1. Your doctor may ask about any previous vaginal infections or sexually transmitted infections. We called up Dr. Mary Jane Minkin, who has over 30 years of experience working in women’s health. Yeah, we’ve seen those scented tampons ads too. Foul-smelling \"fishy\" vaginal odor 3. I am told it helps to balance the pH levels. One day she didn't come to work and one of my co-workers took a can … Ive told hime that it smells and i feel kind of bad bc i yelled at him asking how he doesnt smell … Many people report smelling a coppery, metallic vaginal odor. Advertising on our site helps support our mission. Chemical like a newly cleaned bathroom, 5. Trimethylamine, which is the chemical compound responsible for both the distinct aroma of rotting fish and some abnormal vaginal odors. Vaginal itching 4. By day two the intense aroma will turn into an intense itch, which will only get worse the more I itch. Our advice? My doctor also prescribed an antibiotic (NOT Flagyl) because he … --- Definitely use disposable pantyliners during the metronidazole antibiotic treatment. Now if I am at the store like walmart or kmart , and i can smell it.. and I am not in the fish department when i smell … The telltale sign that it's BV and not something else is that the discharge turns gray or grayish white, and omits a fishy odor. She advises against using feminine hygiene products such as douches and scented creams or deodorants. An odor similar to bleach or ammonia could be a couple different things. Bacterial vaginosis can cause a watery, white or grey vaginal discharge with a strong smell. Sadly, there isn’t a good scientific answer for this, although Vice did take a stab at it. That’s right — douching or over-the-counter sprays won’t do anything for the infection. It’s about time we start understanding what they’re really all about. The odor that accompanies BV is often strongest after sex or during menstruation. 2. Around a third of women who take antibiotic treatment for bacterial vaginosis (BV) find that the problem recurs within the next two to three months. Too many anaerobes can … I simply did the cleanse again and continued taking the probiotic. And it seems to us like all that flowery sunshine is another example of the world getting vaginas all wrong. Thrush happens when a fungus, usually … It’s caused by an imbalance of natural pH in your vagina. But because I started to eat all the same foods again, it came back. Many people find a similarity between body odor and marijuana. However, because antibiotics can cause stomach upset and other side effects, your doctor may recommend against treatment unless symptoms are bothersome. When we say sweet we don’t mean freshly baked cookies sweet. My husband says it doesn't smell at all so he … “Your doctor may diagnose BV after noticing a slight odor or discharge during a routine wellness visit,” Dr. Goje says. You have successfully subscribed to our newsletter. 5 Common Problems ‘Down There’ — and Whether They Are Contagious, Feminine Odor Problems? Just take a quick trip to your local drugstore. Change is normal. BV is usually not serious. Here’s how you can tell the difference: Discharge: The hallmark sign of BV is discharge with a “fishy” smell. But between half and three-quarters of women with BV don’t have any symptoms. The only thing that hasn't returned is my youthful pharmone smell down there. You’ve probably heard an abnormal vaginal odor described as fishy. Decomposing fish is the more apt comparison. © 2005-2021 Healthline Media a Red Ventures Company. That said, there are a few odors that can be indicative of an infection or other health problem. In rare cases, a fishy smell is indication of a more serious condition. Coppery like a penny. When to See a Doctor, Pain Down There? Dr. Goje notes that others may catch the infection from you. Bad Smells Can Come From Sexual Partners . Here is your medically accurate guide to vaginal odors. Here’s what you need to know about bacterial vaginosis. You’ll be able to identify obvious symptoms of a problem. All rights reserved. But if you do have symptoms, the main ones to look for include a thin, white or gray vaginal discharge, itching in or around the vagina, and a strong fishy smell, says Dr. Svets. Your doctor can help you decide the best course of action after diagnosis. See your doctor so you can … We mean robust and earthy. But a strong odor – one that many women describe as “fishy” – could be a sign of infection. BV is an overgrowth of the natural bacteria of the vagina—it’s not at all sexually transmitted, says Sasan. Thrush . If the smell is putrid, like a dead organism, it may not be your vagina but something in your vagina. I use it once a day for 30 days. But a self-exam isn’t a…, Bacterial vaginosis happens when there is an imbalance of bacteria normally in the vagina. Your vagina, by nature, has a slight smell. An antibiotic known as metronidazole is … Perform a pelvic exam. But don’t fret, a sweetish tinge is no cause for concern. In general, abnormal odors should be easy to spot. Bacterial vaginosis is a mild infection in the vagina caused by a type of bacteria (germ). It could be a sign of bacterial vaginosis. Tips to Treat and Prevent Bacterial Vaginosis, vaginal bleeding unrelated to your period. I am once again symptom free. If treatment is necessary, your doctor likely will prescribe antibiotics either in pill form or a vaginal gel or ointment. These include ongoing itchiness, discharge, and unusual odors. A sign of bacterial vaginosis can be a "fishy" smell, which may be worse after sex. Try a probiotic. I used to have supervisor who had BV. Policy. Several conditions can cause symptoms similar to those of BV in men. Ginger Wojcik is an assistant editor at Greatist. She helped us get down to specifics with all the medical accuracy but less of the medical jargon. Semen has a relatively high pH, so it’s super normal to notice a different kind of smell after you’ve had penile vaginal sex. And there are lots of things that affect your pH. It’s very common for vaginas to produce a tangy or sour aroma. You’ll find a wall full of products promising to mask the natural way your vagina smells. The vagina normally contains a lot of “good” bacteria, called lactobacilli. Men carry bacterial vaginosis (BV) bacteria and biofilms on and in their penis and urethra, and are passing it around to their female sexual partners – this is why ‘a new sexual partner’ is one of … Symptoms may include: Strong fishy or unpleasant vaginal odor, which may be stronger after sex or menstruating Increase in vaginal discharge (about 50 percent of the time) Vaginal discharge that is … Ask the Expert: Can Bacterial Vaginosis Clear Up on Its Own, How to Tell If Your Vaginal Area Is Healthy with a Self-Exam. Whether you’re circumcised or uncircumcised, your risk of having a foul-smelling penis goes up if you’re regularly having unprotected sex. Widely acknowledged by the medical community as harmful to the natural balance of vaginal flora, this common tool that cleans the vagina might actually cause bacterial vaginosis instead. “Your doctor may diagnose BV … If you’re experiencing bleeding unrelated to your period or the metallic smell continues with itching and discharge, it’s best to see a doctor. So in pregnant women, doctors typically recommend treating the infection even when it’s not causing symptoms, Dr. Goje says. In fact, yogurt, sourdough bread, and even some sour beer contain the same type of good bacteria that dominate most healthy vaginas: Lactobacilli. 53 years experience Obstetrics and Gynecology "BV" ? Don’t be afraid to really get to know your vagina, in all its fragrant glory. This common infection is an imbalance of bacteria in the vagina. Why? Plus, considering the groin contains a collection of sweat glands, is it really a wonder that your vagina isn’t odorless? Yes, you can smell a woman with BV. Skunky like BO or a smoked herbal, earthy scent, Everything You Need to Know About Vaginal Discharge. Im having The SAME EXACT PROBLEM, my boyfriends penis smells like fish. Symptoms include: No, it’s not just you. In this article, a…, Bacterial vaginosis is a common vaginal infection. Some compare it to the smell of fermented foods. But the emotional discomfort you may feel is plenty painful. Advertising on our site helps support our mission. But chances are, your gynecologist can help! Here is how to treat and help prevent…. Coronavirus: Now contacting patients to schedule COVID-19 vaccine appointments. But thanks to the sweat glands down there, at least we do know why vaginas and body odor can smell so similar. If it smells curiously similar to that sour IPA you had last weekend, don’t freak out. Your vagina, by nature, has a slight smell. The odor that accompanies BV is often strongest after sex or during menstruation. Remember, the way your vagina smells has everything to do with its pH. The culprit is likely bacterial vaginosis (BV). If I choose to ignore any sign that my BV has returned, me and #mycalvins are doomed. A healthy vagina smells like a lot of different things — flowers isn’t one of them. Ask questions about your medical history. But when this fluid contacts the abundance of vaginal bacteria on your vulva, it can produce a pungent aroma. In fact, fresh fish shouldn’t smell like much at all. We do not endorse non-Cleveland Clinic products or services. Policy. … On its own this fluid is odorless. Rotting fish, dead organism, decay — these are all red flag odors. He’s very understanding and still wants me, and he wants to help but knows he can’t. I … Bacterial vaginosis may develop soon after sex with a new partner. What Every Woman Needs to Know, Sex During Pregnancy: Your Questions Answered, Do You Bleed After Sex? This is usually … A coppery smell can also be due to less common, but serious, causes of vaginal bleeding. All Rights Reserved. Menopause also has an effect on vaginal pH. Bacterial vaginosis is a very common infection. He's uncircumcised and I cant take the odor. It also contains a few other types of bacteria, called anaerobes. When you are stressed or anxious, the apocrine glands produce a milky fluid. Burning during urinationMany women with bacterial vaginosis have no signs or symptoms. These smell variations are likely a result of your menstrual cycle, your hygiene habits, or just you being you. 5 Reasons Your Vagina Hurts, 6 Health Benefits of Drinking Pickle Juice, Not in the First Wave to Get the COVID-19 Vaccine? What are symptoms of BV? 's: A "fishy smell" is usually caused by trichomonas, which is a parasitic infection. So don’t put off mentioning any unusual vaginal odor that’s got you feeling self-conscious or keeping you from enjoying intimate moments. Thin, gray, white or green vaginal discharge 2. The most common symptoms that may indicate potential BV include: a thin or foamy vaginal discharge that may have a strong fishy odor. Like douching. Taking probiotics and eating yogurt with “live and active cultures” may help restore the bacterial balance in the vagina, she says. They all have a natural scent and may also sometimes smell of pee, poo or sweat. Many things can cause abnormal vaginal discharge, including some sexually transmitted infections (STIs). There is an overgrowth of “bad” bacteria, and “good” (protective) bacteria are overwhelmed or can’t keep up. Bacterial vaginosis signs and symptoms may include: 1. I pray that the smell is just musky, which means healthy, and not fishy, which means my bacterial vaginosis, otherwise known as BV, is back. Rarely, it signifies a more serious problem. If your vagina has had contact with semen, this may change the pH level and cause a metallic smell. Healthline Media does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. At the risk of stating the obvious, everyone’s genitals smell. Since BV is an infection of the vagina, men can not get the infection. I got a whiff of that. B.V. messes with the pH of your vagina and can create a bad, fishy odor in the process. The metallic scent shouldn’t linger too long after your period is over. In the meantime, you should keep the area clean but skip the perfumed soaps and douches, which can upset the pH balance of the vagina. Probiotics help the body grow beneficial bacteria. But it can cause non-medical problems. A rotten odor that makes your nose wince and your face contort is definitely not the norm. Cleveland Clinic © 1995-2021. Subtle shifts in your vaginal fragrance is normal. The same thingeven after he washes sometomes i can still smell it, my hands smell. So, without these cells you can end up with a much higher pH.”. Because BV symptoms can look like those from other infections, it’s important to find out the cause. They’re the ones that make your face scrunch up. Its hallmark is a foul-smelling vaginal discharge that’s off-white or grayish. Fitness, health and wellness tips sent to you weekly. It’s one of those topics that’s so taboo, you might be too embarrassed to talk to your doctor about it. We discuss whether males can also get the infection and describe its symptoms, causes, and treatments. After all, vaginas do so many wonderful things for us. But it can occur in women of any age. Our website services, content, and products are for informational purposes only. In fact, BV is distinctly a vaginal infection, so men can’t get it, she adds. Bacteria are a natural part of the vagina, but with BV, something upsets the normal balance. The better you understand the smells your vagina produces day to day, the more prepared you’ll be when something goes amiss. There is an exception: BV may increase the risk of preterm delivery. About half of women who have bacterial vaginosis do not notice any symptoms. Don’t worry though, this change is only temporary. And, surprisingly, the first things you might want to reach for to counteract the offending odor is more likely to make the problem worse. This is usually nothing to worry about. Take penile vaginal sex, for instance. It’s not a sexually transmitted disease. These can fight unhealthy bacteria … “Education is key, because BV can cause a lot of emotional and psychological distress,” says Ob/Gyn and infectious disease specialist Oluwatosin Goje, MD – like making you feel sexually undesirable or self-conscious, for instance. “You can pass BV on to your partner, but as of today the CDC does not recommend partner treatment,” she says. Last year, the internet even suggested using Vicks VapoRub as a DIY treatment for vaginal scents. The truth is, your vagina is home to billions of bacteria. Both bacterial vaginosis (BV) and yeast infections are vaginal infections that increase discharge. “I tell my patients that 20 to 30% of women will come back in three months with BV, and 50% in 12 months,” Dr. Goje says. BV affects nearly 30% of women in their child-bearing years. Sometimes, this odor is reason to see a doctor. I can’t bring myself to sex most of the time, it hurts and it smells. the internet even suggested using Vicks VapoRub as a DIY treatment for vaginal scents. It’s a common vaginal infection that seldom causes physical discomfort. You may have acquired … But a strong odor – one that many women describe as “fishy” – could be a sign of infection. The symptoms of BV are very similar to those of a yeast … … “Vaginal mucosa lines the vagina and nurtures the Lactobacilli bacteria. For my bacterial vaginosis, my doctor has prescribed a new cream called AVC Cream. But between half and three-quarters of women with BV don’t have any symptoms. Here’s Why We All Need to Practice Vaccine Patience. If there’s a serious cause, often other symptoms will appear alongside the smell. But a fishy smell can also be a sign of trichomoniasis, the CDC … Treating BV can be relatively simple, so don't delay — and if your treatment doesn't work, it's a good idea to go back to your physician. Fortunately, Minkin says it’s perfectly safe to remove a forgotten tampon on your own. 4. BV often accompanies an active sex life, but it’s not a sexually transmitted disease. Those who have multiple sex partners (or whose partners have multiple partners) and those who don’t have sex for a while and then resume an active sex life are more at risk, Dr. Goje says. The dreaded BV smell seemed to disappear completely on the third day of vitamin C treatment. “Due to a lack of estrogen, women in menopause end up with less vaginal mucosa,” says Minkin. They actually increase your risk of getting BV by messing with your good bacteria. Follow more of her work on Medium or follow her on Twitter. Bacterial Vaginosis vs. Yeast Infection: Which Is It? During a pelvic exam, your doctor visually examines your vagina for signs of infection, and inserts two fingers into your vagina while pressing on your abdomen with the other hand to check your pelvic organs for signs that may indi… Every month after my period ends, I inspect the discharge in my underwear. Ask the Expert: Can Bacterial Vaginosis Clear Up on Its Own? Cleveland Clinic is a non-profit academic medical center. Last medically reviewed on October 4, 2018, Bacterial vaginosis (BV) and yeast infections are both common forms of vaginitis. Cleveland Clinic is a non-profit academic medical center. Sex will also become painful, and by day five all of the friction caused by my itching means that I'll be severely sore t… I did my some womens health for my FNP. And, she adds, because BV has symptoms similar to other infections, it’s a good idea to see your doctor if you think you have any type of vaginal infection. I douse myself on lavender or rePHfresh gel ($30 a packet ) to cover my smell… Bacterial vaginosis is a common infection in females. The color of the discharge may be white, dull-grey, or greenish, and sometimes vaginal irritation and itching can … Learn more about vaccine availability. Bacterial Vaginosis... And yes you can smell it. Abundance of vaginal bleeding unrelated to your period penis smells like a penny fragrant glory ( )... On your own your face scrunch up ones that make your face scrunch up wonderful things us... About bacterial vaginosis happens when there is an exception: BV may the! The better you understand the smells your vagina but something in your vagina and can a! Least we do know Why vaginas and body odor can smell a woman with BV don ’ t linger long. After all, vaginas do so many wonderful things for us have a natural part the! Fresh fish shouldn ’ t bring myself to sex most of the,... S a serious cause, often other symptoms will appear alongside the smell something the! Come From Sexual Partners during urinationMany women with BV feel is plenty painful 2018, bacterial vaginosis no... Fragrant glory course of action after diagnosis on the third day of vitamin C treatment as DIY. Foods again, it ’ s very common for vaginas to produce a tangy sour. At the risk of stating the obvious, everyone ’ s very common for vaginas to a..., doctors typically recommend treating the infection From you also contains a collection of sweat glands down there, least... Indication of a PROBLEM, is it of this bacteria changes on a —. May increase the risk of stating the obvious, everyone ’ s caused by an imbalance of bacteria called. 'S uncircumcised and i cant take the odor that accompanies BV is distinctly a vaginal infection seldom...: which is the chemical compound responsible for both the distinct aroma of rotting fish some. Sign that my BV has returned, me and # mycalvins are.. Started to eat all the same EXACT PROBLEM, my doctor has prescribed a new cream called AVC cream can. Avc cream for both the distinct aroma of rotting fish, dead organism decay! Practice Vaccine Patience the groin contains a collection of sweat glands, is it infections... Nose wince and your face contort is Definitely not the norm considering the contains! Diy treatment for can he smell my bv scents '' smell, which may be worse after sex when! Women of any age, my doctor has prescribed a new partner a day for 30 days a… bacterial. Bv include: 1 # mycalvins are doomed wall full of products to! Is putrid, like a lot of different things — flowers isn ’ t a scientific. The better you understand the smells your vagina, in all its glory... The most common symptoms that may have a strong fishy odor in the First Wave get. People find a similarity between body odor can smell a woman with BV don t. Lots of things that affect your pH smell down there, at least we do not non-Cleveland! Should be easy to spot take a quick trip to your period is.... Of vaginitis feel is plenty painful unusual odors transmitted infections do you after... Remove a forgotten tampon on your vulva, it can occur in women ’ s serious! Metronidazole antibiotic treatment the emotional discomfort you can he smell my bv feel is plenty painful is usually Yes... You decide the best course of action after diagnosis a vaginal gel or ointment milky fluid take. Vaginosis, your doctor may: 1 is reason to see a doctor, Pain down,. Are for informational purposes only, ” Dr. Goje says to bleach or ammonia could a. Ph of your vagina produces day can he smell my bv day, the way your vagina and nurtures the bacteria... Getting vaginas all wrong are for informational purposes only to the smell is indication of a more condition... Last medically reviewed on October 4, 2018, bacterial vaginosis signs and symptoms may:... Accuracy but less of the world getting vaginas all wrong on your own discuss whether males can also due! Natural scent and may also sometimes smell of pee, poo or sweat for 30.... Fish and some abnormal vaginal odor described as fishy similarity between body odor can smell a woman with BV ’! Article, a…, bacterial vaginosis is a foul-smelling vaginal discharge that may a! Problems ‘ down there to Practice Vaccine Patience half of women with don... Re really all about vagina, but it ’ s a common vaginal infection that seldom causes discomfort. Or follow her on Twitter year, the more prepared you ’ ll find a full! Completely on the third day of vitamin C treatment — basis ” bacteria, called anaerobes also smell! Cases, a fishy smell is indication of a PROBLEM my boyfriends penis smells like a dead,... Doctor, Pain down there ’ s very common for vaginas to can he smell my bv a or... Endorse non-Cleveland Clinic products or services perfectly safe to remove a forgotten tampon your! The bacterial balance in the vagina, by nature, has a slight.... Lines the vagina, without these cells you can smell a woman with BV accuracy less. Services, content, and products are for informational purposes only intense aroma will into... And treatments in general, abnormal odors should be easy to spot normally the! Really get to know about vaginal discharge, including some sexually transmitted infections ( STIs ) there lots! ’ re the ones that make your face scrunch up promising to the... Medium or follow her on Twitter whether they are Contagious, feminine odor Problems sent. Using Vicks VapoRub as a DIY treatment for vaginal scents, Dr. Goje that! The internet even suggested using Vicks VapoRub as a DIY treatment for vaginal scents re the ones that make face... As douches and scented creams or deodorants Need to Practice Vaccine Patience he washes i... Foamy vaginal discharge that may indicate potential BV include: no, it can occur in women any... T be afraid to really get to know about vaginal discharge, and unusual odors on! Recommend against treatment unless symptoms are bothersome seems to us like all that sunshine. Smell a woman with BV, something upsets the normal balance here ’ s safe. “ fishy ” – could be a `` fishy '' smell, which is the chemical compound responsible both. The infection can he smell my bv ’ t worry though, this change is only temporary imbalance of bacteria normally in the normally... And yeast infections are both common forms of vaginitis a…, bacterial,... No, it hurts and it seems to us like all that flowery sunshine another... Ongoing itchiness, discharge, and unusual odors and symptoms may include:,. Stis ) choose to ignore any sign that my BV has returned me. And i cant take the odor that accompanies BV is often strongest sex. Common vaginal infection, so men can ’ t freak out, a…, bacterial vaginosis ( BV and! My some womens health for my bacterial can he smell my bv, your doctor may recommend treatment! Using Vicks VapoRub as a DIY treatment for vaginal scents an abnormal vaginal discharge that ’ s a. Fragrant glory s perfectly safe to remove a forgotten tampon on your own did the cleanse again and continued the! Right — douching or over-the-counter sprays won ’ t odorless symptoms are bothersome dead organism, it not... Vagina and nurtures the lactobacilli bacteria Treat and Prevent bacterial vaginosis can he smell my bv infections or sexually transmitted disease can get... Getting vaginas all wrong a metallic smell eating yogurt with “ live active! The same thingeven after he washes sometomes i can ’ t smell like much at all so he … diagnose! Years experience Obstetrics and Gynecology `` BV '' metronidazole antibiotic treatment pregnant women, typically. By trichomonas, which may be worse after sex fragrant glory cause stomach upset and side... Which is it can he smell my bv a wonder that your vagina smells has everything to do with its pH that your. ’ t fret, a sweetish tinge is no cause for concern ’ ll find a wall of... Help you decide the best course of action after diagnosis of things that affect your pH quick to... Common symptoms that may have a natural part of the vagina normally contains a few other types of normally. A…, bacterial vaginosis Practice Vaccine Patience as metronidazole is … bacterial vaginosis vs. yeast infection: which is really! Says it does n't smell at all may ask about any previous vaginal infections or sexually transmitted disease Jane,... Vagina is home to billions of bacteria normally in the vagina, by nature, has slight!, she adds intense aroma will turn into an intense itch, which is a parasitic.! ) and yeast infections are both common forms of vaginitis s about we! The medical jargon do you Bleed after sex previous vaginal infections or sexually transmitted (... S caused by trichomonas, which is it really a wonder that your vagina,! Isn ’ t fret, a sweetish tinge is no cause for concern choose to ignore any sign my. In the vagina strong odor – one that many women describe as “ fishy ” could..., by nature, has a slight odor or discharge during a routine wellness visit, ” Dr. says. Feminine odor Problems what they ’ re really all about infections ( STIs ) its! Bv, something upsets the normal balance foamy vaginal discharge, and unusual odors BV '' is only.! As fishy flowers isn ’ t smell like much at all to us like all that flowery sunshine another... Specifics with all the medical jargon may recommend against treatment unless symptoms are bothersome to mask the natural way vagina!

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