Vaginal odor, especially an offensive smell after menstruation, is a problem that most women have to deal with. It is a very annoying ailment that causes much embarrassment and discomfort during times of intimacy. If you are affected by vaginal odor after period, then you have come to the right place.
First, you should know that most women have experiences with a foul-smelling discharge at the end of their menstrual cycle.
In general, the discharges which occur after menstrual periods have no odor or a faint smell. However, you could notice an odorless transparent or white discharge, smelly off-white or white, creamy discharge, green foul-smelling discharge or a brown smelly discharge.
In most cases, it is caused by the remnants from a shedding endometrial lining, but the cause could be linked to pathological diseases as well and call for urgent medical attention.
The problem might not affect all women the same way and with the same level of intensity, but everyone has to deal with to a certain extent.
Vaginal Odor after Period – Why Does It Happen
If you notice that you have a smelly white discharge after period, then it is possible that it’s caused by a yeast infection or thrush.
Candida albicans causes this infection and it happens whenever change occurs in vaginal flora.
This will hit your hormone balance hard, so you need to see a doctor or gynecologist to get prescription medication.
If your vaginal odor is accompanied by a yellowish green and frothy discharge after period, this could indicate that you have gonorrhea.
This should be promptly treated as it can progress to pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) [1].
If you have a creamy gray/off-white discharge with a fishy smell after period, you could be affected by bacterial vaginosis.
This condition will require you to get checked by a doctor in order to get the necessary treatment. On the other hand, you could have a Chlamydia infection if the smelly discharge is accompanied by a burning sensation inside the vagina.
The best way to know is to get tested at the earliest possible time because the disease can lead to infertility if treatment is not done in time.
If you have a slightly green discharge with a strong smell, then it is highly likely that you have a disease called trichomoniasis.
This is an amoebic infection that is potentially harmless, but some reports say that it can spread into the Fallopian tubes. For this reason, you have to visit your doctor as early as possible to find a cure.
Another cause of this smelly vaginal discharge is a forgotten tampon. This might be hard to believe but this happens to a number of women.
Some women forget to take out the tampon on the last day of their period and it festers during this time to cause a smelly discharge.
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In case of a smelly, brown discharge after period, there is the possibility that it’s caused by bacteria. It is now possible to find feminine washes on the market to get relief from this problem.
However, the best approach is to get a checkup done at a gynecologist’s clinic for the doctor to find the underlying cause of the smelly discharge.
You could be dealing with other complications if the discharge is occurring for one or more weeks after your menstrual period.
It cannot be stressed enough about how important it is to contact a doctor at the earliest possible time to avoid any serious health problems.
Vaginal Odor after Period – How to Get Rid Of It
As soon as you notice a vaginal odor after a menstrual period, you should take steps to ensure that you are following good hygiene habits. For prevention, it is important to bathe frequently and trim the pubic hairs.
You should not do excessive vaginal douching or stop doing it completely if you notice an offensive and persisting vaginal odor. It is also important to change your sanitary pads and tampons regularly when menstruating as well as to use a non-irritating brand.
Helpful Products For Preventing, Eliminating or Minimizing Vaginal Odor, Discharge and Itching
Here are some products which a lot of women found helpful for treating their vaginal odor:
RepHresh Vaginal Gel
This special lubricant comes with pre-filled applicators and has been shown to help maintain healthy vaginal pH, relieve feminine discomfort and eliminate feminine odor. A package will come with 4 pre-filled applicators and each one lasts for 3 days.
Click here for more info and reviews
WaterWorks Natural Vaginal Cleansing System
This is a natural and safe solution which helps to eliminate feminine odor.
This cleansing system uses stainless steel which in combination with running water is a recognized method of eliminating the volatile sulfur compounds (VSC) that cause vaginal odor.
Click here for more info and reviews
RepHresh Pro-B Probiotic Feminine Supplement
This is a probiotic feminine supplement which balances yeast and bacteria to maintain feminine health and helps you minimize smelly or excessive vaginal discharge. The dose is one capsule per day and a box will last you one month (30 days).
Click here for more info and reviews
pH-D Feminine Health Support
This is a homeopathic treatment which, according to the reviews, a lot of women find very helpful.
The main ingredient is Boric acid which has been confirmed through a clinical study as an effective natural defense against unbalanced vaginal pH.
Click here for more info and reviews
Renew Gentle Feminine Wash by Luxxx Beauty
This is a pH Balanced and gentle feminine wash with Cucumber and Aloe Vera for antimicrobial and antifungal properties.
It helps to minimize odor and reduces symptoms of infection. This wash is paraben free and safe for sensitive skin.
Click here for more info and reviews
Vagisil Feminine Wash with Odor Block Protection
Vagisil Feminine Wash will help you clean away odor and also keep it from happening in the first place.
Although a lot of women report that this product has helped them I have to warn you that it contains sodium laureth sulfate. If you’re sensitive to it or you’re trying to avoid it, choose another product.
Click here for more info and reviews
Monisat Stay Fresh Gel
This is a newer product that according to their site, keeps you fresh for 3 days. It’s a gel that coats the vaginal area to maintain a health vaginal pH.
They do state that it should be used in the 3 days before and after your period but not during your period for the best results.
If you are someone with recurrent odor (that is not an infection and has been evaluated by a doctor), this product might be for you.
Click here for more info and reviews
VH Essentials Vaginal Odor Treatment: pH Balanced Vaginal Tablet
This is a treatment that is inserted directly into the vagina and is stated to stimulate the body to regain and maintain the correct balance which can eliminate odor.
It is a 6-day treatment so plan on using it well before or after your period. It’s also recommended that you don’t have any sex during that time.
So if you and your partner don’t want to take that much time off, this might not be the treatment for you and you can try another one.
Click here for more info and reviews
Organic Glide Probiotic Natural Feminine Intimate Body Wash
If you feel that bacteria is the reason for the odor, this could be a good option to try. It’s organic and the probiotics can help to improve the immune system to positively affect the vagina and reduce and eliminate odor.
Safe enough for daily use. However, the current one is sold out on their site but you can always pick it up elsewhere (or have it shipped).
Click here for more info and reviews
A Natural Remedy
While there are plenty of options on the market as you can see above, some women want to also try the natural route. Apple Cider Vinegar or Baking Soda can be added to a warm bath.
The vinegar is an antibacterial and antiseptic while the baking soda can help balance the pH level (which sometimes causes the odor).
These are two products that many people have in their house generally and using them to help get rid of odor can be beneficial as well.
Speak With Your Doctor
Although the products listed above do help, keep in mind that in case of serious vaginal infections, you should consult a doctor to get the appropriate treatment such as antifungals or antibiotics.
You might need anti-fungal vaginal creams in case of vaginal thrush, so it’s best to consult your gynecologist or doctor before using any gel or cream internally.
You need to discontinue sexual activities if you notice pain and a smelly discharge.
Conclusion
It is important to know that menstrual cycle will play a part in the way how your vagina smells. In fact, it’s normal to have a musky (very pleasant) or mild odor around the mid-cycle, and a stronger odor immediately before and following your menses.
If you think that the smelly vaginal discharge is a problem, you should discuss the matter with your doctor to start getting treatment as soon as possible for the underlying cause.
References
- 1. https://flo.health/menstrual-cycle/health/vaginal-discharge/green-vaginal-discharge
Hello, I have a smelly and bloody discharge.Sometimes I get an uncomfortable itchy sensation which makes me shy away from some social events and night outings.This has been going on for a long time…I feel that I cannot easily conceive because of it though I have managed to have one child.I was told by my doctor that I have blood inside my vaginal tract while doing a routine pep smear.
Hello, Admin, Can I have your advice please? I have a very smelly whiteyellowish discharge after my period but not itching. What is this and what should I do? Thank you!
Hello,It’s normal to have a white/yellow vaginal discharge that does NOT have an odor (smell). Vaginal odor, itching, burning, pain and/or a different discharge are symptoms of an infection. If the smell is very bad see a doctor.
Hello, I’ve been having what was diagnosed as a yeast infection on and off for some months now. I took medication (pills) a number of times, including creams to be inserted into the vagina and it went away. It came back even worse and very embarrassing as my discharge had a bad odor, was yellowish n in particles /pieces and was accompanied by itching. It was so bad that if a lot of it came out at once it looked like a lot of strange yellow particles. Tired of taking meds, I sought out natural treatment methods & followed one that advised eating a little garlic daily. It’s working cuz the itching is gone n the discharge no longer comes w particles but now it has a color like faint traces of blood and smells like bloody meat. Please what do I do? I’m sick of this.
It’s always best to seek medical attention with an infection of this nature. If the medication that was prescribed is not working then you need to get a second opinion. The infection may seem to be clearing up but it may come back or even get worse – it seems that is what’s happening now. Please get a second opinion from another doctor.
I’ve had the nexplanon for almost two years I’ve noticed that when I do have a cycle now and it ends I have a clear discharge that has a blood odor has anyone else had this problem even if not using the birth control?
I too have been having an issue for the past 2 months. It occurs right after my period. It is not fishy. It is just foul. Kinda yeasty. Also there is a slight whitish discharge. I went to the Gyno both months and was given that pill for yeast infections and a gel to put inside. Problem goes right away! Now it’s month 63 and my period just ended and the smell is back. My Gyno said it could be hormonal bc I’m 33 and she said things change around my age. I just had my annual PAP smear and when I go in for the results I am gonna ask my Dr. Some more questions. She did tell me to stop using any summer’s eve products. Just plain old fashion ivory soap.
Breakdown: month 1 I DID have bv. Month 2 it was nothing. So I will bring it up again to her this month. I have a feeling it is hormonal. It’s just good to know others suffer from this. I would not recommend douching with anything unless your Dr OKs it. The yogurt tampon is a good idea. I am just baffled by this sudden change and it makes me feel gross. But as women I think its stuff we have to deal with!
I take birth control that is hormone base due to my PCOS, and I have only been on it for 3 months, but today I noticed that I have a weird smell, like it smells poisonous. I just finished my period yesterday and I was wondering if that could be from the birth control, I itch alot too but I usually do after my periods because I can only use pads so I assume that is from me sweating and getting a rash and itching, but the smell is new. Does anyone know what that could be?
Hello,This is not a sexually transmitted disease, but often requires antibiotics to treat. This often gives a “fishy” odor.– or a yeast infection can commonly occur. This often can occur after a new birth control pill and often gives a white discharge. Pads can also cause infection so if its its becoming worse see a doctor it is not something serious and can be treated.
Okay so i had a uti, got it treated than got a BV with my pH of 6!, so i went through half the medication (bc of a reaction in swelling of my face) but my symptoms of the BV were certainly gone but i didnt get to finish the last two days of the dosage. My period came, and the second day after it finished, BV smelly discharge came back!! I dont know what to do because i dont have the money to keep going back to the doctor thats goin to prescribe the same thing for the same outcome. Should i wait a day or two and see if the smell goes away? I use Vagisil to help with my PH but i need another plan ugh
Hi, I understand completely what your going through it can be a pain to want something to go away and it just wont. Here are some home remedies that may help you..
Tea tree oil contains natural antibacterial as well as antifungal compounds that help kill the germs that cause bacterial vaginosis. It will also combat the awful smell that is common with bacterial vaginosis.
Add a few drops of tea tree oil to a small bowl of warm water and stir it well. Use the solution to rinse your vagina. Do this once daily for three to four weeks.
Another option is to add three drops of tea tree oil and three cups of white vinegar to your lukewarm bath water and then soak in it for half an hour. Follow this remedy every other day for one to two months as needed.
Yogurt is one of the most common home remedies for bacterial vaginosis. Yogurt contains beneficial bacteria known as lactobacillus that help fight off bad bacteria and help maintain healthy vaginal pH balance.
Dip a cotton pad in yogurt and apply it on the affected area. Leave it on for half an hour and then wash the area thoroughly with fresh water. Repeat three times a day until your symptoms are gone.
You may also dip a tampon in yogurt and put it in the vagina for one to two hours. Do this twice daily until the symptoms completely disappear.
Also, eat two cups of plain yogurt daily to help restore the vagina’s normal pH balance and minimize the growth of bad bacteria.
An excellent home remedy for bacterial vaginosis is apple cider vinegar. Due to its acidic nature, apple cider vinegar helps increase vaginal acidity. This makes it difficult for bad bacteria to survive and creates a better environment for good bacteria to thrive.
Add one to two cups of apple cider vinegar to your bath water.
Sit in the bath water for about 20 minutes.
Gently pat dry the vaginal area.
Do this once daily until the condition improves.
This is very bad advice. UTIs, especially with accompanying BV, is mostly caused by E. coli…a bacteria that must be killed with an antibiotic. E. Coli is a bacteria that is natural to our digestive tract but causes chaos if it gets into other areas of the body. Because our vaginas & anuses are so close together, it’s very easy for E. coli to find its way from the anus into the vagina. To avoid these kinds of infections, make sure to always wipe front to back and wash regularly with a mild cleanser. Stop wearing thongs, especially g-strings. That little string acts as a perfect bridge for bacteria to make its way from your butthole to your vagina. Never go from anal play to vaginal play with your partner without washing in between or putting on a new condom. And once you smell the dreaded fish odor, it’s too late. See your doctor and get an antibiotic. E. Coli infections are bad and could be dangerous if it gets out of control. Yeast can be treated naturally with the above said remedies, bacterial infections require an antibiotic.
I have been having a very strong smell on the last couple of days towards the end of my cycle. This is new for me just started experiencing it this year and have no idea as to what triggered it. It usually start fading about a week after my period ends. Do you have any idea as to what might have trigger this since i never had it in the past?
Hi, Your vaginal odor changes all the time, varying throughout your cycle and naturally becoming more pungent during your period.However, if you notice a sharp change in the smell of your menstrual odor, it is best to contact your physician
I sometimes get this itchy feeling in my vagina weeks before my period., plus a fishy odor as well. Most times after my period I get this odor as well. Is this normal what can I do to eliminate this odor once and for all.
Hi, Sounds like a yeast infection,You can treat most vaginal yeast infections with an over-the-counter vaginal cream or suppository. You can buy these nonprescription vaginal creams and suppositories at most large drugstores and supermarkets. Many yeast infection treatment doses come in one-day, three-day, and seven-day strengths.
I dont know if this is normal but after my period comes i be noticing a thick white discharge coming out into my clothing and it kinda smells but its not strong but it only happens ever month and i want to know if that is normal? Please reply
Yes, it is normal for women to have a vaginal odor after a period. If the smell is unbearable and the discharge is yellow or green in colour than you need to consult your doctor because you may have an infection.
Hello, I’ve been having a lot of sharp & throbbing pain in my uterus that comes on randomly but it doesn’t feel like period cramps also I have very dark urine and smelly white discharge, sex is very painful as well, I gave birth about eight months ago and have been having this problem 3 months postpartum I’ve been putting off getting checked I just never have time and just seem to deal with it what should I do ?
Hi. You really should go see your doctor as soon as possible. It seems you have an infection that needs to be addressed before it gets any worse.
I get a fishy smell either a week before my period and or a week after my period then I goes away ! Also I am 6 weeks post partum and I just finish bleeding but I have a liner on because of the last remaining that’s coming down! But I notice a smell I went to the doctor everything was fine for my check up but is it normal?
Yes, it is normal to have a vaginal smell after a period. If you’re cleared by your doctor then you do not need to worry. Continue to monitor as the odor may change with your next period.
Hello, This sounds like a vaginal infection which is quite normal, it is best to visit your doctor so he can evaluate the problem and tell you which infection it is and also prescribe medication to stop it.
I had foul fishy odor for more than 5 years now that comes and goes. Im not comfortable to discuss it with a doctor. it became worst when i was diagnosed of hyperthyroidism. and now that im hypo, every month like one week before my period i feel feverish, chills at night, headache then the foul odor will start until after 2 weeks of my period. its like i will only have a foul-free days for 1 week then it will come back again… can a vaginal infection last for years?
Hello, This should be checked out by a doctor to prevent it from causing other serious problems,The odor could a lot of things like;bacterial vaginosis,yeast infection or even STD’s. A vaginal infection can last for years which can cause other problems so even though its uncomfortable to talk about its better to visit a doctor and get treated.
Hi…please I have a very smelly thick whitish discharge after my period and sometimes it stains and smells on my cloth..and sometimes I have itching, what should I do?
i have almost the same problem wunder..I’m just looking out for anyone that might have that kind of problem and dealt with it
Sounds like a mild yeast infection.
I have irregular periods as in sometimes they come 3 days late, 3 days early or even 15 days late that last 6-7 days, and a heavy flow the first 3-4 and the last 2 are a odorus medium brown discharge (I don’t know if this is menstruation or something else) that I can smell through clothing. I have gone to the doctor about it 2 years ago and I’m not sure what he was testing for but apparently a swab that I took came back with nothing to worry about. but I still get this odor? I’m a teenager, and never had sex before. Do I need to buy a vaginal wash? Is it a bacterial thing? or do I just have a really smelly after period? Do I need to buy a vaginal wash? Thanks if you answer this.
It seems you have a vaginal infection. You need to consult a gynecologist to confirm the type of infection that you have – seem to be bacterial. You will require treatment. Vaginal washes will only make the infection worse.