Problems related to vagina are very private, personal and sensitive issues.
I used to think that it would be impossible to discuss the topic of my fishy smelling vaginal odor with others.
I was proved wrong when this subject came up for discussion during coffee break at work.
Contrary to what I thought fishy smelling vaginal odor is something that most women suffer from at some point of time or the other during their reproductive years.
Due to sheer embarrassment, women feel awkward to educate themselves about the causes of the foul odor and methods they can adopt to prevent it.
In this article I am going to summarize the discussion I had with my colleagues for the benefit of women suffering from this chronic problem.
What causes vaginal odor? The major causes of a smelly vagina include 1.
Bacterial vaginosis BV is one of the common causes of vaginal odor.
2.
Change of sexual partners could also be the reason for your smell.
This happens because of the semen coming in contact with the female fluid during intercourse which can potentially alter the natural smell of your vagina.
3.
Over douching, especially with scented douches can also be the reason for the odor.
Although it many not be the primary reason, it can aggravate an existing problem by disturbing the natural pH balance of the vagina.
4.
At times women experience smelly vagina during their periods.
5.
In case you forget to remove a saturated tampon it can cause infection and the pungent vaginal odor.
6.
Hormonal changes which occur before the onset of your monthly cycle or pregnancy can also be a contributing factor.
7.
Antibiotics and steroids can cause the normal vaginal flora to be disturbed resulting in the odor.
You can prevent the odor with simple home tips 1.
Wear clean tampons and change them regularly.
Even if your menstrual flow is light ensure that you keep changing your sanitary protection at regular intervals.
2.
Avoid douching which can strip the vagina of its natural lubricants.
3.
Avoid wearing tight underwear and pants to enable the vagina to breathe freely.
Switch over to cotton underwear which absorb well and ensure proper air circulation.
4.
Always wipe from front to back.
This will prevent harmful bacteria from the rectal area entering the vagina.
5.
Apple cider vinegar is slightly acidic in nature and very effective in getting rid of the fishy smelling vaginal odor.
The best way to use it is to dip a tampon in a diluted apple cider vinegar and insert into your vagina.
Let it remain there for an hour or so.
You will be required to dilute 1 tablespoon vinegar in 4 ounces of water.