Women have a tendency to have slight and mild vaginal odor on the vagina. It is normal for this body part to have a mild, musky smell.
Indeed, research suggests that this odor is partially due to pheromones that can increase sexual attractiveness and subtly communicate information about fertility.
Every vagina has a unique scent, based on how your body operates. The most common factors that contribute to vaginal odor are standard bodily functions: our pH, diet, hormones, sweat, hair growth, and of course, menstrual cycle.
It is common for some of us to be self-conscious about our vaginal odor, which can affect self-esteem and body image. Ok, the abnormal vaginal odor can leave you feeling uncomfortable, but it’s nothing to be embarrassed about. Think of this: when have you ever noticed another female’s vaginal smell? Chances are, you haven’t.
It changes with hormonal shifts during pregnancy, menopause, and the menstrual cycle. So a subtle smell is not a cause for concern. Some other odors, however, warrant a call to a doctor. Intensifying odor from your vagina can indicate infection or illness. Read on to learn how to treat yourself for a healthy vagina. And remember to consult with your healthcare provider if you think your vaginal scent or discharge is abnormal.
# 1 Practice Safe, Gentle Vaginal Hygiene
Practice good vaginal hygiene and use water every time you use a toilet. Avoid using douches.
Wash your vagina with clean water using an unscented soap or unscented feminine wash 3-4 times a day and keep the vaginal area clean and dry. Use a gentle, fragrance-free soap on the vulva only. Inserting soap into the vagina can alter vaginal pH, causing infections and a foul odor. Various fragrance-free products can be purchased online.
#2 Give Your Vagina Plenty of Water
Your vagina needs water, ladies.
The mucous vaginal membranes need water to function properly so that they remain well-hydrated. Water helps lubricate your vagina naturally, which aids in diminishing vaginal smells. It also eliminates the excess sugars from your body that act as breeding grounds for the bacteria and other micro-organisms known to cause vaginal odor. So, water will flush out toxins from your body and help keep things clean down there.
By increasing your fluid intake, you flush off the harmful bacteria from your body naturally and effectively. Drink at least 8–9 glasses of plain water every single day to keep your body, including your down below, hydrated and free from dryness.
#3 Wear Loose Clothing and Cotton Underwear
Satin, silk and polyester panties can retain moisture, upsetting your natural bacteria levels and leading to foul odors. Wearing cotton underwear increases airflow to your groin, especially when you are working out or sweating, and prevent moisture buildup, which can then reduce any odors due to sweating or bacteria.
Also, change out of your workout clothing as soon as you are finished your workout. Do not keep wet, sweaty clothes on any longer than necessary, as this can lead to unpleasant odors. Remember to wear clean underwear every day to prevent bacteria growth and odor.
# 4 Let Panty Liners Conceal It
While going out, use a panty liner to keep your panty clean and dry. Panty liners are effective in masking the vaginal odor to a great extent. Change the liners as required. And check out our options for ECO certified liners here.
#5 Take Some Probiotics
We all love probiotics, since they can help keep the gut healthy, but did you know that they can also do wonders for vaginal odor? Miso, kimchi, sauerkraut, yogurt and kefir are all great options. Probiotic yogurt, for example, is rich in lactobacillus bacteria, which helps fight candida infection, a common cause of vaginal odor. The probiotics in yogurt will help balance your pH and prevent the overgrowth of harmful bacteria that cause odors. It also helps restore the normal vaginal pH level, which can remove the odor.
