Ask A Sexpert: Is it normal for my vagina to smell during sex?

Got a burning (no pun intended) sex-related issue you want answered? In Ask A Sexpert, our resident spicy expert Jacqueline Kee of sexual wellness brands Genvie and Hedonist answers all your questions. Still looking for answers? Email us your questions at herworldsocial@sph.com.sg.

Is it normal for my vagina to smell during sex?

Oh, definitely! A little odour during sex is completely normal, it’s just your body doing its thing. Your vagina has its own distinct scent, which can vary depending on factors like your menstrual cycle, diet, and even the time of day. The scent might be more noticeable during sex due to increased moisture and the mixing of different body fluids (we’ll get into more details about that in a bit), but rest assured—you’re not alone! I recently ran a poll with Hedonist, and guess what? Over 70% of women shared that they’ve worried about vaginal odour at some point. So, what’s considered a “normal” scent, and when should you be concerned? Well, let me break it down for you.

Understanding vaginal odour

First off, your vagina is like its own little ecosystem, with a pH level between about 3.8 and 4.5. This slightly acidic balance keeps the right bacteria in check and prevents unwanted microorganisms from taking over. As we talked about, the scent can be influenced by things like your menstrual cycle, diet, and hygiene habits. For example, during ovulation, the scent (and even the taste, for those into cunnilingus) might change. Plus, foods like garlic, onions, or spicy dishes can also affect how you smell down there—proving once again that you are what you eat!

Normal vaginal odors

Vaginal odors can be a natural part of your body’s process, and many changes in scent are completely normal. These variations often stem from temporary shifts in your vaginal pH balance. Here’s a breakdown of what you might notice:

Mild musky or earthy: Your natural scent might come across as a bit musky or earthy. This is often thanks to the friendly bacteria in your vaginal microbiome.

Slightly sweet: Sometimes, you might notice a faintly sweet scent. This can be due to your diet or hormonal shifts—like when estrogen levels rise around ovulation, giving off a sweeter aroma.

Ammonia-Like: Occasionally, you might pick up a scent that reminds you of ammonia. This can happen if there’s some urine residue or if you’re dehydrated, leading to a more concentrated smell.

Metallic: During your period or around ovulation, a metallic smell might pop up, kind of like copper coins. This is usually due to blood and changes in discharge, which can alter the scent temporarily.

Resembles the scent of body odour: Sometimes, your vaginal scent might remind you of body odor, especially if you’re sweating more or feeling stressed but with good hygiene, that can be easily maintained.

Slightly sour or tangy: A light, tangy smell can sometimes occur, especially if there’s an increase in vaginal discharge or if you’ve been sweating more than usual. This tangy scent can be a natural part of your body’s response to changes in discharge or hygiene.

When to be concerned

A slight odor is usually nothing to stress about. But if your vaginal pH gets out of balance, it could lead to bacterial vaginosis (BV) or yeast infections, which could cause a stronger, fishy smell and uncomfortable discharge. If that happens, know that it’s pretty common, affecting about 1 in 3 women at some point in their lives. The good news though… It’s treatable! You’d likely need a course of antibiotics and your vjay will be on temporary downtime, but it’s definitely something that can be sorted out.

Here’s a fun fact: Remember how I mentioned the vagina’s pH is around 3.8 to 4.5? Well, semen is usually a bit more alkaline, with a pH of about 7.2 to 8.0. So, during sex, that alkaline semen can briefly raise the vaginal pH, making it less acidic. While a short-term pH shift isn’t usually a big deal, if it happens frequently, it might disrupt the vaginal flora and potentially lead to issues like bacterial vaginosis or yeast infections.

Abnormal vaginal odours

Strong fishy: If you notice a potent, fishy odor, it might be a sign of BV. It’s similar to the smell of fish that’s been left out too long. Also, you might notice it more especially after sex. Another common symptom is the gray or grayish-white discharge that comes with.

Yeast-like or bread-like: A smell reminiscent of baking bread or dough could indicate a yeast infection, often accompanied by thick, white discharge and itching.

Rotten or decayed: A foul, rotten smell might suggest an infection or an issue like an old tampon that’s been left in too long.

Chemical or soapy: A chemical or soapy odor might result from using scented soaps or hygiene products that disrupt the natural balance of your vaginal flora.

Safe hygiene practices for vaginal health

Keeping your vaginal environment healthy is all about adopting smart hygiene habits that prevent infections and keep you feeling great. So here’s how you can make sure everything stays balanced and comfortable:

Practice good hygiene: Wash your vulva with mild, unscented soap and water. This keeps things fresh and balanced without disrupting your natural pH.

Avoid douching: Despite the allure of fancy, scented washes, douching can actually mess with your vaginal pH. The vagina is home to good bacteria (like Lactobacilli) that help protect against infections. Douching can wash away these beneficial bacteria, leaving you more susceptible to infections like bacterial vaginosis or yeast infections. So stick to gentle products and skip the floral fragrances to keep things in harmony.

Wear breathable fabrics: Choose cotton underwear and avoid tight-fitting clothing. Breathable fabrics help keep the area dry and prevent excess moisture that can lead to discomfort or infections.

Stay hydrated: Drinking plenty of water supports overall health and a balanced vaginal environment. And if you’re in for a sexy marathon, staying hydrated helps maintain natural vaginal lubrication, reducing discomfort during sex. Dehydration can lead to dryness, which can make intercourse less enjoyable and potentially painful.

Use protection: Condoms are not just for preventing STIs and pregnancy—they also help reduce the risk of introducing new bacteria and maintain a balanced pH during sex.

Consider probiotics: Research suggests that probiotics, especially those with Lactobacillus, can help keep your vaginal flora in check, promoting a healthy balance of bacteria.

Getting to know what’s normal for you can really help ease your mind. If something feels off or you’re worried, don’t hesitate to reach out to a healthcare professional. Your body and its unique scent are all part of what makes you, well, you! So, be kind to yourself and embrace your individuality with pride.