What the smell of your vagina tells you about your body

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While it’s perfectly natural for your vagina to have some sort of aroma, certain vaginal odors can indicate a serious infection — particularly when accompanied by a change in colour, amount, or consistency of vaginal discharge. Here are the smells you need to be aware of to assess whether you’re in need of medical treatment:

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1. Musky

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When your vagina is healthy, its scent can vay based on your activity level. For instance, after a super-intense exercise class, you may notice a stronger, muskier smell due to its moisture released by sweat glands. This is 100% normal!

2. Sweet

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This all depends on your diet, In theory, your diet can affect the taste and scent of your vagina. For instance, citrus fruits like oranges, pineapple, and grapefruit have been known to sweeten the smell and taste of vaginal fluids. 

3. Tinny

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If your vagina seems to smell a bit off or vaguely metallic when you get your period, don't sound the alarm bells. When you have your period, the blood can mix with the natural state of a healthy vagina and give off a different - but typically normal - smell.

4. Yeasty

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While there's normally a small amount of yeast present inside your vagina, yeast infections occur when there's an overgrowth due to antibiotic use, or even pregnancy. If you notice a faint, bread-like smell along with cottage cheese-like discharge, see a doctor STAT!

5. Bleachy

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Lubricants or condoms can contribute to this smell, which most women liked to chlorine or bleach. Luckily, it's nothing to  be worried about - just restock your sex drawer if these scents bother you.

6. Fishy

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If your vagina gives off a strong, fishy odor that smells foul, chances are you're suffering from an infection. Please see a doctor immediately and avoid douching, it'll just make things worse. Trust us!

This story was first published at The Singapore's Women's Weekly.

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