Have you recently noticed a funky smell “down there?” Wondering if it’s pregnancy-related and if it’s normal or not? Show
Your body goes through some crazy changes during pregnancy, some of which you would never have guessed. You knew your vagina was going to have to stretch to push out a baby, but you probably didn’t know you’d acquire a whole new aroma down there. In this article, we will talk all about vaginal odor during pregnancy, what causes it, when you should see your doctor, and how to eliminate the smell. Table of Contents
Is Vaginal Odor Normal During Pregnancy?Even though it can be unpleasant and embarrassing, vaginal odor is actually quite normal during pregnancy. Around 65 percent of women report they have experienced vaginal odor throughout their pregnancies. Vaginal odor can even be one of the first symptoms of pregnancy. If the aroma started after you conceived, it is most likely pregnancy-related. Your odor can range from faint to very strong and is usually nothing to worry about. But remember that every pregnancy is different. You may experience vaginal odor throughout this entire pregnancy and then have none with the next. The odor may also be more apparent during certain trimesters. Causes Of Vaginal Odor During PregnancyThere are various reasons why you may be experiencing vaginal odor during pregnancy.
Editor's Note: Caitlin Goodwin, MSN, RN, CNMLet’s take a look at some of the most common causes:
You Might Also Like Body Odor During Pregnancy: Causes & Remedies When Should I Call the Doctor?While vaginal odor is often completely normal during pregnancy because of hormones, increased blood volume, or diet, sometimes it can be a sign of an infection or virus. It’s best to contact your healthcare provider if you have a pungent vaginal odor that lasts for an extended period or if it’s coupled with any of the following:
Your doctor will examine a sample of your vaginal fluid and cervical secretions to see if you have an infection. I know you may feel quite embarrassed by this newfound smell, but don’t worry, there is no need to be. Midwives and OBs have pretty much seen it all. If you have a yeast infection, your provider will most likely prescribe or recommend an over-the-counter antifungal cream. If your vagina or vaginal discharge has a particular “fishy” smell to it, it’s likely you have bacterial vaginosis and will be put on a course of antibiotics to clear up the infection. Urgent It’s critical to see your medical provider if you think you may have BV, as it has been associated with certain pregnancy complications such as preterm labor, low baby birth weight, premature rupture of membranes, and uterine infection after delivery. How to Get Rid of Vaginal OdorIf all your tests come back negative for yeast infections, bacterial infections, and STDs, your changing hormones are probably responsible for the odor. It will most likely go away once your baby is born. Until then, remember that less is more when it comes to cleaning yourself. Fun Fact Your vagina cleans itself. It’s lined by a variety of glands that lubricate and cleanse the area. There is no need to force any bath product or water into your vagina (4). In the meantime, you can try some of these techniques to help eliminate the smell:
Editor's Note: Caitlin Goodwin, MSN, RN, CNMTo Sum it UpYour new vaginal aroma may be unpleasant and embarrassing, but remember that you are not alone, mama. Vaginal odor is actually quite common during pregnancy and is often just due to hormones. It will probably vanish after your baby is born. However, the odor can sometimes be a sign of an infection, so be sure to watch out for any “fishy” scent, burning, irritation, or redness. Otherwise, practicing proper hygiene, using cotton undies and pantyliners, avoiding douching and scented soaps, and changing your diet will help reduce the funk. Why can I smell period blood when I'm not on my period?A person might notice a fishy smell during their period and also outside of menstruation. This smell is often related to an infection, such as bacterial vaginosis or trichomoniasis. Bacterial vaginosis is a common vaginal infection caused by an overgrowth of bacteria in the vagina.
Why does it smell like I'm on my period?The strong smell is likely due to the blood and tissues exiting the vagina along with bacteria. It's normal for the vagina to have bacteria, though the amount can fluctuate. The resulting “rotten” smell from bacteria mixed with menstrual flow shouldn't be strong enough for others to detect.
Does VAG smell different in early pregnancy?A change or increase in odor — while likely occurring because of your fluctuating hormones — may also seem more pungent to you because your olfactory senses are also heightened during pregnancy.
What does pregnant discharge smell like?Normal secretions during a healthy pregnancy are typically thin and white and do not smell foul or fishy. Sometimes however, the discharge is the result of an infection or other problem. So, for example, if you see thick white chunky discharge, that could be a yeast infection.
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