Flowers aren’t one of the many things that a healthy vagina smells like. Yeah, we’ve seen those scented tampons ads, too.
And it appears that all that flowery is just another example of the world getting vaginas wrong.
The truth is that billions of germs live in your vagina.
These fragrance changes are most likely caused by your menstrual cycle, hygiene habits, or simply being you.
The following is a medically correct guide to vaginal smells.
1. Fermented or tangy
The smell of acidic or sour vaginal discharge is fairly prevalent.
It has been compared to the scent of fermented foods by others. Lactobacilli, a type of beneficial bacteria found in yogurt, sourdough bread, and even certain sour beer, are present in most healthy vaginal environments.
The causes of a tangy odor
• Acidity.
A healthy vaginal pH is somewhat acidic, ranging between 3.8 and 4.5. According to Minkin, “the Lactobacilli bacteria keep the vagina acidic.” “This guards against the overgrowth of harmful germs.”
2. Coppery like a penny
A coppery, metallic odor has been reported by many women.
It rarely indicates a more significant issue.
The causes of a coppery odor
• Blood.
Iron, which has a metallic odor, is found in blood.
• Sex.
After sex, light bleeding is common. This is sometimes caused by vaginal dryness or vigorous sex, which can result in minor cuts or scrapes.
3. Sweet like molasses
We don’t mean freshly made cookies when we say sweet. We’re talking about strong and earthy. But don’t worry, a sweetish tinge is nothing to be concerned about.
The origins of a sweet odor
• Bacteria.
The bacterial habitat in your vaginal pH is always changing. And this can make you smell a little sweet at times.
4. Chemical like a newly cleaned bathroom
An odor that smells like bleach or ammonia could be one of several problems. This odor can be a sign that you should see a doctor.
The causes of a chemical odor
• Urine.
Urine contains urea, which is an ammonia waste. A chemical odor could come from a buildup of urine in your underwear or around your vulva.
Keep in mind that ammonia-smelling urine indicates dehydration.
•Bacterial vaginosis
A chemical-like odor could potentially be an indication of bacterial vaginosis. “A chemical odor is frequently classified as fishy,” adds Minkin.
5. Skunky like BO or a smoked herbal, earthy scent
The causes of a skunky odor
• Emotional tension.
Sweat glands are divided into two types: apocrine and eccrine.
Sweat is produced by the eccrine glands to keep your body cool, while the apocrine glands react to your emotions. Apocrine glands can be found in your armpits and, yes, your crotch.
The apocrine glands create a milky fluid when you are agitated or concerned. This fluid has no odor on its own.
