Many women experience a fishy vaginal odor at times, and it’s not always a cause for concern. Sometimes simply putting on clean underwear after bathing is enough. However, if the smell persists despite good hygiene or appears with itching, pain, or unusual discharge, it’s best to see a gynecologist.
The most common cause is bacterial vaginosis, which occurs when vaginal bacteria become unbalanced and usually requires antibiotics. Other possible causes include poor hygiene, trapped sweat, tight clothing, trichomoniasis (an STI), or forgetting a tampon. To help prevent odor, keep good hygiene, avoid douching and scented products, wear cotton underwear, practice safe sex, and ask your doctor about probiotics. Feel free to share with others who may find it helpful.