A fishy or unusual vaginal odor isn’t always a cause for concern. But if you’re experiencing itching, pain, or other unexpected symptoms, it could point to an underlying condition like bacterial vaginosis.
A healthy vulva and vagina may smell a bit like blood or copper, somewhat salty or sweet, or musky. A fishy odor may even happen from time to time with no underlying cause.
In many cases, changing into a fresh pair of underwear after a bath or shower is enough to restore your usual odor.
An odor that lingers after a thorough wash or occurs alongside other unusual symptoms could warrant an appointment with a doctor or other healthcare professional.
Vaginal discharge, for example, is typically clear or slightly cloudy with a sticky, stringy consistency. It might be closer to white than clear in the days leading up to menstruation.
Discharge tinged with gray, yellow, or green could point to an underlying infection, especially when coupled with an unpleasant odor, itching, or burning.
What can cause a fishy vaginal odor?
Bacterial vaginosis
A lingering change in odor — particularly a foul or fishy scent — is most commonlyTrusted Source caused by bacterial vaginosis.
Your body naturally contains a wide variety of bacteria, and your vulva and vagina are no exception. Although the body can usually maintain this delicate of bacteria, unexpected fluctuations can increase the risk of infection.
Bacterial vaginosis can develop in response to an overgrowth of certain bacteria, however the exact cause is unclear. You may be more likelyTrusted Source to develop bacterial vaginosis if you:
- are of reproductive age
- have recently engaged in sexual activity with a new partner
- have recently engaged in sexual activity without a barrier method
- smoke cigarettes
- douche
Other symptoms of bacterial vaginosis include:
- thin vaginal discharge that’s gray, white, or green
- strong vaginal odor after sexual activity
- pain during or after penetrative sex
- pain or burning during urination
- itching in or around the vagina
Trichomoniasis
Trichomoniasis is a sexually transmitted infection (STI) caused by the Trichomonas vaginalis parasite.
People who have penises are generally asymptomatic, whereas people who have vulvas often experienceTrusted Source symptoms.
In addition to a foul or fishy vaginal odor, trichomoniasis can cause:
- increased vaginal discharge
- foamy or frothy discharge
- white, yellow, or green discharge
- pain during or after penetrative sex
- pain or burning during urination
- itching in or around the vagina
- redness around the vaginal opening
Dehydration
If you tend to notice the odor after you urinate, it could be a sign of dehydration.
Urine is primarily made up of water, with a small percentage of urea and other waste. If you aren’t well hydrated, waste may be more pungent than usual.
Urea, for example, is a byproduct of ammonia. It’s often associated with a chemical-like smell, though some may describe it as fishy.
Sweat
Sweat-related body odor is often described as skunky, but this is ultimately subject to interpretation.
Consider your recent activity levels — anything from lugging groceries up the stairs to lifting weights in the gym — and when you last washed up or changed your clothes.
Your overall temperature, the fit and fabric of your clothes, and the weather outside can also contribute to genital sweating.
An uptick in stress or an unrelated illness, like food poisoning, can also cause excess sweat.
Hygiene
So-called “feminine” hygiene products, like scented sprays and suppositories, can temporarily disrupt your overall vaginal pH.
This can result in inflammation and irritation that may, in turn, lead to the overgrowth of odor-causing bacteria.
Practices like douching and steaming can also alter the vagina’s natural microbiome, increasing your risk of injury or infection.
Sexual activity
Solo or partnered play, with or without vaginal penetration, can also spur an unexpected change in scent. Condoms and lube, for example, can affect your vaginal pH. So can the exchange of bodily fluids.
Sex toys and other erotic aids can also introduce bacteria, particularly when shared or improperly cleaned.
Bacterial vaginosis and other underlying infections can exacerbate these symptoms, making your post-sex smell more pungent than usual.
Trimethylaminuria
In rare cases, a fishy odor may be the result of an inherited condition called trimethylaminuria.
Your body naturally produces trimethylamine (TMA) when breaking down certain foods. The strong-smelling chemical generally breaks down into a less fragrant compound, allowing your body to excrete TMA without notice.
People who have trimethylaminuria are unable to process TMA as expected. This can cause your breath, sweat, urine, or vaginal secretions to smell rotten or fishy.
The smell may intensify with hormonal fluctuations, including menstruation and menopause.
When should you consult with a doctor or other healthcare professional?
If you’ve had a prior bacterial vaginosis infection, you might be comfortable using an at-home test to assess your current symptoms.
You might also feel comfortable using an at-home STI test to check for trichomoniasis. This usually involves taking a blood or urine sample to send to a lab. A healthcare professional will likely reach out to discuss a positive STI result.
If you’re uncomfortable with at-home testing or unsure of your symptoms, it’s important to consult with a doctor or other healthcare professional.
The following symptoms typically require medical intervention:
- strong vaginal odor after sexual activity
- gray, yellow, or green vaginal discharge
- foamy, frothy, or increased vaginal discharge
- soreness, burning, or itching
Your clinician will ask you questions about your symptoms, your medical history, and recent sexual activity to help identify the potential cause.
They’ll likely perform a pelvic exam to check for inflammation and other abnormalities. Your clinician may also swab inside the vagina to take a fluid sample for lab testing. They may also ask you to provide a urine sample.
If you aren’t experiencing symptoms but have concerns about your scent, consult with a gynecologist or other healthcare professional. They can answer any questions you may have and may be able to set your mind at ease.
