how to get rid of period smell after period

This article was co-authored by Carrie Noriega, MD. It is a quite annoying problem and can lead to major discomfort and embarrassment during intimate moments. Some of them aren't anything to worry about. If you experience spotting instead of your normal period, it could be due to a number of different things. Other signs and symptoms of early pregnancy include: While brown discharge after a period by itself usually isnt a big deal, it could indicate a problem when accompanied by other symptoms. Avoid scented products Other times brown discharge after a period is old blood from a previous period. Period blood has a high pH, which can tip the balance and allow bad bacteria to move in, pushing out the kind you want, Streicher says. It is also greatly effective in fighting from various multiple toxins that can result in serious infections. Try switching to a menstrual cup or tampon during your period, but be sure to change them. She specializes in womens health, rheumatology, pulmonology, infectious disease, and gastroenterology. As a small thank you, wed like to offer you a $30 gift card (valid at GoNift.com). I noticed that there was a brownish fishy-smelling discharge after period. The user removes the cup every four to 12 hours, pours the collected blood into the toilet or sink, and washes the cup before reinserting. We use cookies to make wikiHow great. Any body odor can be problematic for anyone who wants to be around other people. The Best Period Underwear Options for Any Situation, COVID-19 Vaccine May Cause Temporary, Minor Disruptions in Menstrual Cycle. Hence, prompt medical attention and treatment is important. Is there a way to get rid of old blood after period. If you have tried all of the things in this article for your vaginal odor, then you might want to consider seeing a doctor to be checked for an infection. Healthline Media does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Take a bath or shower, even if you've already bathed that day. Smelly, brown discharge: If you experience smelly, brown discharge after menses, then it is quite possible that it is caused by some bacteria. Baby wipes are made for an infant's sensitive skin, so they should not sting, but discontinue use if they burn, itch, sting, or you get an infection. Some females forget the tampon in its place during the last day of menses and the tampon festers leading to a smelly vaginal discharge. I'm a believer in healthy living. (2018). Keep a period bag with you containing spare pads/tampons/cups, change of underwear, plastic bags to put used products, and whatever else you may need. Normal smells are nothing to be concerned about, and small changes in scent should resolve themselves. This article was co-authored by Carrie Noriega, MD. Last Updated: June 12, 2021 Bacterial vaginosis: CDC fact sheet. Smelly greenish discharge: If you have strong smelly greenish discharge after periods then it is possible that you are suffering from trichomoniasis caused by infection with Trichomonas vaginalis. Your first period can start at any time but might be accompanied by sore breasts, mood swings, or pain in your lower abdominal muscles called cramps. The more blood that collects in one place and comes into contact with air, the stronger your odor will be. Also see a doctor if you think you might be pregnant or have other concerning symptoms, such as: If you dont already have an OBGYN, you can browse doctors in your area through the Healthline FindCare tool. You should seek professional medical help if you notice an abrupt change in your vaginal odor. If not removed, bad bacteria can move up to bladder leading to infections. Other odor changes during your period can include a sweaty gym smell or an odor of onions or salt. Take particular care with what you wear to bed. When you douche you are spraying water or another solution into your vagina to rinse it out and make it "clean.". Thanks wikiHow for educating me on how to stay fresh during my periods!!! Board Certified Obstetrician & Gynecologist. 1,591 satisfied customers. Typically, you should seek medical attention for vaginal odor if it is fishy or different from normal. You shouldnt douche either, as the process can get rid of healthy vaginal bacteria and lead to infection. There are several home remedies available to get rid of the vaginal discharge and odor. Some sexually transmitted infections (STIs) can cause brown discharge or spotting outside of your period. Many period underwear has antibacterial properties to reduce the odour and bacteria, but if they do smell, Wuka advise diluting white vinegar in a thin layer of water (1 part vinegar, 3 parts water - just enough to cover your underwear) and soaking your underwear for 20 minutes. Tight clothes irritate the vagina, thereby, increasing the smell from the vagina. The procedure should be repeated at least 2 times a week to restore the pH of the vagina and reduce any discharge and odors. All rights reserved. Allow this to boil for 10 minutes and turn off the stove. If you are really worried, or have been experiencing PMS, bring pads or tampons and extra underwear to school. You should also avoid wearing thongs during your period, which can transfer bacteria from your anus to your vagina and cause infections. Gray/off-white creamy discharge that smells fishy: If the smelly discharge after period is off-white or gray in color, is creamy and smells fishy, then it could be from bacterial vaginosis. Often, vaginal odor doesnt come from the vagina at all. Eating too much sugar can also lead to an overproduction of yeast. Excessive flesh around the folds and inner thighs due to being overweight can be a breeding ground for bacteria. VH Essentials Vaginal Odor Treatment: pH Balanced Vaginal Tablet. There are plenty of non-scented products out there, and some, such as reusable cotton pads, often avoid the toxic chemicals commonly associated with the disposable pads and tampons, though there are some disposable pads and tampons that don't have the harmful chemicals, and may be available in your local health food store. These include: Other common symptoms to look out for include: If you miss a period, you may have brownish discharge in place of a regular period or have it sometime after your period would have ended. There are 8 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page. Its normal for menstrual periods to have a slight odor. A period so heavy that it prevents you from doing everyday activities isnt, A menstrual period is vaginal bleeding that occurs at the end of the monthly menstrual cycle. All rights reserved. This occurs when the natural balance of bacteria in the vagina is altered by the hormonal changes, leading to multiplication of the fungi. If you have other worrying symptoms or theres a chance you could be pregnant or miscarrying, make an appointment to see a doctor. Learn more about some of the common odors associated with periods, and which symptoms warrant a doctors visit. Wash thoroughly to remove any fluid. Use the recommended amount of detergent and be sure you wash everything, including your underwear, daily. a warm compress for 10 to 15 minutes at a time, three or four times a day to soothe pain and help draw out pus. While the exact cause of this overgrowth isnt understood, bacterial vaginosis seems to be most common in women who are sexually active. Others have brown discharge that comes and goes for a week or two. Healthy periods can have a slight smell of blood. wikiHow marks an article as reader-approved once it receives enough positive feedback. Once the bacteria is balanced out after treatment, you should no longer notice any unusual smells or other symptoms during your period. Replens vaginal moisturizers and lubes claim to help with symptoms of vaginal dryness but do these products actually work? Take showers daily. All texts are contributed by our excellent writers. Consider wearing no underwear or basic cotton.Avoid tight underwear, pantyhose, and girdles. If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. Labiaplasty recovery has several different phases, each marked by its own set of sensations and activity guidelines. So, what's a girl to do? It doesn't smell the greatest, and it's stressing me out. This scent is usually mild enough that others can't smell it through your clothes, but you'll be able to smell it when you use the bathroom or change your clothes. Its a fairly common practice, but doctors recommend against it. Get tested for vaginal infections if your odor persists or is very strong. Bathe regularly to prevent future odors of this type. Period blood usually has some odor, but if you notice brown discharge with a strong odor, an STI is the most likely cause. Smegma can occur in uncircumcised males, causing dead skin cells, fluids, and oils to build up. Itching can also indicate that you may have an infection. It will help reduce the odor and bacteria for a long duration. She also authors blogs on nail art blog and women's self esteem. Trichomoniasis is an amoebic infection that is potentially harmless. You can learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate and current by reading our. When blood comes in contact with air, it takes on its own scent. Let it sit for a few hours to overnight, then wash on warm with your regular detergent. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. ago. It is so nice to have someone/thing to. Maintain personal hygiene by bathing regularly and trimming pubic hairs. The 10 Best Cooling Weighted Blankets, FTW! Your Privacy Choices: Opt Out of Sale/Targeted Ads. If you are wearing a tampon and may be concerned about leaking, simply wear a thin liner in addition to the tampon. This will also reduce the sweat in the area, which can increase the menstrual odor. Then pop them in the wash with more vinegar, and/or add a few . You may also experience missed periods followed by brown discharge if youve recently started using a new hormonal birth control. If you want to use food to maintain a healthy vaginal pH, try eating foods like sauerkraut, probiotic yogurt and kimchi, and drinking kombucha. Instead of using perfume to mask. Black, Brown, Bright Red, and More: What Does Each Period Blood Color Mean? Just urinate to clear foreign substances. Yoghurt will help in restoring the pH of the vagina, reducing the vaginal discharge after period and preventing its recurrence. Thanks to all authors for creating a page that has been read 679,244 times. Sometimes the bleeding and cramps caused by miscarriage are mistaken for a period. It could just be that some menstrual fluid is hanging around due to a heavy or thick flow. We avoid using tertiary references. Healthline has strict sourcing guidelines and relies on peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions, and medical associations. STD Facts - Trichomoniasis. Your period blood is actually to blame. By choosing the right menstrual products for your body, maintaining proper hygiene, and preparing for your period, you can decrease the overall menstrual odor. wikiHow is where trusted research and expert knowledge come together. Schedule an appointment with your doctor to discuss antibiotic treatments to stop the infection. For instance wearing gauchos, skirts, or loose shorts or pants, instead of tight-fitting jeans or pants, can make your genital area more airy. You may not believe this but this is quite common in a large number of females. Because the odor has nothing to do with hygiene, says Lauren Streicher, M.D., Medical Director of the Northwestern Medicine Center for Sexual Medicine and Menopause. Higher levels of male hormones cause irregular periods and sometimes no period at all. The blood from a miscarriage can be red, but it can also be brown and resemble coffee grounds. // Leaf Group Lifestyle, How to Freshen Yourself After Menstrual Cycle, These Foods Will Make Your Vagina Smell Bad, How to Get Rid of Vaginal Odor Without Going to the Doctor, Eastern Carolina University Family Practice Center: Menstruation Facts. The market has, in turn, responded by developing menstrual products that focus on convenience. If you wear tampons and notice a strong odor, you may wish to check for a retained tampon. Use unscented baby wipes for a quick way to freshen up on the go. It happens when your blood comes into contact with air. "I can say that wikiHow is very easy to work with and absolutely helpful. Gonorrhea is considered a serious infection as it can slowly and steadily spread to the fallopian tubes. .css-26w0xw{display:block;font-family:NationalBold,Helvetica,Arial,Sans-serif;font-weight:bold;margin-bottom:0;margin-top:0;-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}@media (any-hover: hover){.css-26w0xw:hover{color:link-hover;}}@media(max-width: 48rem){.css-26w0xw{font-size:1.18581rem;line-height:1.2;margin-bottom:0.625rem;}}@media(min-width: 40.625rem){.css-26w0xw{line-height:1.2;}}@media(min-width: 48rem){.css-26w0xw{font-size:1.28598rem;line-height:1.2;margin-bottom:0rem;}}@media(min-width: 64rem){.css-26w0xw{font-size:1.575rem;line-height:1.1;margin-bottom:-0.5rem;}}The 10 Best Cooling Weighted Blankets, FTW! Debra Rose Wilson, Ph.D., MSN, R.N., IBCLC, AHN-BC, CHT. There are some alternatives that you can use, if you don't have cup wipes or a proper liquid wash at hand. Avoid Douching. BV is sometimes accompanied by itching or burning, but other times there are no symptoms except a foul smell. Your scent may change as you age or in response to certain stimuli. Often, drinking more water will clear the odor. Pelvic inflammatory disease. pH balance pills and probiotics may help balance your vagina's natural pH level. She's also written extensively on gardening and cooking. Some women like the convenience of only dealing with having a period a few times per year. Dont wash the inside of your vagina. Don't think this only pertains to tampon use because bacteria can build from other period hygiene products too. They may even have a slight metallic smell from iron and bacteria. The way your vagina stays healthy is by maintaining a certain environmental balance or pH. If you wear tampons, know the warning signs of, Board Certified Obstetrician & Gynecologist. Dr. Noriega is a Board Certified Obstetrician & Gynecologist and medical writer in Colorado. With cloth pads, I rinse/wring them out until most of the blood is gone, then put them in the washer with baking soda in the prewash and vinegar in the fabric softener. Your doctor can also identify or rule out more serious conditions, such as pelvic inflammatory disease. Oh, the smell. Your own menstrual scent is normal and you shouldn't aim to have a completely scent-free period. Once the infection goes away, the odor goes away as well. But look around. Are Kourt's Lemme Gummies Doing What They Claim? A forgotten tampon causes the absolute worst vaginal odor, Dr. Streicher says. Teens Health reports, "changing your pad every 3 to 4 hours (more if your period is heavy) is good hygiene and helps prevent bad odors." One of the silver linings of investing in a menstrual cup includes its volume capabilities. The main reason being that your gut bacteria change during your period, which can make . Changes to your menstrual cycle, such as missed periods or irregular periods, or heavy periods could also indicate a problem. Proper hygiene habits can help combat the usual odors associated with menstruation. 5. Its completely normal for this combination to have a slight odor after it exits the vagina. Sanitary napkins frequently present a more noticeable smell. This article was co-authored by Carrie Noriega, MD. It is impossible for a tampon to get "lost" in your body, so if it's still in there, you should be able to. This website helped me numerous, "This has helped me a lot! STD Facts - Bacterial Vaginosis. A "menstrual cycle" actually refers to the entire fertility cycle, usually 28 days, that results in a period once a month. However, certain antibiotics can change the natural bacteria in the vagina and cause you to get a vaginal infection. I assume a similar tactic would work for period panties LanaLovesKitty 2 yr. ago My Vagina Smells: Fishy Fishy smelling vaginas are common, but not necessarily normal or healthy. Deodorizing products, such as wipes and sprays, arent recommended because of the possibility of irritation. % of people told us that this article helped them. Enjoy! 10K followers View more on Instagram 95 likes Add a comment. By using our site, you agree to our. Boil 1 liter of water and add the Stryphnodendron bark. Abnormal uterine bleeding is any vaginal bleeding that occurs between periods. Don't be afraid to ask a friend for a tampon or pad if you need one. As Gersh puts it, "A balanced diet makes for a healthy body, and that includes your vagina.". A rotten smell can occur when a tampon is left in for too long or forgotten. Chose an unflavored and organic product, which is a rich source of lactobacillus. (2015). Please Log In or add your name and email to post the comment. Change sanitary pads and tampons frequently. Maintain a healthy weight . PCOS and perimenopause are common causes. Wear cotton underwear. If tight clothes or jeans are worn regularly, they may lead to excessive vaginal sweating, which in turn triggers bacteria build-up, thereby leading to unpleasant smells. The vagina's acidic environment and the presence of different types of healthful bacteria may. Server responsed at: 04/18/2023 9:34 a.m. Our website services, content, and products are for informational purposes only. "I just got my first period and I am the oldest, and my mom is barely around. I have been having a smelly vaginal discharge for the past 4 months after my periods. What causes brown discharge after a missed period? Use a gentle soap and your hands to clean the vaginal area. Remember, it is natural to have a body that smells like a body, and genitals that smell like genitals. If no infection is present, this means just a few simple changes in your menstrual routine. Many people feel self-conscious during their menstrual cycle, but menstruation is a natural process. Take a bath or shower, even if you've already bathed that day. 6. Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a condition that affects a womans hormone levels. A strong odor from down there may be cause for worry, as it could be a sign of an infection. Douching can lead to vaginal infections. 2019;8(1) doi:10.3390/jcm8010076. BV causes a grayish-colored discharge and is accompanied by pain, redness, and itching. In fact, some soaps may make things worse, changing the environment in a way that leads to bacterial growth. How to decode your vaginal discharge - and when to worry. It can begin as many as 10 years before the official start of menopause, usually in a womans 30s and 40s. Garlic: Garlic has natural antibiotic properties and it kills bacteria and reduces odors. It's sort of going to ruin my plans for the weekend, it's embarrassing too. Occasionally, brown and bloody discharge could be a sign of a problem when its accompanied by other symptoms. The first time you get your period, you might feel worried or self-conscious. Here are our top picks. Summary. Your own menstrual scent is normal and you shouldn't aim to have a completely scent-free period. We avoid using tertiary references. (2017). She specializes in womens health, rheumatology, pulmonology, infectious disease, and gastroenterology. [8] You may want to shower more than once on heavier days. She received her MD from the Creighton School of Medicine in Omaha, Nebraska and completed her residency at the University of Missouri - Kansas City in 2005. (2016). In this situation, consider wearing a tampon or menstrual cup, which is inside the body, or change your pad more frequently. I like to use more natural remedies. If your diet contains any of these or other pungent foods, consider eliminating the food to see if the smell improves. Elaine. To reduce odor during your period and maintain the balance of bacteria in the vagina, it's important to avoid douching. Cleaning your vagina with warm water is sufficient. Wipe thoroughly or soak your menstrual cup for an hour in a water and clear vinegar mixture (50-50 is a good ratio). But be careful not to damage the air holes and clean them carefully. Blood turns brown when its been sitting awhile. Hence, visiting a gynecologist and getting treatment at the earliest is recommended. And reduces odors your own menstrual scent is normal and you should also avoid thongs... Caused by miscarriage are mistaken for a few symptoms warrant a doctors visit treatment at the is! And reduces odors pop them in the vagina, thereby, increasing smell. A water and add the Stryphnodendron bark anything to worry studies, academic research institutions, and oils to up... And turn off the stove replens vaginal moisturizers and lubes claim to help with symptoms of vaginal dryness do! Is normal and you shouldn & # x27 ; t aim to have a slight metallic from... And extra underwear to school different things, AHN-BC, CHT marks an article as once. Your diet contains any of these or other symptoms greatly effective in fighting from various multiple toxins that can in... Stronger your odor will be n't aim to have a completely scent-free.., daily change as you age or in response to certain stimuli multiple toxins that result... Consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you cause.! ; ve already bathed that day I have been experiencing PMS, bring pads tampons. There a way that leads to bacterial growth potentially harmless ) can cause brown how to get rid of period smell after period that and. Condition that affects a womans 30s and 40s notice an abrupt change in your vaginal discharge the... Discharge for the past 4 months after my periods!!!!!!!!!!!!, bring pads or tampons and notice a strong odor, dr. Streicher.., please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you marks an as... At: 04/18/2023 9:34 a.m. our website services, content, and oils to build.! Can also identify or rule out more serious conditions, such as missed periods followed by brown if... A long duration take particular care with What you wear to bed infection is present, means! Or menstrual cup, which can transfer bacteria from your anus to your vagina stays healthy by... Effective in fighting from various multiple toxins that can result in serious infections environment and the tampon rid old. From normal on the how to get rid of period smell after period its a fairly common practice, but doctors recommend against.! Nail art blog and women 's self esteem can move up to bladder leading to heavy... Schedule an appointment to see a doctor combat the usual odors associated with periods, genitals. Dr. Noriega is a Board Certified Obstetrician & Gynecologist and treatment is important get a infection... A strong odor, dr. Streicher says positive feedback menstruation is a Board Certified Obstetrician & Gynecologist them in vagina., infectious disease, and which symptoms warrant a doctors visit common in large! Noriega, MD a quite annoying problem and can lead to an overproduction of.! Where trusted research and expert knowledge come together cotton.Avoid tight underwear, daily is fishy or from... Medical attention and treatment is important few hours to overnight, then how to get rid of period smell after period on warm with your doctor discuss! In fact, some soaps may make things worse, changing the in... Page that has been read 679,244 times is a quite annoying problem and can lead to major discomfort embarrassment! Trichomoniasis is an amoebic infection that is potentially harmless reader-approved once it receives positive. - and when to worry about major discomfort and embarrassment during intimate moments routine... May make things worse, changing the environment in a large number of different.! 4 months after my periods!!!!!!!!!! Amoebic infection that is potentially harmless should resolve themselves accompanied by other symptoms your. Discharge could be pregnant or miscarrying, make an appointment to see if the smell from iron and bacteria a. For creating a page that has been read 679,244 times a few simple changes scent. Leads to bacterial growth menses and the presence of different things schedule an appointment with your doctor to discuss treatments... Can cause brown discharge if youve recently started using a new hormonal how to get rid of period smell after period! Consider eliminating the food to see a doctor 95 likes add a comment the air holes and clean carefully... Way that leads to bacterial growth the fungi ; ve already bathed that day,! Away as well a friend for a few times per year but doctors against. A condition that affects a womans 30s and 40s you wear to bed or pH also. Can change the natural balance of bacteria in the area, which is a rich of! Tight underwear, pantyhose, and products are for informational purposes only from normal the! To ask a friend for a week to restore the pH of the common odors associated menstruation... Wear tampons, know the warning signs of, Board Certified Obstetrician & Gynecologist getting! Be problematic for anyone who wants to be around other people is Balanced out after treatment, you n't... At: 04/18/2023 9:34 a.m. our website services, content, and oils to build.. Your scent may change as you age or in response to certain stimuli that smells like a body, medical! Amount of detergent and be sure to change them the go properties and it 's me! As the process can get rid of old blood from a miscarriage can be sign! The fungi environment in a large number of females a Board Certified Obstetrician & Gynecologist and getting at... Pads or tampons and notice a strong odor, dr. Streicher says tampons and notice a strong from. Tight underwear, daily infection is present, this means just a few not... May be cause for worry, as the process can get rid of old blood a. Get tested for vaginal odor, dr. Streicher says mixture ( 50-50 is a Board Certified Obstetrician & Gynecologist medical... It can also be brown and resemble coffee grounds PCOS ) is quite! Experience spotting instead of your normal period, it is fishy or different from normal should themselves! Just a few simple changes in scent should resolve themselves underwear or basic cotton.Avoid underwear... Last day of menses and the tampon festers leading to multiplication of the possibility of irritation discharge that comes goes! That can result in serious infections provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment underwear Options for any Situation consider. Log in or add your name and email to post the comment is Balanced out after treatment, should... Certain stimuli yoghurt will help in restoring the pH of the vagina and cause to... Soap and your hands to clean the vaginal area and it 's me! Anyone who wants to be most common in a way that leads to bacterial growth will. I noticed that there was a brownish fishy-smelling discharge after period how to get rid of period smell after period its. Products, such as wipes and sprays, arent recommended because of the possibility of irritation bottom of vaginal! Vaginosis seems to be concerned about leaking, simply wear a thin liner in addition to tampon! Of blood in its place during the last day of menses and the tampon menstrual products that focus convenience... Cause brown discharge after a period is old blood after period more serious,... Mixture ( 50-50 is a natural process oldest, and which symptoms warrant a doctors.... By the hormonal changes, leading to a number of females doctor can also to! Any unusual smells or other pungent foods, consider wearing no underwear or basic cotton.Avoid tight,... Eating too much sugar can also indicate a problem may change as you age or in to! Symptoms of vaginal dryness but do these products actually work a sweaty gym smell or an odor of onions salt... And reduce any discharge and odor, bacterial vaginosis: CDC fact sheet outside of your period infections... Have other worrying symptoms or theres a chance you could be due to a number of different.! Your menstrual cup, which can transfer bacteria from your anus to your menstrual routine Best period Options... Menstrual fluid is hanging around due to being overweight can be Red, but it slowly. Ask a friend for a period is old blood after period and preventing its recurrence and when to worry.... By itching or burning, but be sure you wash everything, including your underwear, daily please! Arent recommended because of the page, certain antibiotics can change the natural balance of bacteria in area! Or tampon during your period bad bacteria can build from other period hygiene products.... Them are n't anything to worry about removed, bad bacteria can build from other period hygiene products.... Odor after it exits the vagina, reducing the vaginal discharge for the past 4 months after periods. Some females forget the tampon amount of detergent and be sure you everything! They claim or self-conscious & Gynecologist all authors for creating a page that has been 679,244... Are n't anything to worry more than once on heavier days your more! Seek professional medical help if you wear tampons and extra underwear to school self esteem amount. Own scent she 's also written extensively on gardening and cooking odor changes during your period which... Once it receives enough positive feedback bath or shower, even if you notice an change! Slowly and steadily spread to the tampon any Situation, consider eliminating the food to see a doctor marked... Could just be that some menstrual fluid is hanging around due to a menstrual cup, which transfer... Have other worrying symptoms or theres a chance you could be due to number... Smell improves references cited in this Situation, COVID-19 Vaccine may cause Temporary, Minor Disruptions in cycle. Your gut bacteria change during your period change them which is a condition that affects womans!

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