This article is for informational purposes only. It is not, nor is it intended to be, a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment and should never be relied upon for specific medical advice.
It is normal to be insecure about vaginal odor. 65 percent of women have felt insecure about their vaginal scent - but almost half of all women don't talk about it. If you can smell yourself through your pants, other people may not smell anything. That is because we all have different smell perceptions, and certain factors, such as distance, location, and sensitivity, affect how we smell.
If you can smell a vaginal odor through your pants even when you shower daily, here are a few things you can do to reduce the smell.
Common Reasons
Yeast Infections
Yeast infections are a common cause of foul smells in the groin area. They can affect all genders and occur at early ages. Yeast infections cause unusual discharge, changes in discharge consistency, redness, vaginal irritation, and itchiness. Yeast infections are often treated with oral antifungal medications or antifungal ointments. If the yeast infection is recurrent, other treatments may be prescribed by a medical provider.
Bacterial Vaginosis
Bacterial vaginosis (BV) is a medical condition due to an overgrowth of bacteria. BV affects primarily women of childbearing age. Bacterial vaginosis can lead to excessive discharge, vulvar itchiness, gray or white vaginal discharge, burning sensations, vaginal itchiness, and changes in discharge consistency, color, and odor. BV is commonly caused by a bacterial shift in your vaginal pH due to sex, condoms, lube, or menstrual blood.
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Hygiene
Regular baths with natural, fragrance-free soaps and water can prevent sweat, dirt, and dead skin buildup of odor-causing bacteria. Do not douche or use scented products to shower or clean your vulva. Bathe at least twice a day with mild soap and water to decrease foul odor and keep the natural pH balance of the vagina. Try our Gentle 2-N-1 Foaming Wash, created by an OB/GYN for your intimate routine. Our feminine wash leverages naturally mineral-rich Montmorillonite clay (from western France) to create perfect pH harmony, reduce odors, dissolve bacteria, and immobilize yeast where you need it most. For all-day confidence, use this luxurious wash to gently cleanse and moisturize your vulva, armpits, and body.
Sweat
We all sweat. The problem is sweat causes bacteria to overgrow. And bacteria put the engine on the stink train. You can reduce sweating by wearing loose clothing and keeping your body cool and dry through daily showers.
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Clothing
Refrain from wearing tight clothing and opt for breathable material, like cotton, to reduce trapping sweat and moisture. Wear cotton underwear or material that is breathable and reduces sweat buildup.
Health
Some medical conditions and medications can cause you to smell down there. Conditions like sexually transmitted infections (STIs) or diabetes can cause a foul odor in the groin and unusual discharge. Some medications that can lead to smell in the groin area include duloxetine, escitalopram, paroxetine, or sertraline.
Sex
To reduce the unusual odor after engaging in sexual activity, always practice safe sex. By using condoms and barrier methods, you can limit your exposure to STIs and harmful odor-causing bacteria. Refrain from having sex with an active yeast infection or other infections, as it can worsen the smells. Wash with mild soap and water after sex to remove sweat and maintain a healthy vaginal environment.
Takeaway
It's common for women to feel insecure about vaginal odor, but it's important to understand that everyone's sense of smell is different. If you notice a persistent odor, it could be due to a yeast infection or bacterial vaginosis, both of which can be treated with medication or natural probiotics. Maintaining good hygiene, wearing breathable clothing, and practicing safe sex can also help reduce odor. It's important to talk to a medical provider if you have concerns about vaginal odor or unusual discharge.
