How to get rid of smelly discharge? Vaginal odor can be quite strong and unpleasant. It can be a sign of an underlying health problem.
What can I take to get rid of smelly discharge?
Odor can change during menstruation, pregnancy and aging. However, a persistent or unusual odor should always be checked by a doctor.
There are several causes for smelly discharge, including a yeast infection or infection like bacterial vaginosis. These conditions can cause a sweeter, beer-like odor and thicker, clumpier discharge that can be itching and/or raw.
Infections caused by STIs such as chlamydia and gonorrhea may also produce smelly discharge. In most cases, this discharge is not harmful and does not require medical attention.
Bacterial vaginosis is the most common vaginal infection, and can be caused by an overgrowth of bacteria in the vaginal tissue. In some cases, this condition can cause a fishy odor and thin, gray discharge.
If you’re experiencing a bad vaginal odor that doesn’t seem to be getting better, see your doctor for a diagnosis and treatment plan. Often, symptoms can be treated with medication or antifungal medicine.
If your odor is particularly bothersome, you may want to discuss it with a gynecologic oncologist. Cancers that affect the cervix can sometimes cause foul-smelling discharge, says Jennifer Wider, MD, a nationally renowned women’s health expert.