Last updated: Sep 25, 2025Published on: Mar 11, 2024
Table of Contents
Introduction
Understanding the cause of period odour is important. It’s not just about self-confidence; certain period odours may also signal an underlying health concern. So, in this article, we tackle everything about period odour. This article explores why period odours occur, common types of odours, and home remedies and research-backed tips that may help reduce unpleasant smells. We will also discuss when it is time to see a doctor and the best ways to avoid period odour.
Did you know?
Approximately 75% of all women have experienced vaginitis and changes in vaginal odour due to it1.
Maintaining good menstrual hygiene, such as changing tampons or pads regularly, may help minimise any odour associated with menstruation2.
Certain factors, such as poor hygiene, bacterial vaginosis, and sexually transmitted infection can also contribute to a stronger or unpleasant vaginal odour, while the odour may also change during menstruation, pregnancy and after sex3.
Understanding Period Odour
Why Does My Period Have Odour?
Hormonal changes during menstruation: Changes in oestrogen and progesterone levels during your cycle can change your vagina’s pH balance. This could result in a less acidic environment, which attracts more bacteria and produces a unique odour1,4.
Bacterial action and breakdown of blood: During menstruation, period blood can raise the vaginal pH, which may allow more bacteria to grow5. This can sometimes cause stronger or unusual odours.
Odour and personal hygiene: A poor hygiene routine may lead to unpleasant period odour6. Sweat, dead skin cells, and bacteria may collect in the vulva, making the odour worse. By simply taking regular showers, wearing clean underwear, and changing sanitary products promptly, you may be able to reduce vaginal odour.
Common Types of Period Odour
Period odour may occur due to a combination of hormonal changes, the way bacteria interact with menstrual blood, and individual hygiene practices. Here are four common types of period odours you might come across:
Metallic: The iron content in period blood can cause a metallic odour7.
Foul-smelling: Lack of proper hygiene or a vaginal infection might cause a foul-smelling vaginal odour.
Sweet or beer like: It can be a sign of yeast infection3.
Fish-like odour: If your period has a fish-like odour, it can be commonly caused by an infection like bacterial vaginosis3.
If you notice a fish-like odour in your urine or reproductive fluids, it might be because your body is releasing too much of a hormone called trimethylamine. This condition is called primary trimethylaminuria. People with this condition usually seem normal and healthy, but the odour can be stronger during your period15.
Some simple home remedies that may help vaginal odour during periods are as follows.
1. Shower regularly
A regular shower routine is key to staying clean and avoiding odour build-up. Shower at least once a day during your periods8.
Wash your private parts daily, especially outside of the vagina by wiping from front to back. Avoid chemical products that can alter your vaginal pH levels, which in turn, may lead to infection2.
2. Stay hydrated
Staying well-hydrated helps your body function properly and flushes out toxins in the urinary tract. This may help manage a yeast infection2. It may also help reduce any ammonia-like odours that may occur during periods due to dehydration.
3. Use of tampons or menstrual cups for better hygiene
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Do not use a tampon for more than 8 hours. You may use a less absorbent tampon, which needs to be changed earlier to avoid odour2.Tampons collect menstrual blood internally, reducing its exposure to air, limiting bacterial activity. This reduces bacterial breakdown and lessens odour.
Choosing the right menstrual hygiene product: It’s all about comfort and flow when picking sanitary products. You can choose from pads, tampons, and menstrual cups. Feel free to try different types of products and brands until you find your perfect match.
4. Changing your diet to improve period odour
What you eat can also affect your period odours. Knowing what foods can alter your period odour and making the required changes may help to reduce the period odours by helping your body to stay balanced and make it less prone to infections.
Foods That May Help Reduce Period Odour
One study shows that consuming the following foods may lead to better vaginal health9 and a lower incidence of infections.
Here are a few key practices that may help maintain optimal vaginal health.
1. Proper vulva hygiene
Gently wash your vulva (the outer genital area, labia, and clitoral hood) with warm water and mild soap to clean the area and rinse thoroughly on a regular basis. Avoid harsh or scented products near this sensitive area2. Afterward, pat the area dry with a clean towel. Do not clean inside the vagina as it is self-cleaning.
2. Wearing the right clothing for comfort and breathability
Cotton underwear and loose breathable clothing are good choices. They allow air to circulate and keep moisture away2. Jeans, pantyhose, and tight pants or trousers can lead to sweat in the body, which in turn, causes unpleasant odour in period blood11. Even tight outfits can trap sweat and bacteria, leading to unpleasant odours and infections.
3. Changing sanitary products regularly
Change your pads, tampons, or menstrual cups regularly as per your flow2. This may help reduce odour and keep bacteria in check. Changing tampons regularly can also lower the risk of toxic shock syndrome12.
4. Staying away from harmful practices and products
As tempting as they may seem, not all ‘feminine hygiene’ products are safe. Some can disrupt the natural pH balance and healthy bacterial environment of the vagina, causing infections and strong odours2. It’s best to say no to douches, harsh cleansers, and perfumed soaps in the vaginal area.
Douches: Using a douche can disrupt the natural vaginal pH and reduce the protective lactobacilli, increasing the risk of infection, irritation, and possibly more odour13.
Fragrant ‘feminine hygiene’ products: Perfumed tampons, pads, and toilet paper should also be avoided. Fragrant products can disrupt the vaginal pH, cause irritation, increase infection risk, and add to the odour2. Natural, unscented options are healthier choices.
When to Seek Medical Help?
Foul-smelling vaginal odour may be linked to causes such as a retained tampon, cervical infections, sexually transmitted infections, or atrophic vaginitis (thinning of the vaginal tissues after menopause). Consider reaching out to your healthcare provider if you notice any of the following symptoms.
Odour that persists for longer time.
Itching, burning, or discomfort.
Signs of an infection, like unusual discharge or colour.
Here are some additional daily measures you can follow apart from the home remedies mentioned above.
Be aware of your usual scent: Knowing your natural vaginal odour helps detect any unusual changes early. So, get familiar with your natural scent which can change based on factors like diet, menstrual cycle, and hygiene habits.
Practice good vaginal care habits: Follow a good vulva hygiene routine. Dress in breathable cotton underwear and stay clear of clothes that trap moisture and bacteria2.
Stick to a regular, balanced diet: A balanced diet packed with fruits, vegetables, whole grains, egg, yogurt, foods rich in vitamin D, and fibre helps maintain a pleasant vaginal odour by balancing the vaginal pH9,10. Note any foods that may cause an unpleasant odour and adjust your diet as needed.
Conclusion
Period odours are normal and may occur due to hormonal changes, bacterial action, and how well you keep yourself clean3,4. Although period odour may resolve on its own, some odours can indicate infections or other health problems. Learn to keep period odour at bay with research-backed tips while improving overall health. And remember, if you detect big changes in your period odour or any uncomfortable symptoms, book an appointment with your healthcare provider.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is a ‘bad’ period odour?
If your period has a strong or lingering odour not linked to hormones or hygiene, it could be considered unpleasant. This includes foul-smelling, fish-like, or overly strong metallic odour, which may signal an infection or other health issues.
Can having sex cause period odour?
Yes, having sex can change vaginal odour temporarily. This is due to factors like semen, friction, pH changes, or the use of items like lubricants or condoms during sex.
How long does it take for period odour to go away after menstruation?
Unless caused by infections or other problems, period odours should disappear within a day or two after your period ends. Consult a healthcare professional if the odour lingers or worsens.
How can I get rid of period odour naturally?
Maintain good hygiene, hydrate well, eat balanced meals, and pick the right sanitary products to manage period odour naturally.
Is it normal for the vagina to have an odour during menstruation?
Yes, a slight odour during menstruation is normal. It’s often caused by hormonal changes, blood breakdown, and personal hygiene habits.
How frequently should you change tampons to avoid period odour
You should change your tampon every 4-8 hours and do not use it for more than 8 hours.
How should I clean a menstrual cup?
Just rinse the cup well under running water after every use.
References
Lin YP, Chen WC, Cheng CM, Shen CJ. Vaginal pH Value for Clinical Diagnosis and Treatment of Common Vaginitis. Diagnostics (Basel). 2021 Oct 27;11(11):1996. doi: 10.3390/diagnostics11111996.Available from: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8618584/
Kumar G, Prasuna JG, Seth G. Assessment of menstrual hygiene among reproductive age women in South-west Delhi. J Family Med Prim Care. 2017 Oct-Dec;6(4):730-734. doi: 10.4103/jfmpc.jfmpc_24_17.Available from: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC5848388/
Moran JK, Dietrich DR, Elbert T, Pause BM, Kübler L, Weierstall R. The Scent of Blood: A Driver of Human Behavior? PLoS One. 2015 Sep 23;10(9):e0137777. doi: 10.1371/journal.pone.0137777.Available from: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4580480/
Chen Y, Bruning E, Rubino J, Eder SE. Role of female intimate hygiene in vulvovaginal health: Global hygiene practices and product usage. Womens Health (Lond). 2017 Dec;13(3):58-67. doi: 10.1177/1745505717731011. Epub 2017 Sep 22. Available from: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7789027/
Rosen EM, Martin CL, Siega-Riz AM, Dole N, Basta PV, Serrano M, Fettweis J, Wu M, Sun S, Thorp JM Jr, Buck G, Fodor AA, Engel SM. Is prenatal diet associated with the composition of the vaginal microbiome? Paediatr Perinat Epidemiol. 2022 Mar;36(2):243-253. doi: 10.1111/ppe.12830. Epub 2021 Nov 28.Available from: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8881389/
Noormohammadi M, Eslamian G, Kazemi SN, Rashidkhani B. Association between dietary patterns and bacterial vaginosis: a case-control study. Sci Rep. 2022 Jul 16;12(1):12199. doi: 10.1038/s41598-022-16505-8.Available from: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9288476/
MedlinePlus. Vaginal itching and discharge – adult and adolescent [Internet]. U.S. National Library of Medicine; [updated 23 Aug 2023; cited 10 Sep 2025]. Available from: https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/003158.htm
Doty RL, Ford M, Preti G, Huggins GR. Changes in the intensity and pleasantness of human vaginal odors during the menstrual cycle. Science. 1975;190(4221):1316‑8. doi:10.1126/science.1239080. Available from: https://www.science.org/doi/10.1126/science.1239080
Stanić Ž, Pribisalić A, Bošković M, Bućan Cvitanić J, Boban K, Bašković G, Bartulić A, Demo S, Polašek O, Kolčić I. Does Each Menstrual Cycle Elicit a Distinct Effect on Olfactory and Gustatory Perception? Nutrients. 2021 Jul 22;13(8):2509. doi: 10.3390/nu13082509. PMID: 34444669; PMCID: PMC8401541. Available from: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8401541/
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