Vaginal odor refers to the smell that comes from the vagina. While the female intimate part normally has odor, a strong smell may be bothersome or problematic for some women.
Causes
Vaginal odor has several causes. According to Berkeley Wellness, the causes of the smell include hormonal changes, which affect the smell of the vaginal secretions during the menstrual period; infections, such as bacterial vaginosis, trichomoniasis, and yeast infection; sweat, which combines with the bacteria on the skin; eating food options with strong scents, such as onion, garlic, fish, cabbage, broccoli, pepper, and chilies; and presence of a tampon, since the accumulated menstrual blood and bacteria can lead to a strong and unpleasant discharge.
Signs and Symptoms
Vaginal odor may be accompanied by certain signs and symptoms. According to Medicine Net, these include vaginal itching, vaginal discharge, and vaginal dryness.
Home Remedies
While medical regimen is available to treat vaginal odor, home remedies can also be done to manage the condition.
Apple Cider Vinegar
One of the known home remedies for vaginal odor is apple cider vinegar. According to Top 10 Home Remedies, the vinegar has antiseptic and antibacterial properties, which can be utilized to counter the smell in the vagina. As per the publication, taking a bath with the vinegar stands as one of the the easiest methods to eliminate the unpleasant smell. This is done by fighting the bacteria and toxins that yield the odor. In addition, apple cider vinegar’s natural acid nature helps in the restoration of the acidic environment in the vagina.
To prepare, as per the publication, two cups of apple cider vinegar is mixed in warm bath water and allowed to soak for about 20 minutes. The remedy is done numerous times per week to achieve favorable results. An alternative is to drink a glass of water mixed with a tablespoon or two of apple cider vinegar.
Yogurt
Another natural remedy for vaginal odor is yogurt. According to Rapid Home Remedies, yogurt contains lactobacillus, which prevents gastrointestinal infection. Also, the bacteria help reduce the chances of yeast infection and restore the normal vaginal pH levels, which remove the smell. As per the publication, the person consumes one-fourth to one-half cup of yogurt. It is also recommended that a person should at least two cups of yogurt daily.
Garlic
Garlic is another natural reedy for vaginal odor. According to Enkivillage, garlic has both antibiotic an fungal properties, making it capable of removing the cause of the smell. In addition, the plant also helps enhance the condition of the person’s immune system. To prepare, as per the publication, the person make consume garlic cloves (either cooked or raw) daily, apply garlic paste over the vagina, or insert a fresh garlic clove by wrapping it inside the cheesecloth in the vagina. As an alternative for the third option, a string can be attached to a cloth for the person to pull the garlic when necessary.
Change Panties Regularly
Regular underwear changing is one of the remedies that will reduce vaginal odor. According to Vkool, cotton is better to use than silk and satin, which make women look great and feel sexy. Also, the underwear should be changed every 12 hours, since wearing an undergarment over and over promotes bacterial growth and this likely result to a strong vaginal odor.
Vaginal odor may not be as serious as cancer; but, it may reduce a person’s self-esteem. Thus, it is vital to seek medical consult with a health professional to assess the kind of odor and associate it to a proper diagnosis. This way, appropriate interventions will be carried out.
