Are you noticing that popular fishy smell you hear people talk about from your vagina, which makes you uncomfortable? Well, it is a common issue many women experience, and in most cases, it’s easily treatable.
The most obvious culprit is bacterial vaginosis (BV), but other factors may also be triggering that smell. The good news is that once you understand the cause and get the right treatment, unusual vaginal odors can often be resolved quickly and effectively.
What Causes a Fishy Vaginal Smell?
Here are some of the causes of a fishy vaginal odor:
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Bacterial Vaginosis (BV)
BV happens when “good” lactobacilli bacteria are reduced and other bacteria (like Gardnerella) multiply. That shift causes vaginal pH to rise and often produces a thin, grayish discharge with a strong “fishy” smell, especially after sex. It is essential to note that bacterial vaginosis is a common condition and is not always associated with poor hygiene.
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Trichomoniasis
Trichomoniasis is a sexually transmitted infection that can also cause a foul, fishy, or stale odor, typically with frothy, yellow-green discharge and itching. It requires different antibiotics than BV, so testing matters.
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Forgotten Tampon or Poor Pad Changes
A tampon left in for too long or inconsistent pad changes can cause a rotten or foul smell and increase the risk of infection. So, don’t forget to remove period products and see a doctor if you feel unwell.
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Other Causes
Diagnosis of Vaginal Fishy Smell
Hospitals use a combination of:
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Patient symptoms include thin, grayish, or off-white discharge, strong fishy smell, often more noticeable after sex, mild burning, itch, or irritation (but sometimes no symptoms at all), high fever, severe pain, heavy bleeding, or fainting.
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Simple tests include vaginal pH ( >4.5 suggests BV) and the “whiff” test (a fishy smell after adding KOH)
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A microscope to look for “clue cells.” In many situations, a doctor will treat based on these findings. If tests are unclear, lab tests (Nugent scoring) are available in hospitals.
Treatment for Vaginal Fishy Smell
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For pregnancy, BV can be treated safely, and metronidazole is commonly used, but you should never self-medicate.
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Avoid douching or scented washes around your vagina as these can upset the natural vaginal flora.
Always see a qualified healthcare professional for proper guidance.
Everyday Tips for Prevention of Vaginal Fishy Smell
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Change pads/tampons regularly and avoid leaving tampons in for extended periods.
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Use plain water and mild, unscented soap for external washing only. Avoid douching, vaginal deodorants, and strong soaps.
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Use condoms with new or multiple partners to reduce risk, as BV is usually linked to sexual activity patterns.
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Wear breathable cotton underwear and avoid sitting in wet swimwear for long periods.
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If you smoke, quitting might reduce BV risk.
You may also try probiotics; however, the evidence is mixed. Consult with your doctor before starting any supplements.
What if My Fishy Smell Symptoms Escalate?
See a doctor if you have:
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A new, strong fishy smell that doesn’t go away after cleaning.
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Grey, green, or frothy discharge;
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Pain, fever, or bleeding;
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Recurrent episodes despite treatment.
Early treatment prevents complications (in pregnancy, BV has been linked to preterm birth risk), so don’t delay.
Bottom Line
A fishy vaginal odor is usually a sign of bacterial vaginosis or another treatable condition, so if you are diagnosed and get treated effectively with recommended antibiotics, you have no issues.
To prevent a fishy odor totally, avoid DIY douches or scented products. If symptoms persist, consult a healthcare professional to rule out underlying causes.
Have you dealt with a fishy smell before? What was the result after medication, or did you use something else?
Researched by Mercy Adeniyi.
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