Why Do Some Women Have a Fishy Vaginal Odor? 5 Common Causes and What to Do

A noticeable fishy vaginal odor can be uncomfortable or embarrassing, but it is not a sign that someone is dirty.

The vagina naturally has a mild scent, and that scent can change during the menstrual cycle, after sex, or with changes in vaginal discharge. However, a persistent or unusually strong fishy odor can sometimes indicate an imbalance or infection that deserves attention.

Here are five common causes—and practical steps that may help.

1. Bacterial Vaginosis (BV)

Bacterial vaginosis is one of the most common causes of a fishy vaginal odor.

BV occurs when the normal balance of bacteria in the vagina changes. Some women have few or no symptoms, while others may notice:

• A strong fishy odor, sometimes more noticeable after sex
• Thin white or gray discharge
• Mild irritation

BV is not classified as an STI, although sexual activity and changes in sexual partners can be associated with a higher risk.

What to Do

BV is treatable with medication prescribed by a healthcare professional. Avoid trying to mask the odor with scented products or vaginal washes, as these can further irritate the area.

2. Trichomoniasis

Trichomoniasis is a sexually transmitted infection caused by a parasite called Trichomonas vaginalis.

Possible symptoms include:

• Unusual or unpleasant vaginal odor
• Increased discharge
• Yellowish or greenish discharge
• Genital itching or irritation
• Burning during urination
• Discomfort during sex

However, many people with trichomoniasis have no obvious symptoms.

What to Do

Testing is the only reliable way to determine whether trichomoniasis is present. It can be treated with prescription medication.

If you are diagnosed with trichomoniasis, sexual partners generally need treatment as well to reduce the risk of passing the infection back and forth.

3. Vaginal Irritation or Disrupted Vaginal Balance

The vagina does not need to be cleaned internally.

Douching, scented sprays, fragranced wipes, deodorants, and harsh soaps can irritate the vulva and disrupt the normal vaginal environment.

Instead:

• Wash the external genital area gently
• Use warm water and, if desired, a mild fragrance-free cleanser
• Avoid douching
• Avoid scented vaginal products
• Change out of sweaty clothing when possible

Remember: the vagina is self-cleaning.

Good hygiene means gentle care—not trying to eliminate every natural scent.

4. A Retained Tampon or Other Vaginal Product

A tampon or other menstrual product accidentally left inside the vagina can cause a strong, unpleasant odor.

You may also notice unusual discharge or pelvic discomfort.

If you think you may have forgotten a tampon or cannot remove one easily, contact a healthcare professional. Do not forcefully try to remove an object if it is difficult or painful.

If a retained tampon is accompanied by fever, vomiting, dizziness, rash, fainting, or feeling suddenly very unwell, seek urgent medical care.

5. Sweat, Moisture, and External Odor

Not every unusual genital odor comes from inside the vagina.

Sweat, menstrual blood, urine, skin bacteria, tight clothing, and prolonged moisture can sometimes contribute to an odor around the vulva or groin.

Helpful habits include:

• Wearing breathable underwear
• Changing out of wet or sweaty clothing
• Avoiding very tight clothing for prolonged periods
• Keeping the external area clean and dry
• Changing menstrual products regularly

However, a persistent fishy odor from the vagina itself is more suggestive of a vaginal imbalance or infection than ordinary sweating.

How to Reduce the Risk of Unpleasant Vaginal Odor

There is no need to make the vagina smell like perfume. A healthy vagina naturally has its own mild scent.

To support vaginal health:

✅ Avoid douching

Douching can disturb the natural vaginal environment and may increase the risk of problems such as BV.

✅ Skip scented intimate products

Fragranced washes, sprays, powders, and wipes can cause irritation.

✅ Practice safer sex

Condoms can reduce the risk of many sexually transmitted infections.

✅ Change menstrual products regularly

Follow the recommended usage instructions for tampons and other menstrual products.

✅ Wear comfortable, breathable clothing

This can help reduce prolonged moisture around the genital area.

✅ Don’t self-treat based only on odor

Different conditions can cause similar symptoms, so the correct diagnosis matters.

When Should You See a Healthcare Professional?

Make an appointment if you have:

• A strong or persistent fishy odor
• Unusual vaginal discharge
• Itching or burning
• Pain during urination
• Pelvic pain
• Pain during sex
• Recurrent episodes of unusual odor
• A possible retained tampon
• Concern about an STI

If you are sexually active and have a new partner or possible STI exposure, testing can provide important answers.

Final Thoughts

A fishy vaginal odor is common and usually treatable, but it shouldn’t automatically be blamed on poor hygiene.

Bacterial vaginosis is a common cause, while sexually transmitted infections such as trichomoniasis can also produce unusual odor. Irritation, retained menstrual products, and external sweat or moisture are other possibilities.

The best approach is simple: avoid harsh products, don’t douche, and get checked if the odor is persistent or accompanied by other symptoms.

Your natural vaginal scent does not need to be eliminated. What matters is recognizing a significant change and getting appropriate care when necessary.

Disclaimer: This article is for general educational purposes and does not replace professional medical advice. Persistent vaginal odor, unusual discharge, pain, burning, or other new symptoms should be evaluated by a qualified healthcare professional.