Why does my period blood have funny and strong smell?
You have your period. You’ve probably found that your vaginal odor smells a little more intense when you’re bleeding, and that’s normal, Dr. Shepherd says. Blood has an elevated pH, and that can throw your vaginal flora off a little during your period. Usually it’s not a huge change in scent, and it goes away once your period wraps up, she says.
What is period blood supposed to smell like?
Some people who menstruate, in particular, describe their period blood as having a metallic-like scent - according to Dr. Dweck, this is likely because of the iron content in the blood. Dr. Dweck also adds that blood is a bacterial medium and may have a differing smell for that reason too.
Is period blood supposed to have a smell?
This is a normal odor during your period. Blood is iron-laden, so it is natural to smell that way, especially if you leak and let it dry. Side note: Don’t forget that women tend to lose iron every month via period blood, so be sure to eat your veggies!
Does period blood taste like normal blood?
period blood isn't the same as normal blood though, it's blood and tissue. it's got the iron content which would explain the tangyness but obviously it's going to taste different as it's more 'meaty' and the addition of normal fluids is going to alter the taste as well.
What does period blood smell like?
Period blood can have a metallic smell, like a copper coin. This is typically due to the presence of iron in the blood and is not usually a cause for concern. However, it should not persist much longer after the period ends.
Why does some period blood smell?
"But period blood stays in the vagina for a longer period of time. It's exposed to the bacteria in the vagina, and that's where you get that odor." You might also notice that it doesn't always smell the same. The amount of bacteria in the vagina fluctuates, which can change the smell.
Can period blood smell fishy?
If a fishy odor persists after your period is over, an infection such as bacterial vaginosis may be present. Contact your healthcare provider for an in-office examination.
Can people smell your period blood?
Myth No. While we each have our own unique scent, menstrual blood itself has no odor. It's made of blood and tissue that sheds from your uterus, and when mixed with the naturally occurring bacteria in your body, may smell a little less than fresh.
Can a man get an infection from period blood?
Period blood, just like all blood, can contain bloodborne pathogens. Consuming period blood (during oral sex) or getting it in an open wound comes with a risk of transferring or contracting known or unknown bloodborne illnesses.
How do you stop your periods from smelling like pants?
2. How to stop period pants smellingChange your period pants frequently.Rinse your period undies thoroughly.Store menstrual underwear carefully until washing.Machine wash your period knickers in a 3/4 full machine.Air or line dry your period underwear.Store period panties carefully until your next menstrual cycle.
How do I get rid of the odor down there?
Things you can do at homeCleaning tips. Avoid using any douching product or anything with dyes or a strong fragrance. ... Diet. Some foods may cause a fishy or other vaginal odor. ... Supplements. A probiotic may be helpful for restoring bacterial balance in your gut and vagina. ... Change your routine.
Can a man sense when a woman is on her period?
And what about during your period? Previous studies have shown that a woman's body odor is strongest during menstruation and that men who are particularly sensitive to smells can even detect this change in her scent.
Can people smell my pad?
Generally, your period won't be noticeable to others. If it is strong enough to be noticed through your pants, for example, it's more likely that you have sprung a leak than anyone can smell anything through your menstrual care device.
Why do I have a fishy smell?
Trimethylaminuria (TMAU) is an uncommon condition that causes an unpleasant, fishy smell. It's also called "fish odour syndrome". Sometimes it's caused by faulty genes that a person inherits from their parents, but this isn't always the case. There's currently no cure, but there are things that can help.
Why is my period blood smell sweet?
This smell is the most common and isn't normally a cause for concern. Sweet: Some women have reported experiencing an almost sweet smell coming from their period blood. This is most often the result of your period blood reacting with the acidity of your vagina.
Why does my period blood smell like onions?
In fact, everyone's vaginal discharge has a slightly different smell, and that's completely normal, according to Minkin. On the other hand, a more persistent onion-like smell that lasts multiple days could be a sign you have bacterial vaginosis, an infection that occurs when too much "bad" bacteria grows in the vagina.
Why does my blood smell like metal?
Don't worry, it's completely normal! In fact, it's pretty common. You may have had it before and just never noticed. That metallic smell comes from iron in your blood.
Why does my period smell so bad?
Greves says, but if all of a sudden your period smells seriously rotten, you may want to talk to your doctor. A particularly strong, fishy smell could be a sign of bacterial vaginosis, an infection caused by an overgrowth of bacteria in the vagina.
What does it mean when your tampon smells rotten?
Any of these symptoms should be a cue to get a professional opinion. A rotten smell, on the other hand, could be a sign that you’ve left a tampon in for too long, Dr. Greves says.
Do you smell blood when you get a cut?
Way less. Periods smell. That’s no secret, but you might be wondering why. When you get a cut on your finger, for example, the blood doesn’t have any smell at all.
Does period blood stay in the vagina?
Greves says. “But period blood stays in the vagina for a longer period of time. It’s exposed to the bacteria in the vagina, and that’s where you get that odor.”.
Can you use deodorizing wipes on your vagina?
But whatever you do, do not use a douche or deodorizing products, such as wipes and sprays. These throw off the natural bacteria in your vagina and cause infection. Change tampons or pads regularly, wear clean and breathable underwear, and be mindful of possible infections.
What does it smell like during your period?
Any odors you might notice during your period can also fluctuate. “Healthy” periods can have a slight smell of blood. They may even have a slight metallic smell from iron and bacteria.
What to do if your period smells?
If your period smells and you notice unusual symptoms , see your doctor. There could be something else going on.
What does it mean when you smell fishy?
You may have bacterial vaginosis if the “fishy” smell is accompanied by:
Why does my poop smell like it's down there?
A strong odor from “down there” may be cause for worry, as it could be a sign of an infection. In such cases, the odors are accompanied by other symptoms, such as vaginal discharge or pelvic pain that’s not related to normal menstruation.
Why does my tampon smell rotten?
A “rotten” smell can occur when a tampon is left in for too long or forgotten. This can happen at the end of a period, when you don’t have to insert a new tampon as often and you have no further bleeding.
Why do women have vaginosis?
While the exact cause of this overgrowth isn’t understood, bacterial vaginosis seems to be most common in women who are sexually active. Douching may also increase your risk for this type of infection.
How to stop menstrual odor?
Proper hygiene habits can help combat the usual odors associated with menstruation. This can be as simple as making sure you change tampons, liners, or pads every few hours.
Why does my period smell like copper?
When your periods smell like a copper coin then it is owing to the iron content in the blood and is not a matter of concern.
Is period blood smell bad?
You’re pretty sure that period blood smell is harmless, but you’re still dying to know what’s up with it.
Can you use deodorizing wipes on your vagina?
Also avoid using deodorizing products, such as wipes and sprays, don’t douche either , as the process can get rid of healthy vaginal bacteria causing infection, and wear breathable underwear.
In This Article
Popular vagina myth-busting ob-gyn Dr. Jen Gunter has an amazing saying: "It's a vagina, not a piña colada!" The point being, your vagina doesn't need to smell or taste fruity — or really, like anything else besides a vagina.
1. Metallic or Like Iron
"The period itself is basically endometrial tissue that's built up over the course of the month. If an egg is not fertilized and implanted, that lining is released," Taraneh Shirazian, MD, a board-certified ob-gyn with NYU Langone, tells LIVESTRONG.com.
2. Fishy
"As blood exits the vagina, especially if there's a lot of bleeding, it can change the pH of the vagina," Dr. Shirazian explains. When the normal bacterial balance of the vagina is thrown off, you may develop bacterial vaginosis, or BV. This can result in a fishy smell.
3. Sweet
Some vaginal bacteria can naturally have a sweet smell, according to Women's Medical Associates of Nashville. This is nothing to worry about.
What to Do About Period Odor
What you want to avoid is using any sort of fragranced feminine wipe designed to freshen things up down below. "The problem with these is that they just cover up the odor. The first step is always figuring out the underlying source and treating that," Dr. Shirazian says.
When to See a Doctor About Period Odor
A rotten or foul odor from your nether region warrants a trip to the ob-gyn, Dr. Shirazian says.
Is This an Emergency?
If you are experiencing serious medical symptoms, please see the National Library of Medicine’s list of signs you need emergency medical attention or call 911. If you think you may have COVID-19, use the CDC’s Coronavirus Self-Checker .
Why does my period blood smell fishy?
It’s a type of infection that gets treated with antibiotics. The bacteria gets mixed with blood, and due to its reaction with the iron content, it creates a funky smell.”
What does it mean when your period blood smells like rotten meat?
If your period blood smells like a rotten meat loaf, then it means that it’s time to change your sanitary pad or tampon.
Why does my period smell sweet?
If your period blood smells a little on the sweeter side, don’t get hassled because it is completely normal. This happens when the pH level of your vagina shifts more towards the acidic side.
Why does my vagina smell like onion?
“If your period blood has an onion-like smell, then it is an indication that your hygiene practices during the menstrual cycle are compromised.
Is period blood real?
Period blood odour is a real thing, ladies. Whatever your period blood smells like, it always reveals something about your overall health and well-being. Read on to know more. Your period blood is the window to your health. Image courtesy: Shutterstock.
Does blood smell like blood?
Well, blood is odorless. If you have ever experienced a finger cut, and if blood oozed out of it, then you must have observed there is no smell as such. But when it comes to your vagina, the blood down there stays for a while, and comes in contact with air and bacteria – hence, the foul smell.
Why does my period blood smell?
Why does period blood smell sweaty? Due to the apocrine sweat glands, located near your vagina. The sweat produced by these glands is secreted during times of anxiety or stress.
How long does it take for a period to stop smelling blood?
Ideally, period blood smell should be reduced within a week or two of its advent. However, if the smell persists even after the duration of menstruation and is followed by signs like stomach ache or cramps, fever, etc, you should consult the doctor immediately.
Why does my vagina smell?
Vaginal odor is directly related to hygiene. If it’s not kept clean, the smell wouldn’t be pleasant and such a situation could also lead to infections. Cleaning the intimate parts of your body is as important as the other areas and probably more.
Why does my period smell metallic?
You may notice your period blood smell to be slightly metallic in some months. This happens where there’s considerable iron content in the menstrual discharge. The color of the blood usually appears darker in such cases.
Does drinking water help with period blood?
It’s no myth that water and other healthy fluids flush out all the toxins from the body. Drinking water doesn’t just keep our body fresh and healthy, but it also puts a check on the intensity of the period blood smell.
