Why do people smell fishy on their period?
Sometimes, a fishy vaginal odor crops up just before the start of your period, due to changing bacteria and acidity levels. During menstruation, the blood (which has an elevated pH) and uterine lining mix with vaginal microflora, subtly altering the smell. Because of this, you might also notice a fishy vaginal odor after your period.
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.
Why do ants like period blood?
Like any other blood, period blood also contains sodium, which is critical for many ant physiological functions like balancing body fluids. Ants are also attracted to decomposing matter. Once period blood is released, it immediately starts decomposing. The decaying odor emitted attracts ants.
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.
Why does my period smell fishy?
This smell is often related to an infection, such as bacterial vaginosis or trichomoniasis. Bacterial vaginosis is a common vaginal infection caused by an overgrowth of bacteria in the vagina.
Why does my period blood smell metallic?
Period blood may smell metallic due to the presence of blood and iron.
How to get rid of blood smell during period?
Additionally, during menstruation, they should change a pad every time they go to the restroom and change a tampon every few hours.
What to do if you have a fever during your period?
A person should speak to a doctor if they experience a fever or severe pelvic pain during their period.
Does period blood smell?
Period blood can have different odors based on numerous factors. The following are common menstrual blood odors:
Do you have a period while pregnant?
People do not have a period during pregnancy, but should still be aware of vaginal health.
Is it normal to smell during your period?
Certain smells during a person’s period are completely normal. The vagina is an acidic environment with a balance of bacteria that produce odor. Some smells, such as a fishy or rotten smell, are unusual, and a person experiencing them should see a doctor for further investigation.
Why does my period smell fishy?
Believe it or not, menstrual blood has no odor. Neither does sweat for that matter. But, let’s be real, we have all experienced a smell or felt less than clean down there. First, menstrual blood is made of both blood and tissue that sheds from the uterus. When menstrual blood mixes with our own bodies, bacteria and odor may develop. Many describe this as fishy. Just like when we sweat. Perspiration has no odor, mix that with our body’s bacteria and we all know what that odor smells like. Noticing a fishy odor is common, and very likely unnoticeable to anyone else. Think about it, have you ever been able to tell if someone is on their period? To decrease odor, change your pad frequently. Assure you are using the pad or tampon with the right amount of absorbency. 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.
What causes fishy smells?
A fishy odor is a result of bacterial growth.
Why do sanitary pads smell?
If you use sanitary pads or tampons, the smell is even more prominent because these products absorb blood, and amplify
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 is period blood stretchy?
Period blood is stretchier than regular blood and it has clots. This is because it also has vaginal discharge in it. I don’t like it stretchy and clot-filled so I dip the blood in water and drink it like that.
How to get rid of odor during period?
Make sure you take a bath twice and wash your intimate area with plain water. Never with soap!
Do women with bacterial vaginosis have symptoms?
Many women with bacterial vaginosis have no signs or symptoms.
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 .
