Period FAQs

why does period blood smell

by Roberto Gottlieb Published 2 years ago Updated 1 year ago
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The strong smell is likely due to the blood and tissues exiting the vagina along with bacteria. It's normal for the vagina to have bacteria, though the amount can fluctuate. The resulting “rotten” smell from bacteria mixed with menstrual flow shouldn't be strong enough for others to detect.

Full Answer

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!

Why am I peeing blood during my period?

“Typically, any kind of blood thinner can cause periods to be heavier and cause bleeding,” says Johnson. Supplements like ginkgo biloba also have blood-thinning properties that could affect your flow, adds Mamik.

Why does my period start with brown blood?

When there is no pregnancy, brown discharge may be caused by:

  • old blood leaving the uterus a few days after the end of a period
  • a period just beginning to start, where the flow is very light
  • ovulation spotting, which may be pinkish-brown
  • a reaction to a Pap smear test or vaginal exam
  • a reaction to having sex, especially if vigorous

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How do I stop my period blood from smelling?

One of the best things you can do to prevent strong period blood smells is to practice proper vagina care and good hygiene. Eating a healthy, well-balanced diet and exercising regularly can help maintain the pH levels in your vagina and prevent infection.

Why does my period blood smell fishy?

Bacterial vaginosis (BV) If you have it, you'll likely notice a fishy smell down there, which may mix with blood during your period to cause an especially pungent odor. Other symptoms of BV include: Burning, especially while urinating or during sex.

Can people smell my period?

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 guys smell when a girl 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.

What is the normal smell of Virgina?

The vagina usually has only a mild odor or sometimes no odor at all. A "fishy" smell or other strong vaginal odor might mean there's a problem. Conditions that cause a strong vaginal odor might also cause other vaginal symptoms such as itching, burning, irritation or discharge.

Can other people smell your period blood?

Sometimes, unusual smells during a person's period are related to hygiene practices. Generally, period blood smells are not noticeable to other people. A person should aim to bathe daily to improve unwanted odors.

Why does my period stop every time I put a tampon in?

I know sometimes it seems like your period stops when you have a tampon in, but actually, the tampon is just temporarily blocking the blood from coming out of your vagina. It acts like a barrier for the liquid coming out. That's a good thing because if it didn't, it might get all over your clothes!

Why are there blood clots in period?

What are period clots? During menstruation, the hormones in your body cause the lining of your uterus to begin shedding. During that process, small blood vessels bleed. To prevent your body from losing too much blood, plasma and platelets work together to form blood clots.

How do I get rid of the odor down there?

Avoid tight underwear, pantyhose, and girdles.Maintain a Healthy Weight. Often, “vaginal odor” doesn't come from the vagina at all. ... Switch to Tampons or a Menstrual Cup. Sanitary napkins frequently present a more noticeable smell. ... Use a Condom and Pee After Sex. ... Don't Douche.

What does implantation bleeding smell like?

Decidual blood and implantation blood are usually light in flow and therefore browner and more tart smelling by the time they make it out -- since they would happen in the second half of the cycle when the pH makes the mucus more acidic and tart rather than sweet. Hope this helps!

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