Contents:
- Medical Video: The Hour of Honor | Critical Role | Campaign 2, Episode 24
- What is normal vaginal odor like?
- Why does the vagina smell slightly sour?
- Should you use feminine cleansing soap for a fragrant vagina?
- What does it mean if the vagina smells pungent?
Medical Video: The Hour of Honor | Critical Role | Campaign 2, Episode 24
The vagina may be a member of the body that often makes you worry. Because, many women feel reluctant or ashamed to ask doctors and medical personnel about vaginal health. Even though, like other limbs, you need to know your vagina well. One way to assess vaginal health is to recognize vaginal odor. However, first you have to know what a normal vaginal smell looks like. Here is the explanation.
What is normal vaginal odor like?
A normal and healthy vagina should not smell like flowers or fruits. Vaginal odor should also not be like drugs or chemicals. There is no part of the human body that emits a fragrant aroma because it is not necessary.
Every vagina has a distinctive odor, varying from one person to another. However, basically the vagina emits a rather sour smell like vinegar.
According to a survey conducted by obstetricians and reproductive health specialists from WebMD, dr. Heather Rupe, this scent can even smell from a distance of about 30 centimeters away. No need to worry, this is normal and should not disturb you.
Why does the vagina smell slightly sour?
Acidic vaginal odor comes from natural bacterial colonies and fluid produced by the vagina. The bacterial colony and this liquid are acidic, ie with a normal pH of 4.5. The acidity of the female organ is important to prevent bacterial or viral infections. Precisely if the acidity is disturbed, the vagina becomes more susceptible to bad bacteria, viruses, and other microorganisms that cause disease.
However, vaginal odor can vary with a woman's menstrual cycle. You may feel a stronger odor after finishing your period. In most cases, this is usually caused by hormonal changes or remnants of the lining of the uterus (endometrium) that are involved.
Should you use feminine cleansing soap for a fragrant vagina?
No, women don't need to use feminine cleansing soap to keep the vagina fresh. Keep in mind, the vagina is one of the organs that are independent and sophisticated. The vagina already has its own system to rid itself of various bacteria and germs. In addition, the vagina also contains many good bacteria that will prevent the growth of bad bacteria. These bad bacteria usually cause a pungent odor.
Meanwhile, feminine cleansing soap will disrupt the vaginal acidity (pH). This is because female soap cannot distinguish between good and bad bacteria. As a result, vaginal odor is even more intense even though after washing the vagina the smell is indeed fragrant like flowers. The fragrance is only temporary.
What does it mean if the vagina smells pungent?
Although the vaginal odor is rather acidic, the smell should not be stinging or unpleasant. As explained by Dr. Mary Jane Minkin from Yale University School of Medicine, a pungent vaginal discharge accompanied by excessive vaginal fluid may indicate bacterial infection or vaginal yeast infection. You can also have venereal disease such as gonorrhea or chlamydia. So, if you suspect a pungent vaginal odor like fishy or rotten, immediately consult a doctor.
