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Sherene says that she is becoming very concerned as she doesn’t have a vaginal discharge, but just recently has this high, bad-smelling vaginal odour all the time.

She asks Check Up what could cause this problem.

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Some vaginal odours are normal, although these are not usually described as foul or fishy. Some women always have a mild, musky vaginal odour which may become more prominent after sex or with the monthly menses.

During these hot times, normal sweating can also result in a vaginal odour. Regular ingestion of onions and coffee can change the vaginal smell.

Try taking probiotics regularly, discontinuing the spicy foods and drinking plenty water.

Despite not actually seeing a discharge, bacterial vaginosis, a vaginal infection which is indeed often associated with a discharge, is the most common cause of a vaginal odour.

SIGN OF INFECTION

Most women will experience a discharge, itching and burning; but for some women, the odour is the only sign of this infection. This infection is not thought to be an sexually transmitted infection (STI).

Forgetting to remove a tampon and leaving it in the vaginal tract for days will definitely result in a really bad odour coming from the vagina with no visible vaginal discharge.

Trichomoniasis, an STI, can also cause a bad vaginal odour. Sometimes a yeast infection also causes a change in the vaginal smell, but usually this is only slight.

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Other causes of a distinct vaginal odour include:

n Poor hygiene

n Use of scented condoms

n A connection opening up between the rectum and vagina

n Cervical cancer

n Vaginal cancer

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So, if you have a persistent vaginal odour which is not due to poor hygiene or a forgotten tampon or your diet, you should visit your doctor for a check-up now.

By the way, avoid douching, as it can lead to overgrowth, discharge and odour.

Write Check Up: PO Box 1731, KGN 8. Email: arnaj56@gmail.com