Most women experience feminine issues from time to time. Feminine
odor is especially frustrating, because it can leave you feeling unclean
and gross, even if that’s not the case. There are lots of causes for
feminine odor, but here are the top four culprits.
BACTERIAL VAGINOSIS
Bacterial vaginosis (BV) is the most common cause of vaginal odor.
Every v**ina is filled with naturally occurring bacteria, and BV is
simply an overgrowth of those bacteria. Most women in their reproductive
years will experience at least one case of BV. The cause is unknown,
but unprotected s*x and frequent douching can put you at a higher risk.
Other symptoms include itching, soreness and discharge. Some cases of BV
will go away on their own, but Planned Parenthood recommends that all
women with BV symptoms visit their doctor for treatment to prevent rare
but serious complications. Treatment for BV is usually as simple as a
course of antibiotics.
YEAST INFECTION
A yeast infection is
also very common (and very uncomfortable!). They present signs much like
BV, with the addition of a thick, white discharge. Yeast infections do
not require antibiotics and instead can be treated with one- or
three-course vaginal anti-fungal treatments. Treatment for yeast
infections has become very simple and can even be purchased
over-the-counter. Most of these treatments tend to get messy, so it’s
better to use them overnight.
SEXUALLY TRANSMITTED DISEASES
Some STD’s can cause feminine odor, the most common are chlamydia and
gonorrhea. Both diseases are common and easy to treat, but can cause
serious complications if they go untreated. Unfortunately, both are also
often not quickly diagnosed because they may or may not produce
symptoms. The most common symptoms of chlamydia and gonorrhea include
painful urination and pus-like discharge, although an unpleasant odor is
often present as well. See your doctor immediately if you are
experiencing any of these symptoms and avoid risk by abstaining or using
protection during s*x.
PELVIC INFLAMMATORY DISEASE
Pelvic
Inflammatory Disease (PID) occurs when bacteria travel through the
v**ina into the uterus. It is often a late-stage result of an STD not
diagnosed, such as chlamydia. PID usually is not diagnosed until you
experience chronic pain or have trouble getting pregnant because
often,it does not present symptoms. If symptoms of PID are present, they
may include pelvic pains, odor, heavy discharge, fever, fatigue,
painful intercourse or painful urination. PID can be treated with
antibiotics, though it may leave behind scar tissue that has lasting
effects..
If you are experiencing any of these, the best bet is too see a medical doctor for proper treatment.