We’ve all heard jokes or seen shocking images like the one above, but beneath the humor lies an important health conversation that too often gets ignored: unusual vaginal odor—especially one described as “fishy”—is not normaland usually signals that something in the body is out of balance.
So, what’s really going on when this happens?
🧬 The Real Reason Behind the “Fishy” Smell
The most common medical cause of a strong, fish-like vaginal odor is a condition called bacterial vaginosis (BV).
🦠 What is Bacterial Vaginosis?
BV occurs when the natural balance of bacteria in the vagina is disrupted. Normally, healthy bacteria called lactobacillidominate and keep things in check. But when harmful bacteria overgrow, they create that unmistakable odor—often described as “fishy”—especially after sex or during menstruation.
🚩 Other Possible Causes to Know
While BV is the most common culprit, other factors might contribute:
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Poor hygiene or overly aggressive washing (especially with scented soaps)
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Sweaty, tight clothing or synthetic underwear
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Sexual activity with new or multiple partners
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Certain STIs like trichomoniasis
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Diet and hydration (yes, what you eat affects your scent!)
🧼 The Clean Truth: Stop Over-Cleansing!
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