Every vagina has a natural scent that changes throughout your menstrual cycle. But this smell should never be unpleasant.

A bad smell can be caused by:

• Not washing regularly.
• Wearing tight fitting clothing or fabric that doesn’t breathe. This can cause sweat and bacteria to get trapped.
• Not changing your tampon or sanitary pad regularly.
• A vaginal infection such as thrush (yeast) or bacterial vaginosis (which has a “fishy” odour).
• A sexually transmitted infection.

How to tackle a smell:

• Wash your vagina every day with water.
• Never use products such as douches or sprays that go inside the vagina. They remove the natural bodily fluids that clean the inside of your vagina.
• Wear loose or cotton underwear.

If your vaginal odour doesn’t go away, visit a clinic. If you have an infection, they can diagnose and treat you, and if necessary, also your sexual partner. Get checked out sooner rather than later to avoid bigger health problems!