Fishy Vaginal Odor

Vaginal discharge is a normal sign that helps keep the reproductive tract clean. It's not a big deal if it's normal vaginal discharge. However, if the discharge is thick and has a foul odor it can be a sign of a serious health issue.

Fishy vaginal odor can be a sign of pelvic inflammatory disease, bacterial vaginosis or vaginal yeast infections. A fishy vaginal odor can also be caused by vaginal sprays or douches that alter the vaginal flora and pH levels.

Vaginal Discharge

A vaginal discharge with a strong foul smell is usually associated with bacterial vaginal infection, which makes sense due to the vaginal discharge's nature to keep the reproductive tract clean. The vaginal discharge is meant to be slightly acidic, so if it becomes too alkaline (which can happen with vaginal douches) vaginal infections are more likely.

The vaginal flora consists of beneficial bacteria that protect the vaginal mucosa. If something happens to imbalance this process or wipe them out (such as vaginal douches), vaginal infections are more likely to occur.

The vaginal discharge is meant to be slightly acidic, so if it becomes too alkaline (which can happen with vaginal douches) vaginal infections are more likely. The vaginal pH level should be around 3.8 - 4.5 for healthy vaginal flora; the lower the vaginal pH level, the more acidic it is. Bacterial vaginosis is one vaginal infection that can cause a vaginal discharge with a strong fishy odor, especially after intercourse or when you're aroused.

Vaginal Odor Treatment

Fishy vaginal odor can be a sign of vaginal yeast infections, which are caused by an overgrowth of the vaginal fungus candida albicans. The fungi lead to vaginal itching, burning and a thick, white vaginal discharge with a fishy vaginal odor.

It may be a vaginal yeast infection if you experience vaginal itching, dryness and a burning sensation during intercourse. Vaginal yeast infections are more likely to occur when your vaginal pH level is high (greater than 4.5), but they can also occur if the vaginal flora becomes disrupted for any reason, or after taking antibiotics.

You can treat the vaginal odor with flower power vegan boric suppositories. These vaginal suppositories have a natural antiseptic called boric acid, which fights vaginal infections and reduces vaginal odor. Flower power vaginal suppositories are made with natural ingredients that are vegan, organic and cruelty free. The vaginal suppositories can be inserted in the vagina to treat vaginal itching, vaginal yeast infections or vaginal odor.

Fishy vaginal odor may also be a symptom of vaginal wall prolapse or urinary tract infections (UTIs). Women who have vaginal wall prolapse experience vaginal discharge, vaginal discomfort and vaginal odor. Vaginal wall prolapse is caused because pelvic muscles lose their strength due to childbirth, weight gain or chronic coughing. Vaginal infections are caused when vaginal wall prolapse allows the vaginal walls to rub together, which irritates vaginal tissues and leads to vaginal discharge with a fishy vaginal odor.