Experiencing a strong inner thigh odor or an odor *down there* can be distressing, especially when you’re unsure about the cause or how to get rid of it. However, unusual vaginal odor is a common issue that many people face, and there are various causes and solutions to explore. Let’s look at the causes of vaginal odor and briefly explore hygiene tips or medical treatments to prevent it so that you can feel more confident.

7 possible causes of vaginal odor

1. bacterial vaginosis: Bacterial vaginosis (BV) is a common condition that occurs when there is an overgrowth of bacteria in the vagina. This overgrowth can lead to a fishy smell and appear as thin, white, or gray vaginal discharge. BV can occur in people of any age, but it is more common in those who are sexually active or have multiple sexual partners.

2. yeast infection: Yeast infections are another common cause of unpleasant vaginal odors. They occur when there is an overgrowth of yeast in the vagina, and they can cause a thick, white discharge and a yeasty odor. 

3. hormonal changes: Hormonal changes can also contribute to unpleasant vaginal odor. People experience changes in their vaginal odor during their menstrual cycle, pregnancy, and menopause. During these times, there may be a change in the balance of bacteria and yeast in the vagina, leading to that unusual odor.

4. certain foods: Garlic, onions, and spicy foods, can affect the odor of your vaginal discharge. It's a good idea to pay attention to how your body reacts to certain foods and adjust your diet accordingly.

5. poor hygiene: Poor hygiene habits can also contribute to unusual vaginal odor. People who do not wash their lower areas regularly or do not change their underwear daily may experience an increase in odor. Wiping from back to front after using the bathroom can also lead to the spread of bacteria.

6. sweat and moisture: Sweat and moisture can lead to a buildup of bacteria and cause foul vaginal odor. It's essential to keep the vaginal area dry, especially during exercise on your period.

7. sexually transmitted infections (STIs): Sexually transmitted infections, such as chlamydia, gonorrhea, and trichomoniasis, can also cause vaginal odor. These infections can cause a variety of symptoms, including a foul-smelling discharge, itching, and pain during or after sexual intercourse.

Understanding the underlying cause of abnormal vaginal odor is key to finding the right treatment. Once you identify the cause, there are several tips on how to get rid of odor down there. In some cases, making simple lifestyle changes can help alleviate the problem. However, if the abnormal vaginal odor persists or is accompanied by other symptoms, it is important to seek medical attention.

Having a strong odor down there is nothing to be ashamed of! When you are on your period, give Thinx period underwear a try. Our underwear is designed with odor control technology to help you feel more comfortable. By practicing good hygiene habits, switching to Thinx, or seeking medical treatment when necessary, you can eliminate odors and feel more confident. 

At Thinx, we strive to provide our readers with the most up-to-date, objective, and research-based information. Our content is crafted by experienced contributors who ground their work in research and data. Articles contain trusted third-party sources that are either directly linked within the text or listed at the bottom to lead readers to the original source.

sources:

Cleveland Clinic. Vaginal Odor. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/symptoms/17905-vaginal-odor 

Everyday Health. What is Vaginal Odor? https://www.everydayhealth.com/vaginal-odor/guide/ 

Mayo Clinic: Vaginal Odor - Symptoms and Causes. https://www.mayoclinic.org/symptoms/vaginal-odor/basics/causes/sym-20050664 

WebMD. Why Does My Vagina Smell? https://blogs.webmd.com/womens-health/20141022/why-does-my-vagina-smell

by Team Thinx