Kamil Perry
Vaginal odour is a common occurrence, and while it is usually nothing to worry about, sometimes it can indicate an underlying medical issue. A strong cheese-like smell accompanied by a thick, white, cottage cheese-like discharge could be a sign of a yeast infection or bacterial vaginosis. Other symptoms of a yeast infection include soreness, stinging when urinating, and itching or irritation around the vagina. Bacterial vaginosis is often characterised by a 'fishy odour, vaginal itching, and a grey-white-green discharge. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it is important to consult a doctor or medical professional.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| STD that smells like cheese | Bacterial vaginosis (BV) |
| Other symptoms | Vaginal itching, gray-white-green discharge, and a "fishy" odor |
| Cause | Overgrowth of anaerobic bacteria |
| Treatment | Antibiotics |
| Other possible causes | Yeast infection, poor hygiene, diet, or forgotten tampon |
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What You'll Learn
Yeast infections can cause a strong cheese smell
Vaginal odor is a fact of life, and while it is natural for vaginas to have a scent, changes in this smell can signal a health issue. A strong cheese smell could be caused by a yeast infection.
Yeast infections occur when there is an overgrowth of yeast in the vagina, caused by a change in the balance of bacteria. This can result in a strong cheese smell, as well as other symptoms such as a thick, white discharge that can look like cottage cheese, soreness, and stinging when urinating. The discharge can also be watery and often has no smell. Yeast infections usually cause the vagina and vulva to become itchy and red.
While thrush is not an STI, sex can trigger it. It can go away on its own, but it often requires antifungal medication to restore the natural balance of the vagina. Treatment options include pessaries (tablets inserted into the vagina), external cream, or oral tablets.
It is important to note that not all yeast infections will cause a strong cheese smell, and the presence of a strong cheese smell does not necessarily indicate a yeast infection. Other factors, such as diet and the menstrual cycle, can also influence vaginal odor.
If you are experiencing a strong cheese smell or other unusual symptoms, it is always best to consult with a medical professional for personalized advice and treatment options.
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Bacterial vaginosis may be the cause of a fishy odour
Bacterial vaginosis (BV) is a common vaginal infection that can cause an unusual vaginal discharge with a strong fishy odour. It is characterised by an overgrowth of anaerobic bacteria in the vagina, which produces a foul-smelling chemical compound called trimethylamine. This compound is also responsible for the distinct aroma of rotting fish. While BV is not a sexually transmitted infection (STI), it can increase the risk of acquiring other STIs, such as chlamydia.
The fishy odour associated with bacterial vaginosis may be noticeable, particularly after sexual intercourse. It can be accompanied by a change in the colour and consistency of vaginal discharge, often described as greyish-white and thin and watery. However, it is important to note that about half of the women affected by bacterial vaginosis do not exhibit any symptoms at all. The condition typically does not cause soreness or itching, but it may lead to increased vulnerability to infections due to reduced vaginal acidity.
If you suspect you have bacterial vaginosis, it is recommended to consult a healthcare professional, such as a GP or a sexual health clinic. They will assess your symptoms and may perform a physical examination, including testing the vaginal discharge. Bacterial vaginosis is usually treated with antibiotic tablets, gels, or creams. Recurrences of the infection are common, and prolonged use of antibiotics may be necessary to prevent future episodes.
While a fishy odour can be a symptom of bacterial vaginosis, it is important to note that there are other potential causes as well. In some cases, the odour may be related to an inherited condition called trimethylaminuria, where the body is unable to process trimethylamine efficiently, leading to a fishy smell in various bodily secretions, including vaginal secretions. Additionally, certain infections, such as trichomoniasis, a sexually transmitted infection, can also cause a fishy odour.
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Urinary tract infections can make the vagina smell like bleach
Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are a common cause of vaginal odour. UTIs occur when bacteria from faeces enter the urinary tract. The resulting infection can cause a strong bleach-like smell, which may be similar to ammonia or cleaning products. This odour is not typically indicative of an issue with the vagina itself, but rather the smell of urine caused by the infection.
Urinary incontinence, a condition where one cannot control their urination, can also cause a similar bleach-like smell. This is due to urine build-up in one's underwear or around the vulva. Urinary tract infections and urinary incontinence are the two main causes of a bleach-like vaginal odour.
It is important to note that a change in vaginal odour, especially if accompanied by other symptoms such as unusual discharge or itching, may indicate an infection or other underlying problem. Bacterial vaginosis (BV), for example, is a common vaginal infection that can cause a strong fishy odour. Trichomoniasis, a sexually transmitted infection, can also result in a similar fishy smell, along with a greenish-yellow discharge.
Other factors that can influence vaginal odour include hormonal changes, diet, and stress. For instance, consuming foods with strong odours, such as garlic or fish, can affect the scent of the vagina. Additionally, stress can lead to a stronger body odour, resulting in a skunk-like or sweaty scent in the vaginal region.
While it is normal for vaginal odours to vary, a persistent and unpleasant odour may indicate an underlying condition that requires medical attention. It is always advisable to consult a doctor if you are concerned about any changes in vaginal odour or if other symptoms are present.
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Trichomoniasis is an STI that can be treated with antibiotics
Trichomoniasis, often referred to as "trich", is a common sexually transmitted infection (STI) caused by a parasite called Trichomonas vaginalis. This parasite passes between people during genital contact, including vaginal, oral, or anal sex. It infects the lower genital tract, and in women, this includes the outer part of the genitals (vulva), vagina, opening of the uterus (cervix), and the urinary opening (urethra). In men, it infects the inside of the penis (urethra). Trichomoniasis is usually curable and can be treated with antibiotics.
Most people with trichomoniasis do not exhibit any signs or symptoms. However, when symptoms do develop, they differ between men and women. Women with trichomoniasis may experience a large amount of thin, foul-smelling discharge from the vagina, which can be clear, white, gray, yellow, or green. This discharge may have a strong odour, sometimes compared to rotting fish, decay, or dead organisms. In men, trichomoniasis rarely causes symptoms, but when it does, they may experience irritation when urinating or an unusual discharge from the penis.
If you notice any symptoms of trichomoniasis or suspect that you or your partner has been exposed to the infection, it is important to seek medical advice. Treatment for trichomoniasis typically involves taking antibiotics, specifically oral antibiotic medications such as metronidazole or tinidazole. In some cases, secnidazole may also be prescribed. These antibiotics work to kill the parasite causing the infection. It is important to follow your healthcare provider's instructions and take the medication as directed. Treatment duration may vary, with women typically prescribed metronidazole for seven days, while a single dose of the same medication is usually sufficient for men.
In addition to medical treatment, there are several steps you can take to protect yourself and others from trichomoniasis and other STIs. These include using condoms consistently and correctly during sexual intercourse, getting tested regularly for STIs, and informing your sexual partners if you have trichomoniasis so they can also seek testing and treatment. It is also advisable to limit your number of sexual partners and consider engaging in a monogamous relationship to reduce the risk of contracting or spreading trichomoniasis and other STIs.
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A tampon left inside the vagina can cause a putrid odour
> I can't tell you how many tampons I've taken out of patients. This happens to lots and lots of people.
The tampon may have been inserted during a period that was slowing down, or perhaps there was just a little spotting, and you wanted to wear a tampon instead of a panty liner. If the tampon's string disappears inside the vagina, it can be challenging to remember to remove it. However, it is essential to remove forgotten tampons as they can cause a strong, unpleasant smell.
The vagina is a closed environment, so the tampon will not have moved from where it was inserted. It is safe to remove it yourself if you can reach it. However, be prepared for an unpleasant smell and texture when you do so. The tampon will need to be disposed of in an outside bin.
If the odour persists after removing the tampon, or if there are other symptoms such as itching or burning, thick cottage cheese-like discharge, or pain, it is important to seek medical advice. These could be signs of an underlying condition, such as a yeast infection, bacterial vaginosis, or a sexually transmitted infection.
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Frequently asked questions
Bacterial vaginosis is often associated with a "fishy" odor, similar to rotting fish. This is due to the presence of the chemical trimethylamine, which is also responsible for the distinct aroma of rotting fish.
Trichomoniasis is a sexually transmitted infection (STI) that can cause a strong, unpleasant odor, which may be described as "fishy" or "rotten". It can also lead to symptoms such as itching, burning, and soreness in the vagina and vulva.
Yes, a yeast infection, such as thrush, can cause a strong, sweet, or cheesy smell, especially if it is accompanied by other symptoms like itching, burning, and a thick, white, cottage cheese-like discharge.
It is important to maintain proper hygiene by wearing cotton underwear, wiping front to back, and washing the external vaginal area with mild, unscented soap and water. Additionally, it is recommended to avoid douching and practice safe sex to maintain the natural vaginal pH. If the odor persists or is accompanied by other symptoms, consult a healthcare professional.
