A KEY TO SYMPTOMS IN WOMEN: ODOR FROM THE GENITAL AREA
Sometimes a stronger than usual odor from the genital area indicates infection. Occasionally a woman inserts something into the vagina, such as a tampon, and forgets that it is there. Over time this, too, can cause a strong odor. It is not uncommon for a woman to think that an abnormal genital odor is her normal genital odor, especially if the odor has been there for a long time. Any unusual odor should be checked out by a health care provider. A woman should never douche in an effort to get rid of the strong odor. Douching will not cure the infection and will increase the risk of developing pelvic infection.
Bacterial vaginosis (BV). BV may cause a fishy odor in the genital area, often more pronounced after sexual intercourse and during menstruation. A fishy smell is not a normal smell from the genitals. Some women with BV may also experience a scant discharge and mild itching, but usually not significant irritation or inflammation. BV can sometimes be a sign that there is other infection in the genital area, such as chlamydia, but it may also be present exclusive of other infections.
Gonorrhea and chlamydia. Although it is not the most common symptom, strong genital odor may occur with bacterial infections of the cervix and pelvic organs. Other symptoms of these infections are discharge, spotting between periods, and pelvic pain.
Trichomoniasis. This protozoan infection can also produce a fishy odor from the genital area. There is usually much more discharge, itching, and irritation from the genitals than with BV
Yeast. Although genital itching and inflammation and a thick white discharge are the most common symptoms of a yeast infection, there may be a strong bread-like odor from the genital area as well.
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