What do pads smell like

And for the future: You should only use a tampon for up to 8 hours! The best way to know whether a vaginal odor is normal? Simple: Smell your vagina a lot. Get to know the variations of your discharge at different points of the month. How do you know if you have a vaginal yeast infection? Know the signs, symptoms, risk factors, and get tips for preventing yeast infections.

Vaginal discharge is common; however, there are certain signs like color, consistency, odor, and texture that can indicate greater health concerns. Get answers to your period questions around menstrual cycle duration, symptoms, discomfort, and more.

Not Normal. Related articles:. Vaginal Discharge: What It Is, Why It Happens, and What Different Types Mean Vaginal discharge is common; however, there are certain signs like color, consistency, odor, and texture that can indicate greater health concerns.

All Your Period Questions, Answered Get answers to your period questions around menstrual cycle duration, symptoms, discomfort, and more. Wondering why you have a strong odor down there?

Learn the various types of vaginal odors and their causes. Good hygiene practices can also combat normal period odors and make you more comfortable during menstruation. The strong smell is likely due to the blood and tissues exiting the vagina along with bacteria. You might be able to control such odors by changing pads and tampons frequently, especially during heavy-flow days.

If your period smells and you notice unusual symptoms, see your doctor. There could be something else going on. Unlike other common odors, fishiness usually indicates a medical problem that you need to see a doctor for. This odor is most often attributed to bacterial vaginosis , a type of infection.

It results from the overgrowth of normal vaginal bacteria. Douching may also increase your risk for this type of infection. Bacterial vaginosis is treated with antibiotics. Once the bacteria is balanced out after treatment, you should no longer notice any unusual smells or other symptoms during your period. These are most likely caused by not practicing good hygiene during the menstrual cycle.

Proper hygiene habits can help combat the usual odors associated with menstruation. This can be as simple as making sure you change tampons, liners, or pads every few hours. Daily showers are also important, and you can help prevent period odors by cleaning the outside of your vagina only.

Avoid scented tampons and other products, as these can cause irritation and allergic reactions. Purchase breathable cotton underwear here. While some odors are completely normal when you have your period, others may be a sign that you need to see your doctor. Other symptoms include burning especially during urination , itchiness, and abnormal vaginal discharge.

Any of these symptoms should be a cue to get a professional opinion. Feel around the opening of your vagina for a string or feel inside for the tampon itself. Greves says changing your tampon or pad frequently is key. How often you need to change to avoid any odor will depend on your flow, but you can experiment to see what works for you.

Proper hygiene should be enough to make the smell manageable. But whatever you do, do not use a douche or deodorizing products, such as wipes and sprays. These throw off the natural bacteria in your vagina and cause infection. Change tampons or pads regularly, wear clean and breathable underwear, and be mindful of possible infections.