Vaginal odor during pregnancy is a common concern for many expecting mothers. The hormones and changes that occur in the vagina during pregnancy can lead to some odor, which is usually normal. However, a strong or foul odor may indicate an infection that requires medical treatment.
What causes vaginal odor during pregnancy?
There are a few reasons why you may notice more vaginal odor when you’re pregnant:
- Increased hormone levels – Estrogen levels increase during pregnancy, which can change the pH balance in the vagina. This allows more growth of bacteria, resulting in more odor.
- Increased discharge – Pregnant women often have more vaginal discharge, which provides more opportunity for bacteria growth and odor.
- Changes in sweat glands – More active sweat glands around the vaginal area during pregnancy also contribute to increased odor.
So in most cases, some mild or musty vaginal odor during pregnancy is normal and no cause for concern. It’s just a result of the changes going on in your body.
When does vaginal odor indicate an infection?
While some odor is normal during pregnancy, a strong fishy or foul smell may be a sign of infection. Two common infections that can cause vaginal odor in pregnant women are:
- Bacterial vaginosis (BV) – Caused by an overgrowth of normal vaginal bacteria. Symptoms include gray/white discharge and fishy odor.
- Yeast infection – Caused by an overgrowth of yeast. Symptoms include thick, white discharge and yeasty odor.
Other symptoms like itching, burning, and redness may accompany vaginal infections. It’s important to call your doctor if you notice these signs, as infections can be harmful if left untreated.
When should you call the doctor about vaginal odor?
Contact your doctor or midwife if you notice any of the following:
- Gray, white, green, or yellow discharge
- Fishy or foul odor
- Itching or burning
- Sores or bumps in the vaginal area
While some vaginal odor is normal during pregnancy, strong or irritating odors with other symptoms may indicate an infection or other condition that needs medical attention.
How is vaginal odor during pregnancy treated?
If you have an infection or other condition causing abnormal vaginal odor, your doctor will recommend appropriate treatment. This may include:
- Antibiotics for bacterial infections
- Antifungal medication for yeast infections
- Steroid creams/ointments for irritation
- Other medications to restore vaginal pH or flora
Make sure to finish any prescribed medications, even if the odor and other symptoms resolve quickly. This helps prevent the infection from recurring.
How can you prevent vaginal odor during pregnancy?
You can take some steps to maintain vaginal health and minimize odor during pregnancy:
- Practice good hygiene – Gently wash only the outer vaginal area with mild soap and water. Avoid douches and fragranced products.
- Wear cotton underwear – This allows more breathability.
- Change pads/tampons frequently – On heavy days, don’t let pads or tampons stay in too long.
- Avoid irritants – Such as scented pads or toilet paper.
- Don’t use antibiotics unnecessarily – They kill good bacteria and allow overgrowth of odor-causing bacteria.
- Treat yeast infections properly – Complete any prescribed medications, or they may recur.
Keep in mind that some vaginal odor during pregnancy is normal and not completely preventable. But focusing on vaginal health and hygiene can help minimize odor.
When to see a doctor
Mild or musty vaginal odor is common during pregnancy and is usually normal. However, see your doctor or midwife if you notice:
- Odor that is strong or foul smelling
- Gray, green, or yellow discharge
- Itching, burning, or soreness in the vaginal area
- Signs of infection like fever or abdominal pain
These could indicate a vaginal infection or other condition that requires medical treatment. It’s important to get abnormal vaginal symptoms evaluated to prevent complications.
Can certain foods or habits cause vaginal odor during pregnancy?
Diet and lifestyle factors typically do not have a direct effect on vaginal odor. However, some considerations include:
- Garlic, onions, spicy food – May indirectly cause more odor in sweat and bodily secretions.
- Alcohol – Can disrupt vaginal pH and flora, leading to imbalance.
- Smoking – Cigarette smoke is transferred throughout the body, possibly increasing vaginal odor.
- Douching – Removes healthy vaginal bacteria needed to prevent overgrowth of odor-causing bacteria.
The most direct way to prevent vaginal odor is through proper perineal hygiene and treating any infections. Diet and lifestyle changes likely have minimal impact.
When to contact your doctor about postpartum vaginal odor
Vaginal odor after giving birth is common due to:
- Lochia – vaginal discharge containing blood, mucus, and placental tissue
- Sweat and bodily secretions
- Changes in vaginal bacteria
However, call your doctor if you notice:
- Foul-smelling lochia after the first week
- Lochia that turns bright red after being brown or pink
- Heavy bleeding that soaks more than one pad per hour
- Burning with urination or abnormal vaginal discharge
These may indicate a postpartum infection requiring treatment. Most normal postpartum odor resolves within a few weeks.
Tips to prevent postpartum vaginal odor
To minimize vaginal odor after giving birth:
- Change pads frequently to avoid odor from lochia
- Gently cleanse vulva and perineum daily
- Wear cotton underwear to allow airflow
- Avoid douching
- Limit use of feminine sprays/deodorants
- Finish entire course of any antibiotics
Report any abnormal discharge, bleeding, or pain to your provider. Manage any infections promptly to prevent complications.
When will vaginal odor go away after giving birth?
Vaginal odor usually decreases within:
- 1-2 weeks – Odor from heavy lochia and postpartum sweating starts to resolve
- 3-4 weeks – Discharge transitions to more clear/white with less odor
- 4-6 weeks – Estrogen levels decrease back to normal pre-pregnancy levels
But, vaginal infections can develop any time in the postpartum period. See your doctor if foul odor persists beyond 2 weeks or if other symptoms arise. Odor accompanied by signs of infection requires prompt evaluation and treatment.
Conclusion
Some amount of vaginal odor during pregnancy and postpartum is very common and generally not harmful. However, foul smelling or irritating odors, especially when other symptoms are present, should be evaluated by a doctor. Prompt treatment of any infections can prevent complications. Maintaining good vaginal hygiene and health practices can minimize vaginal odor.