Menstruation occurs when the egg released during ovulation is not fertilised to result in pregnancy. Menstrual fluid generated during periods consists of blood and uterine lining tissue which is not supposed to smell bad but if your menstrual discharge smells bad, in this article we will address this issue.

How does the period blood smell like?

Metallic:  Menstrual fluid can normally smell like metallic or copper coin due to the presence of iron in the blood.

Rotten: This is an unusual odour often caused when a person has accidentally left the tampon in the vagina for too long and can cause a sign of a problem until not removed.

Sweet: Sweet smell is due to the presence of bacteria in the vagina or  acidic environment.

Body odour: Smell similar to the body odour is due to the presence of Apocrine sweat glands in the genital region. The glands release this type of sweat during periods because of stress or anxiety.

Fishy:  Bacterial vaginosis is a common vaginal infection caused by an overgrowth of bacteria in the vagina and is the reason for the fishy smell released during the menstruation.

Trichomoniasis is another protozoan infection that causes a fishy smell and  can be pass to another person through sex.

What are the basic factors influencing the smell of menstrual blood?

pH Level: It is a measure of how acidic/ basic water is. The range varies for 0 to 14 with 7 being neutral, lesser than 7 indicate acidity and greater than 7 indicates a base. The pH level of the vagina is between 3.8 – 4.5 which is high on acid parameter. This is due to the presence of blood, semen or urine inside it.

Presence of healthy bacteria:  The vagina’s acidic environment and the presence of different type of healthy bacteria like Lactobacillus  play a role in the smell of vaginal secretion. Any disruption in this can cause infections and  problems.

How to improve the odour of period fluid?

– Personal Hygiene plays an important role. One should aim a regular bath to avoid  unwanted odours.

–  Pads or Tampons should be changed at frequent intervals during menstruation.

– It is advised to use ‘Gentle Hypoallergenic liquid washes’ to clean vulva instead of special cleansers, sprays or douche.

What special care should be taken during pregnancy?

If anyone experiences unusual changes in vaginal discharge or strange odours during pregnancy, then they should speak to doctors because there is a risk of vaginal infection due to the presence of yeast and bacteria in the vagina.

Thus its advised to visit doctor in case of Green or Yellow Vaginal discharge, a fever , severe pelvic or heavier bleeding than normal.

Vaginal Discharge & Infections – Explained Dr. Nita Thakre, Gynecologist