The Facts Behind Vaginal Odor

Vaginal odor can pose a serious problem to all women. Some women who do not know anything about this problem could just pass it off as a natural female odor. Well, think again. If the odor is too strong for you to notice it, something must be wrong. Vaginal odor can be common among females, and its degree differs vastly from one another. Now, let’s look deeper into this issue.


Causes of Vaginal Odor

The bacteria living in and outside the vaginal area can usually cause vaginal odor. It is medically established that there are good and bad bacteria existing in our bodies. The bacteria in the vagina are clinically called Gardenerella Vaginitis, with common name Bacteria Vaginosis. If this type of bacteria becomes imbalanced within the area or combines with some other types, then vaginal discharge appears. This discharge is the culprit causing such foul odor.


The discharge is usually grayish white in color and gives out a certain unpleasant fishy odor. If the odor becomes too foul you need to consult a physician. It is recommended that if you think that the odor is not normal anymore, better to address it swiftly and properly. Vaginal discharge, if not treated, can possibly lead to chlamydia of gonorrhea. It is always better to be safe than sorry.


Determining Vaginal Odor
An OB-Gyne effectively diagnoses vaginal odor, or any other problem in the female reproductive system. OB-Gyne stands for Obstetrician-Gynecologist, which is the expert in that part of the female body. What you think is a minor problem may not be anything like that at all. Self-medication is not advised.


Usually, these doctors will examine a sample of the discharge under a microscope. The main cause of the bacteria is not yet well established nor the other bacteria that are believed to unite with it. It could be from or because of yeast vaginitis or trichomonas, or a combination of both. Several findings are still being researched on.


Doctors can also do what is called a whiff test. The vaginal discharge will be mixed with a drop of potassium hydroxide. Once done, the mixture may or may not produce a stronger odor, depending upon the results.


Before a doctor does all these exams, a series of question would be asked to them help distinguish the severity of the problem. These are just routine questions whether fever occurs, any pelvic pains, and such. The patient’s history of sexually transmitted diseases can also be checked, and the questions may include her sexual activity and preference.


A physical exam has to be done as well. The doctor would check the pelvis, the vaginal lining, and the cervix. The ovaries and the uterus will also be checked using manual examination. If ever the cervix is found to be tender, there is a possibility of a much serious infection that what seems to be.


Recommendations
Health is essential. Vaginal odor may not seem to be a major illness but it can definitely cause major discomfort. Eliminating the symptom is advised. Be wary of products that just mask the symptoms and not prevent it altogether.


This is why professional help is advised over self-medication. Vaginal odor may not be that disturbing, but it can lead to a more serious problem like infertility. Remember that vaginal odor is a symptom, and not the main problem. This means something more severe could be in there. So to women out there, always be wary of your body. Take good care of it!