How To Get Rid Of Vaginal Smell? 5 Natural Home Remedies And Hygiene Practises You Should Look Into

Vagina odour or vaginal smell can be a real lifestyle problem most women face out there. However, they can get rid of it with natural home remedies and hygiene practices. Although one cannot expect vagina to smell like daisies and daffodils, it is essential to look into the problem if the odour is strong. Good hygiene and lifestyle practices can help women manage and eliminate unwanted vaginal odours. Now what is vaginal ordour? It is any smell that comes from the vagina. It could be produced by healthy vaginal secretion or an unpleasant, abnormal smell cause by infection.

Mostly vaginal odour undergoes change throughout menstrual cycle or other times, like prgnancy or perimenopause. Apart from the main causes of vaginal smell like sweating, bacterial vaginosis, douching and others, food also plays a major role in making the vagina smell bad. What foods one eats can contribute to how the bodily fluids smell. Vaginal smell could be coppery, musky, meaty or fleshy. The problem arises when the odour is too bad and persistent. However, don’t worry! Here are five natural remedies and hygiene practises women should look into to get rid of vaginal smell.

Natural Home Remedies To Make Vagina Smell Good

Probiotics

Whether from food or supplements, probiotics help maintain the balance of bacteria in the vagina. Lactobacillus is a beneficial bacterium in probiotics that helps prevent infections and reduce odour. Incorporate probiotic supplements into your routine or eat probiotic-rich foods daily.

Apple Cider Vinegar

Known for antibacterial and antifungal properties, apple cider vinegar (ACV) helps restore pH balance of vagina and reduce odour. Add a cup of ACV to your bath water and soak for 20 minutes. You can also dilute ACV with water and use it as a gentle wash.

Baking Soda

Baking soda helps neutralise body odours by balancing pH levels. Add a half cup of baking soda to your bath water and soak for 15-20 minutes. 

Tea Tree Oil

The natural antifungal and antibacterial properties in tea tree oil make vaginal smell good. Dilute a few drops of tea tree oil with a carrier oil (like coconut oil) and apply it externally. You can also add a few drops of tea tree oil in water and gently rinse your vagina with it.

Garlic

This is a natural antimicrobial ingredient that helps fight infections that cause odour. Eating raw garlic or taking garlic supplements can be beneficial for the vaginal health. 

Hygiene Practices To Incorporate Into Daily Routine

Wash And Clean: It is necessary to wash the vulva gently with warm water. Avoid using harsh soaps or scented products that disrupt the natural pH balance. Pat the area dry after washing to avoid excess moisture. 

Wear Breathable Fabrics: Opt for cotton underwear that allows the circulation of air and reduces moisture build-up. Avoid tight-fitting clothes and synthetic fabrics for prolonged periods.

Change Menstrual Products Regularly To Allow Vagina Smell Good (Image Credits: Canva)

Balanced Diet And Hydration: Add probiotic-rich foods like yogurt, kefir and fermented foods to promote healthy vaginal smell. Include fruits, vegetables and whole grains in your balanced diet. Avoid foods containing excess sugar and also processed foods. Drink enough water to maintain overall health and stay hydrated. Drinking sufficient water also helps the body to flush out toxins.

Healthy Sexual Practices: Use protection during sexual activity to reduce the chance of infection. Besides, it is important to urinate after intercourse to prevent bacterial growth. 

Change Menstrual Products Regularly: Use unscented tampons, pads or menstrual cups and change them after evert four to six hours to prevent vaginal odour and infections.

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