Being on your period often feels like a rollercoaster of physical and emotional changes. Your periods should be fairly consistent throughout your menstruating life, but once in a while, things can change. One of those symptoms can be the smell of your period.
Is it normal for period blood to smell?
Period blood can smell, and that’s normal. Normal smells consist of well, blood, or a slight metallic smell that stems from iron and bacteria. While you might notice period blood smells, others probably don’t and shouldn’t. If odors become strong, it might not be from just period blood. Maintaining good feminine hygiene can help keep smells down. Our leakproof underwear is designed to protect from all kinds of leaks. Flow with a little bit more peace of mind with reusable period underwear from Proof®.
What causes period blood to smell?
Period blood can sometimes be a little smelly, but it may surprise you to learn that, in most cases, your period isn’t the one to blame. One of the biggest reasons why period blood smells is because it has to exit through the bacteria-filled vagina.
While bacteria can be healthy and helpful, it’s also one of the main sources of unpleasant smells in the human body. Bad breath, body odor, stinky feet, and strong vaginal odors are all caused by odorants produced by resident bacterial flora. If you have an infection or a foreign substance like semen present in your vagina, it can disrupt your pH levels and cause strong odors to emerge.
Period blood smells and what they mean
Over the years, you might start to notice varying period blood smells – don’t worry, you’re not the only one curious. As you may have assumed, the smells can be caused by various things and mean various things.
Here’s a quick breakdown of the most common period blood smells and the common causes:
Metallic: Think about the smell left on your hands after holding a copper coin. If you notice a metallic-like smell similar to that in your period blood, it might be from the presence of iron in your blood. This smell is the most common and isn’t normally a cause for concern.
Sweet: Some women have reported experiencing an almost sweet smell coming from their period blood. This is most often the result of your period blood reacting with the acidity of your vagina.
Body odor: It’s not out of the ordinary to notice the smell of your period blood closely resembles body odor, especially after exercising. In most cases, this smell is not actually coming from your period blood but the skin around your vaginal opening. Sweat released by glands in your genital area mixes with bacteria on your skin to create strong odors similar to B.O.
Fishy: Fishy smells may be a sign of infection. This smell often will persist after your period ends and may be accompanied by other symptoms, such as unusual-looking vaginal discharge, itching, burning, or tenderness in your genital area. Rest assured, most infections can be treated and resolved quickly.
Rotten: Period blood smells rotten when a foreign object has been left in the vagina for too long, for example, a tampon. When using tampons as period protection, be mindful about changing them frequently.
What do bad period blood smells mean?
Naturally, smells can happen down there, period or not. While smells can be harmless, there are some instances where they are a sign of infections or other issues. If smells persist or you are concerned, contact your doctor.
When should I speak to my doctor?
As a female, you probably have an annual exam with your OB GYN or nurse practitioner. This is a great place to ask questions you may have, like about various smells down there. Normal smells down there might interfere with your confidence. Our period underwear is designed to promote comfort, confidence, and protection - all in one. From cute styles to buttery-soft materials that move with your body and our triple patented Leak-Loc® technology, we’ve got your back.
There are some instances when you might want to see your doctor sooner. Strong discharge and or smell that persists can flag a means to contact your doctor. Additionally, if you’re uncomfortable, talk to your doctor to find solutions that can help you feel better.
How to prevent period blood from smelling so bad?
Finding solutions is something we love to do. When it comes to the smell of period blood, embrace your healthy body and practice good vaginal hygiene. Additionally, try taking a nightly bath - good for the period blood smell and your well-being. Eating a healthy, well-balanced diet and exercising regularly can help maintain the pH levels in your vagina and prevent infection.
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Sources:
Healthline. Why Does My Period Smell?
https://www.healthline.com/health/why-does-my-period-smell#_noHeaderPrefixedContent
Grace.health. Help, My Period Blood Smells!
https://www.grace.health/post/help-my-period-blood-smells
Medical News Today. What Does Period Blood Smell Like and Why?
https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/325878#types-of-smell