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Period smell: What are the different types & how to keep it at bay

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Period smell: What are the different types & how to keep it at bay

Ever wondered why does period blood smells so much? Well don't worry, there's nothing wrong with period smell. When you menstruate, the inner lining of your uterus sheds, which mean there's blood, the unfertilised egg, and tissue exiting your body through your vagina. This coupled with healthy bacteria that is naturally present in your vagina cause the smelly period.

Different types of period blood smell
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Different types of period blood smell

The vagina has an acidic pH level, which keeps changing owing to the presence of blood, semen, or urine in the vagina, which affect its pH balance. All these changes cause different period smells. Which is why you would have noticed that you have different period blood smells. With multiple factors affecting your period blood smell, below are the common types of period smell.

Metallic period smell
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Metallic period smell

It is typical to notice a metallic smell in period blood and is nothing to worry about. It is owing to the presence of iron in the blood. The period smell, however, shouldn't last more than your period days.

Rotten period smell
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Rotten period smell

If you notice a rotten like period blood smell, it could be a problem. This is a common smell when you have forgotten a tampon or accidentally left it in for too long. You can either try to remove it yourself by locating the string of the tampon or have a doctor remove it.

Sweet period smell
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Sweet period smell

This is likely to happen thanks to the vagina's acidic environment and presence of healthy bacteria.

Body odour type of period smell
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Body odour type of period smell

You may, at times, notice that your period smell is similar to your body odour. This is because you have sweat glands in your genital area known as apocrine sweat glands. When apocrine sweat mixes with bacteria present on the skin, it produces body odour kind of period smell.

Fishy period smell
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Fishy period smell

You may notice a fishy odour during your period or smelly discharge after period. This could be a sign of an infection and needs to be looked into. Some common vaginal infections such as bacterial vaginosis or trichomoniasis result in a fishy smell.

How to combat smelly period
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How to combat smelly period

Period smell is generally not noticeable to other people.

Period smell is generally not noticeable to other people. And if you notice a spike in the odour, it most likely is related to your hygiene practices. While you cannot avoid having period blood smell, there are ways in which you can contain it. Here are some ways:

Change your pad with an appropriate frequency

1. Change your pad with an appropriate frequency. One of the best ways to avoid period smell is by staying fresh and clean. You can achieve this by frequently changing your sanitary pads and tampons, and choosing products of the best quality. With ALWAYS Ultra Thin Pads, you get up to 100% comfortable protection at all times. Armed with a super absorbent core with InstantDry system, it helps in absorbing menstrual discharge in just a few seconds. The pads also have flexible wings, which keep the pad in place so you can enjoy a fresh and clean day.

2. If you're a tampon user, change your tampon every four to eight hours. Choose ALWAYS' Tampax Compak tampons for a happy period experience. They come with a smooth, compact applicator for discretion. They also have a built-in protective skirt that helps in preventing leakage. These tampons also come in different absorbency levels so you can choose a fit that suits your needs the best.

3. Have a bath daily, especially when you're on your period. You don't need to use any vaginal washes to clean your outer vaginal area. Some warm water and a mild soap should suffice.

4. Avoid wearing tight clothes and underwear. You need to allow your skin to breathe. Wearing cotton underwear is much recommended as it improves breathability.

5. Do not use any douching methods to clean your vagina. Douching will eliminate all the healthy bacteria and leave you susceptible to infections that cause even more odour.

When to see a doctor?
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When to see a doctor?

Some period smells can be a sign of an underlying condition or infection. If you notice any unusual smells along with the below symptoms, you must see a doctor.

  • Vaginal fluids that are yellow or greenish in colour
  • Fever
  • Heavier bleeding than normal
  • Period cramps that are unusually painful.

Having period blood smell is completely okay. While some period smells are normal, some aren't, especially when coupled with other symptoms that could indicate a bigger problem. But you will only be able to truly notice any unusualness when you know the usual, that is, when you know your body and how it functions.

Read more about period symptoms, causes of irregular periods and what causes period pains.

FAQ

Can other people smell my period?

Period smell is generally not noticeable to other people. And if you notice a spike in the odour, it most likely is related to your hygiene practices.

How do you get rid of the smell of your period?

One of the best ways to avoid period smell is by staying fresh and clean. You can achieve this by frequently changing your sanitary pads and tampons, and choosing products of the best quality.

Is it normal to have a smell after period?

Yes, it is, since even after your period, there are traces of blood and uterine tissue in your vagina. And coupled with vaginal bacteria, it is bound to have some smell.

Disclaimer

Please note the date of last review or update on all articles. No content on this site, regardless of date, should ever be used as a substitute for direct medical advice, diagnosis or treatment from your doctor or other qualified clinician. Always is committed to ensuring that all of our products meet rigorous safety standards; Always pads prioritize safety, protection and comfort of its consumers.