Vaginal health is an important part of overall well-being, but it’s often a topic that many people feel uncomfortable discussing. One of the most common concerns women face is a strong, unpleasant odor—sometimes described as smelling like rotten fish. While it can be alarming, it’s usually a sign that something is off in the body’s natural balance.
The Most Common Cause: Bacterial Vaginosis (BV)
A fishy vaginal odor is most often linked to bacterial vaginosis, a condition caused by an overgrowth of “bad” bacteria in the vagina. Normally, the vagina maintains a delicate balance of good bacteria (lactobacilli) that keep the environment healthy and slightly acidic. When this balance is disrupted, harmful bacteria take over, leading to a noticeable odor.
Symptoms of BV may include:
Strong fish-like smell, especially after intercourse
Thin, grayish-white discharge
Vaginal irritation or burning sensation (sometimes)
Other Possible Causes
While BV is the most common culprit, other factors can contribute to a strong, unpleasant odor:
Please Head On keep on Reading (>)