All the bad smells emanating from the body can be a big problem for those who are in close contact with people. Menstrual odors can be particularly annoying and potentially embarrassing for many girls. It is perfectly normal to give off a slight odor (the blood has a note of iron), but it is possible to mitigate that due to an alteration in the pH or the vaginal bacterial environment. By choosing the right products, maintaining proper personal hygiene habits and preparing for your period, you can decrease menstrual odor in general.
Steps
Method 1 of 3: Choose the Right Products
Step 1. Use the menstrual cup
If you are used to internal or external pads, switching to the cup is not easy, but this device allows you to fight bad odors more effectively. It is available in pharmacies and health food stores. In addition to this benefit, it allows you to save money and is more environmentally friendly than ordinary sanitary towels.
- If you wear the IUD, consult your gynecologist before using the menstrual cup, as it can move the threads.
- Change your menstrual cup every 12 hours or if you have a discharge.
Step 2. Change your tampon or tampon frequently
During menstruation, bad smells are due to bacteria and pathogens that proliferate when the blood stagnates for too long. Make sure you change it every 4-6 hours to avoid it. On days when the flow is light, you may only need 1-2 sanitary pads, while when your period is heavy, 8-10.
Step 3. Avoid using scented pads or pads
Fragrances can alter the vaginal pH, causing increased bacterial proliferation and therefore bad odors. It is also possible that they increase the predisposition to suffer from vaginal infections. There are many unscented products and some (such as reusable cotton pads) allow you to avoid contact with toxic chemicals commonly associated with disposable pads. In any case, there are also disposable tampons free of harmful substances, available in organic food stores.
Method 2 of 3: Have Good Personal Hygiene Habits
Step 1. Take a shower every day
Avoid harsh fragrances or soaps, as they can irritate the vagina. Apply a gentle cleanser with your hands to wash the vaginal area. This will also fight sweating, which can make the problem worse. On days with heavy flow, you may want to wash more than once.
Step 2. Do not do vaginal douches
They alter the normal vaginal bacterial balance. In addition, they are associated with numerous health problems, including candidiasis, pelvic inflammatory disease, and difficulties during pregnancy. Having a bidet and changing your sanitary napkin or cup can help mitigate bad smells.
Step 3. Avoid scented products, such as feminine wipes and deodorant sprays
They can cause vaginal irritation and bacterial imbalances. They can also increase vulnerability to infection. Since bacteria are usually the cause of bad odors, it is important to avoid these products. If you want to use a perfume, choose a classic one and apply it on your wrist or neck, while avoiding scented products for the genital area.
Step 4. If the odor persists or is accompanied by unusual (gray / greenish) discharge, see your gynecologist
Persistent / strange odors or leaks may be a symptom of a sexually transmitted infection, or other infections that require treatment. It is normal for the vagina to emit a characteristic odor and in this case it is not necessary to intervene. However, if it resembles fish or is different than usual, you should see a gynecologist.
Method 3 of 3: Prepare for Menstruation
Step 1. Bring another pair of briefs with you
Every woman hopes to be ready for any emergency, but sometimes it is forgotten that even the best menstrual products can cause bleeding, staining underwear and clothing. On days of heavy flow, it is a good idea to bring a spare pair of briefs and pants.
Step 2. Put on cotton panties to help your vagina breathe better and keep it dry during menstruation
Synthetic materials, on the other hand, trap moisture, causing bacterial growth.
Step 3. Wear soft clothing so your vagina can breathe and fight sweating
In addition, they are more comfortable in case of menstrual cramps. For example, wear gaucho pants, skirts, shorts, or baggy pants, while avoiding jeans or tight pants to promote good air circulation.
Step 4. Pay attention to what you eat
Certain foods, such as garlic, broccoli, or gorgonzola, can make vaginal odors worse. While it is not certain that they directly affect the odors associated with menstruation, it is certainly preferable to avoid foods that accentuate vaginal odors. Try to eliminate all potentially responsible foods, then gradually reintroduce them into your diet to figure out what the culprit is.
Advice
- Bring with you a pouch containing internal or external pads / spare cups, spare briefs, plastic bags to store used products and everything else you might need.
- If you are using a tampon and are concerned about leaking, also wear a thin panty liner.
- Bring an extra pair of briefs.
- When washing your vaginal area, avoid harsh fragrances or soaps.
Warnings
- If the odors emitted from the vaginal area change suddenly, see a gynecologist. The steps outlined in this article apply only to normal menstrual odors.
- If your menstrual cycle changes suddenly, go to the gynecologist.
