What Causes Your Vaginal Smell to Smell Like Onions
The fragrance of vaginas varies depending on you, but it is typically moderate and natural. A strong and unpleasant odor, such as the scent of onions, might indicate an infection or another health concern, and should be avoided.
Naturally, the body creates a discharge that maintains the vagina clean and clear of dangerous germs and irritants, which helps to keep it healthy and free of bacteria. Cleaning the region around the entrance of the vagina, which is known as the vulva, is very important, and individuals must use caution in doing so.
It is rare that a strong onion scent is caused by nature, although it might arise as a result of sweating, poor hygiene, certain items in the diet, or illness.
We go into further depth about the probable reasons of this ailment and how to manage it.
There are seven probable reasons for this situation.
The following are examples of possible reasons of a vaginal onion odor:
1. Food Eating foods with a strong odor may have an effect on one’s body odor.
Personal hygiene Smelling your perspiration is influenced by a variety of factors including your diet and the meals you consume.
It is possible for sweat to interact with vaginal discharge to produce the odor of strong foods such as onions or garlic in the vaginal discharge.
In order for onions to have an impact on a person’s body odor, they would often have to consume more onions than they would normally consume.
2. tampon
When a tampon is not properly removed, it might produce an unpleasant stench. When there is a discharge, the stench might arise.
A strange hue may appear if there is discharge, and it might be anything from pink to gray to brown to green to yellow.
Frequent urination or intercourse may cause discomfort between the belly button and genitals, and itching and redness around the vulva may be present as well as other symptoms.
As soon as the tampon is removed, it is critical that the wound be closed. It is recommended that the client consult a doctor if they are unable to locate or remove the tampon.
There is a danger of toxic shock syndrome if a tampon is left within the body for an extended period of time (TSS). TSS is characterized by the following symptoms:
It is necessary to get immediate medical attention if you have fever and flu symptoms such as a headache, sore throat, or cough; a red rash on your skin; trouble breathing; or diarrhea. TSS should be treated as soon as possible if you are experiencing any of these symptoms and believe you may have it.
3. Hygiene is important to maintain good health.
By secreting a discharge, the vaginal system helps to maintain itself clean naturally. But it is important to routinely flush out any waste and maintain the region free of hazardous germs by washing it with warm water on a daily basis.
Given its proximity to the urethra and rectum, it is essential to clean the vulva thoroughly after peeing or passing feces.
People may mistakenly believe that urine has a strong odor because it is similar to the smell of vaginal secretions, particularly if there is undiagnosed pee leakage.
Vaginal health is maintained by a natural balance of bacteria; however, if there is an imbalance, it may lead to complications.
Simple hygiene practices may assist in maintaining the correct balance of vaginal bacteria and reducing the likelihood of an unpleasant odor forming in the cervix. This list of recommendations contains the following suggestions:
maintaining a daily regimen of clean undergarments
making a conscious decision to wear underwear made of a breathable, natural fabric like cotton
When washing the vulva, use a mild soap and warm water to avoid using douches or aromatic products. Shower on a frequent basis, especially after exercise. 4. The effects of estrogen and progesterone
In addition to fluctuating hormone levels throughout the menstrual cycle, hormone levels fluctuate throughout the body during pregnancy, perimenopause, and menopause. Vaginal odor may be affected by hormonal changes that occur in the body.
When the amount of the hormone estrogen in the body rises, the odor of the vaginal discharge becomes more evident. This will occur when a woman utilizes some hormonal contraceptives, as well as during ovulation and pregnancy..
The volume, texture, and aroma of vaginal discharge may all change over time, as can the consistency of the discharge. Normal vaginal discharge will not smell strongly or foully in the majority of instances. The presence of such a reaction might indicate an infection.
Vaginosis caused by bacteria.
BV (bacterial vaginosis) is an illness that occurs when the bacteria in the vaginal tract become imbalanced. In women aged 15–44, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), genital herpes is the most prevalent Trusted Source infection of the vaginal tract.
Bad breath (BV) is one of the symptoms that might occur. The following are possible symptoms:
the discharge is white or gray in color and is watery in consistency.
A higher chance of contracting the illness exists among people who engage in sexual activity and those who use douches, both of which will need the administration of antibiotics.
A doctor should be able to provide recommendations on how to avoid re-infection in future cases.
The disease of trichomoniasis is number six on this list.
Infection with trichomoniasis, a sexually transmitted infection (STI), may result in an unpleasant-smelling discharge. The vulva may feel itchy and the discharge may be yellow or green in color.
Medications will be prescribed by doctors to treat the infection, and it is common for them to advise patients to refrain from sexual activity until the illness is resolved. To ensure that the virus does not continue to spread, other sexual partners should get medical attention as well.
The presence of a yeast infection is number seven.
Yeast is found in the vaginal environment and is beneficial in maintaining its health and function. The yeast infection, on the other hand, might occur when the yeast multiplies at an abnormal rate.
Thick, white discharge may be produced by a yeast infection. The scent of this is usually hardly noticeable, although it may sometimes be offensive.
Itching, burning, and redness around the vulva are some of the other symptoms. With the use of antifungal medications, it is feasible to treat the infection.
Identifying the problem and addressing it
In order to determine the source of an onion-scented vaginal discharge, it is necessary to see a physician. They will inquire as to whether or not there have been any new symptoms.
Antibiotics may be prescribed if a bacterial infection is found to be responsible for the odor. A prophylactic drug, on the other hand, may be required if a person suffers from frequent or repeated illnesses.
If the vaginal area has a slight onion odor, maintaining a food diary might aid in determining whether or not nutrition is the source of the odor problem. A change in the body’s aroma may result from removing strong-smelling items from the diet.
Improved cleanliness practices may also have a positive effect.. Regular showering, using cotton underwear, and refraining from using scented or irritating items may all assist to lessen the presence of unwanted smells.
Prevention
In order to maintain excellent overall health, including a healthy vagina, it is necessary to eat a nutritious diet and engage in frequent exercise.
Exercises for the pelvic floor may assist to strengthen the muscles that support the vaginal opening and function more efficiently. Individuals who are suffering problems in this region, such as frequent urine leaks, may find this to be very useful to them.
In addition to using a mild soap while washing and refraining from using fragrant items, excellent hygiene habits may assist to prevent a bacterial infection from developing.
The use of cotton underwear helps to keep the vulva clean and free of bacteria and other contaminants. Cotton underwear may be found at clothing shops or on the internet for individuals.
Using barrier protection, such as condoms, while having sex may help prevent the transmission of sexually transmitted infections (STIs). A frequent examination for sexually transmitted infections (STIs) is also necessary.
In what circumstances should you see a physician?
Slight variations in the fragrance of the vaginal discharge, as well as the color and texture of vaginal discharge, are common throughout menstrual periods.
But the stench might become overpowering or even offensive in some circumstances. If this happens and the odor persists even after bathing and changing clothing, it is possible that an infection is at the root cause.
Unusual discharge, fever, discomfort, and itching are all possible indications of an infection. Many infections may be treated successfully with medications, and early intervention can assist to avoid consequences.
You bathed before you left the home. You even used soap, intelligent girl that you are. You sprayed yourself with deodorant and spritzed yourself with a spritz of your favorite perfume.
You’ve just been outdoors for five minutes, yet you think you can smell onions. You take a smell from your pits. Nope, they smell as fresh as a baby’s behind.
When you sit down at work, the reality is revealed in a gust of stench: the foul odor is emanating from your vagina. This is correct: you’ve contracted onion vagina, and you’ve contracted it in a severe manner.
Why does my vaginal odor smell like onions?
The onion vagina is a genuine phenomenon! It’s also nothing to be embarrassed of.
There are many different varieties of vaginas, and there are many various things that may go wrong with them. Onion vagina is a frequent ailment that may be caused by a variety of factors.
Let’s take a look at what’s causing your vagina to smell and how to get rid of that onion odor for a healthy vagina.
The meal that you ate
What is it about me that I smell like garlic down here? You know how when you eat garlic or onions, you can taste the onions and garlic for days afterward? That gunk sticks around in your mouth. That is something we all understand. I mean, the fact that certain meals make our breath stink is virtually the reason why Altoids were made (and thank heavens for them).
But did you know that the food you consume may also affect the way your vagina smells? It’s true! Onions, asparagus, garlic, and curry are some of the most popular meals that have been shown to alter the fragrance of your vaginal discharge.
Dr. Debora Nucatolah, the Medical Director at Planned Parenthood of Indiana and Kentucky, warns that consuming garlic and onions might cause a scent in your vaginal discharge that lasts for 24 to 48 hours.
What to do in this situation: Do you want to get rid of that smell? The only remedy is the passage of time. Give it a week, and that hard-working vagina of yours will very certainly correct itself, bacterially speaking.
Excessive sweating
So, guess what? Sweating is a normal part of human life. What exactly does sweat do? It helps you stay cool — and it also tends to stink. Guess what else has a distinct smell? Your vaginal fluids.
Sweat and vaginal secretions combine to produce a strong and intoxicating odor. Everyone has a unique experience. Some people describe it as smelling like old cat litter, while others describe it as smelling strongly of onions.
So, what is the best way to get rid of the onion odor?
What to do about it: To get rid of this stench, change your clothing regularly, shower frequently, and dress in natural, breathable fabrics.
Medications
Because medical technology is a marvel, many people have medicines that they take to help keep them healthy and well. However, these drugs have the potential to do things like make your vagina smell like an entrée from a posh French restaurant that has been left out in the sun for a couple of days. Barf.
Antibiotics, for example, destroy the bacteria that is causing you to be unwell, but they may also kill the bacteria that is in your vaginal flora. The unbalanced environment of your lady cave might cause foul odors.
What to do about it: The scent should go away on its own after you’ve finished taking the prescription. If it doesn’t, you should see a doctor.
Bacterial vaginosis (or another form of infection)
When the pH and bacteria in your vagina shift from their regular levels, you may find yourself on a one-way trip to BV city. Bacterial vaginosis (BV) is characterized by a rise in the levels of Gardnerella vaginalis bacteria in the vagina.
Because BV may cause your vagina to smell like onions, if you detect gray odd discharge in addition to the onion smell, it might be a clue that you have BV.
What to do about it: If you keep up with excellent hygiene and don’t shove anything up there for a while, BV should go away on its own. But if it doesn’t go away, you should visit a doctor who will treat you on antibiotics to help clean up the mess downstairs.
Trichomoniasis
Another form of illness that may cause your vagina to smell like onions is trichomoniasis, which is often thought of as a sexually transmitted infection.
It is caused by an infection with a protozoan parasite known as Trichomonas vaginalis. Despite the fact that the sickness manifests itself in a variety of ways, the majority of individuals who are infected with the parasite are completely unaware of their condition.
In order to get rid of this problem, you must first see your doctor. You will be prescribed medications to treat the illness. Of course, antibiotics may make the stench worse before it gets better, but you’ll be back on the road to health and a non-onion vagina in no time. Also, wear a condom the next time!
Bad personal hygiene
Your vagina can take care of itself because of the “good” bacteria that it produces. It does, however, need some maintenance. If you have body odor, it’s likely that you’ll have vaginal odor as well.
If you don’t wash your underwear often or change your underwear on a regular basis, it’s possible that an unpleasant odor may develop. Poor hygiene might not only give your vagina a terrible odor, but it can also lead to some dangerous illnesses.
What to do about it: Keep up with basic hygiene. Wash your labia and vaginal region with water on a regular basis, and change your underwear every day. Also, for a time, try to wear breathable cotton underwear instead of gorgeous silk and satin underwear.
Rectovaginal fistula
If you’re smelling onions, you may have a rectovaginal fistula, which is an unnatural hole between your rectum and your vagina. However, this is a very unusual and rare disorder in which the bottom section of your large intestine spills into your vaginal canal.
You may observe bowel contents spilling through, and it may cause gas or stool to escape via your vaginal opening. This may result in odd scents, which you may mistake for vaginal odor at first.
What to do if you believe you have this condition: Consult a physician. Surgery is the most frequent therapy for a fistula. In addition, your doctor may prescribe antibiotics to eradicate any infection as well as anti-inflammatory medications to minimize sensitivity and discomfort.
Yeast infection
A yeast infection might result in a thick, white discharge. Although yeast infections are mostly odorless, in certain circumstances they may have a disagreeable odor, similar to that of onions.
You may also experience itching, burning, and redness around the vulva.
What to do: Consult with your doctor, who will give you antifungal medicine. In the meanwhile, stay away from scented feminine hygiene products and tight-fitting clothes, prevent from douching, and replace your pad or tampon on a regular basis.
Hormonal changes
Hormone levels in the body fluctuate during the menstrual cycle, as well as during pregnancy and menopause.
When there is an elevated quantity of estrogen in the body, which causes your pH balance to be thrown off, you may find that your vaginal odor becomes more intense and perceptible. A high amount of estrogen may occur as a result of birth control, pregnancy, or ovulation. If your hormone levels are out of whack, your vagina will be out of whack as well.
What to do about it: Consult with a doctor, who can prescribe you topical medication to help eliminate the odor. You may also want to contact an endocrinologist to ensure that your hormones are in proper balance.
When to See a Doctor: If anything isn’t quite right with your body, it’s always a good idea to seek medical counsel from your doctor. However, in certain cases, the issues are so slight that you may not even need to schedule an appointment (for instance, if you just need to wash your vagina more often or change your diet).
However, if you are unable to resolve the issue on your own, a doctor may assist you. Your health is essential, and the sooner you discover a problem, the simpler it will be to resolve it.
You may also take preventative actions to keep your vagina healthy, such as maintaining excellent cleanliness, engaging in safe sex practices, using cotton underwear, and following a nutritious diet.
