Healthy diet and exercise play an important role in vaginal health. Walking and running helps tone up the pelvic floor. According to the Center for Young Women’s Health, here are some frequently asked questions and answers.
How do I know my vagina is healthy?
Every female has a natural vaginal scent that can change throughout her menstrual cycle. Every healthy vagina makes discharge. Normal vaginal discharge is usually clear, white, or light yellow and sometimes sticky. Your vagina and vulva area are usually healthy if you do NOT have an odor that is different for you or fishy smelling and you do not have itching, redness, or burning. It is important to know that some vaginal infections such as gonorrhea and chlamydia can cause no symptoms.
How do I know if I have a vaginal infection?
If you have a discharge that smells different for you or if the area around your vulva or vagina is itchy, red, or sore, you should make an appointment with your health care provider and get treated.
Not all vaginal odors are caused by an infection. Poor hygiene (not washing your vulva/vagina regularly with warm water and soap) can cause an unpleasant smell. Wearing tight fitting clothing or underwear made of nylon that doesn’t breathe can cause sweat and bacteria to get trapped which can also cause an unpleasant odor.
Courtesy of Center for Young Women’s Health.
All information is for educational purposes only. For specific medical advice, diagnoses, and treatment, consult your health care provider.