Menopause Blues? Don't Let Vaginal Odour Be One of Them

Breaking the Silence: Discovering the Connection Between Menopause and Vaginal Odour

Let's get to the bottom of it. Yes, It's the hormones again.

The main reason for menopause and vaginal odour is a drop in estrogen levels. Estrogen is a hormone that helps keep your vaginal tissue healthy and maintains the proper pH balance. It also promotes the growth of good bacteria that keep fishy vaginal odours at bay.

But, when your estrogen levels decrease, your vaginal tissue becomes thinner, less supple, and more prone to infections and irritation, which can cause odours to develop. Plus, the shift in pH balance can create an environment where vaginal odour during menopause cause bacteria to thrive, leading to an unpleasant smell.

Now, a few other things can contribute to vaginal odour during menopause, such as poor hygiene or wearing tight-fitting clothes or synthetic underwear. So, it's essential to care for yourself by washing thoroughly, wearing breathable fabrics like cotton, and using gentle soaps and intimate washes.

Vaginal odour during menopause is entirely typical! Proper hygiene and care can reduce your risk of developing odours and maintain a healthy and happy vagina. And remember, there's no shame in seeking help or advice from your doctor, so don't hesitate to reach out if you need it.

What are the Different Types of Vaginal Odour?

When it comes to vaginal odour, there's no one-size-fits-all solution. Various factors can cause it, and the smell and intensity can vary. Here are some examples of different types of vaginal odour:

Menopause Fishy Odour: It is the most common type and is often described as a fishy smell. It's usually caused by bacterial vaginosis, an infection that occurs when bacteria in the vagina's natural balance gets disrupted.

Sweet or Fruity Odour: A sweet or fruity odour can be a sign of uncontrolled diabetes. This type of odour occurs when there is excessive sugar in the urine, which can lead to bacterial overgrowth in the vagina.

Musty or mouldy odour: This type of vaginal odour can be caused by poor hygiene practices or tight, non-breathable clothing. It can also be a sign of a yeast infection, which occurs when yeast is the overgrowth in the vagina.

Metallic odour: This can very well be a sign of a forgotten tampon or other foreign objects in the vagina. It can also be caused by a change in hormone levels during menopause.

Strong and pungent odour: A strong and pungent odour can be a sign of a sexually transmitted infection (STI), such as trichomoniasis. This odour may be accompanied by itching, burning, and discharge.

It’s important to remember that various factors can cause vaginal odour during menopause, and it’s not always a sign of infection or illness. However, if you are experiencing persistent vaginal odour, you must speak with your healthcare provider for proper diagnosis and treatment. With proper care and attention, you can maintain a healthy and balanced vaginal environment with proper care and attention.

Does Vaginal Discharge Change during Menopause? 

It's a common question! And the answer is yes!

During menopause, women may experience changes in their vaginal discharge. 

Decreased oestrogen levels can cause the vaginal walls to become thin and dry, reducing the amount of vaginal discharge. This can also make the vagina more susceptible to infections, which can cause abnormal discharge.

While vaginal discharge during menopause may be less, it should not have an unpleasant odour or be accompanied by itching or burning. If the discharge is thin, clear, or white, it may be due to reduced oestrogen levels and is considered normal during menopause.

Breath of Fresh Air - Tips and Tricks to Prevent Vaginal Odour

It's not too tough to combat vaginal odour. There are several steps you can take to prevent it:

• Maintain good hygiene: Washing the vulva and vagina with mild, unscented soap and water can help to prevent an accumulation of bacteria and dead skin cells. It's important to wipe from the front to back after using the toilet to avoid spreading bacteria from the anus to the vagina.
• Avoid using harsh soaps, bubble baths, and scented products: These can disrupt the natural pH balance of the vagina and cause irritation and Odour. Instead, switch to implementing natural remedies for vaginal odour.
• Wearing breathable underwear: Choose cotton underwear always and avoid tight-fitting pants or pantyhose for longer durations.
• Avoid douching: Douching can disrupt the natural balance of bacteria and pH in the vagina and lead to Odour.
• Practise safe sex: Using condoms and getting regular STI screenings can help to prevent vaginal infections that can cause Odour.
• Stay hydrated: Drinking enough water can help to flush out toxins and keep the vaginal area clean.
• Keep the vaginal area dry: Avoid sitting in wet clothes or swimwear for long periods, and change out workout clothes as soon as possible.
• Follow a balanced diet: Eating a healthy diet, focusing on whole foods can help maintain a healthy vaginal pH and prevent Odour. Indeed one of the best home remedies to get rid of vaginal odour. 

Food for Thought! How Diet and Nutrition Can Boost Your Vaginal Health

During menopause, the body's oestrogen production decreases, which can cause changes in the vaginal pH balance, making the vagina more susceptible to infections. Eating a diet that supports a healthy vaginal pH can help to prevent menopause genital odour and infections.

Eating a balanced diet rich in whole foods and low in processed foods can also help maintain a healthy weight, which can help reduce the risk of chronic health conditions such as diabetes, which can contribute to vaginal odour.

A diet that promotes a healthy vaginal pH and overall vaginal health during menopause may include the following:

• Fruits and vegetables: These are high in antioxidants, which can help to protect the vaginal tissue and promote overall health.
• Whole grains: Brown rice, quinoa, and oats can help to promote regular bowel movements, which can help to prevent constipation, haemorrhoids and anal fissures in some cases.
• Lean protein: Chicken, fish, and legumes can help to maintain a healthy weight and reduce the risk of chronic health conditions such as diabetes, which can contribute to vaginal odour.
• Probiotics: Foods such as yoghurt and fermented foods like kimchi, sauerkraut, and kefir are rich in probiotics, which can help to promote the growth of healthy bacteria in the gut, which can help to maintain a healthy vaginal pH balance.
• Drinking enough water: Water can help to flush out toxins and keep the vaginal area clean, which can help to prevent odour.
• Vitamin C: Vitamin C is an antioxidant that helps to keep the body healthy and can help prevent infections. Eat foods rich in Vitamin C like oranges, lemons, and kiwi.

What Foods Should be Avoided to Prevent Vaginal Odour?

Certain foods can lead to an increase in vaginal odour during menopause. It's essential to be mindful of what you eat, especially if you are experiencing vaginal odour. 

Foods to limit or avoid include:

• Spicy foods: Foods that are high in spices can lead to an increase in sweat and can cause a strong vaginal odour.
• Garlic and onions: These foods can also lead to a strong vaginal odour when consumed in large quantities.
• Caffeine and alcohol: These beverages can lead to dehydration, contributing to vaginal odour.
• Processed foods: Processed foods are often high in sugar and artificial ingredients, which can contribute to an imbalance in the body, leading to vaginal odour.
• Fried foods: Fried foods can be high in trans fat and contribute to inflammation and weight gain, leading to vaginal odour.

How Can Ayurveda Tackle Vaginal Odour?

Ayurveda is a traditional natural system of medicine from India that has been used for thousands of years to promote overall health and well-being.

Here are a few natural Ayurvedic natural remedies for vaginal odour:

• Triphala: Triphala is a blend of three fruits - Haritaki, Bibhitaki and Amla- commonly used in Ayurveda to promote digestive health and cleanse the body. It is also believed to help balance the pH levels in the vagina when used in a sitz bath. 
• Neem: Neem is a tree native to India and is used in Ayurveda for its antimicrobial properties. Use Neem decoctions in a sitz bath to help maintain a healthy vaginal pH balance.
• Turmeric: Turmeric is a spice commonly used in Ayurveda and is believed to have anti-inflammatory properties. It can be used topically or consumed to help prevent vaginal infections, which can cause odour.
• Guggulu: Guggulu, a resin derived from a tree is used in Ayurveda to help balance hormones and reduce inflammation. It can help reduce the symptoms of menopause, which can cause vaginal odour.
• Shankhapushpi: Shankhapushpi is a herb which is beneficial for women's health. It is used to balance hormones and reduce stress.

Here are a few Ayurvedic treatments that can be used to help manage vaginal odour during menopause

• Herbal douches: Douching with a mixture of herbs such as neem, turmeric, and Triphala helps balance the pH levels in the vagina and reduces odour-causing bacteria.
• Steam therapy: A treatment called "yoni steaming", which involves sitting over a pot of steaming water infused with herbs such as neem and turmeric, helps reduce inflammation and promote healing.
• Herbal supplements: Taking herbal supplements such as ashwagandha and shatavari helps balance hormones and reduce stress.
• Diet and lifestyle changes: Ayurvedic practitioners may recommend changing your diet and lifestyle to help promote overall health and well-being. This may include eating a diet that is balanced and easy to digest, practising yoga and meditation, and getting enough rest and exercise.
• Panchakarma: Panchakarma is a form of Ayurvedic detox that can help to cleanse the body and balance the doshas. It can include herbal enemas, oil massage and sweating therapy.

Do consult an Ayurvedic Practitioner, as they can help determine the cause and recommend appropriate treatment options.

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Follow Your Nose: Knowing When to Seek Medical Help for Menopause Vaginal Odour

It's essential to seek medical help if you are experiencing vaginal odour along with other symptoms such as:

• Vaginal itching or burning
• Abnormal vaginal discharge
• Pain or discomfort during sex
• Pain or discomfort while urinating
• Irregular menstrual periods
• Pain in the lower abdomen

These symptoms may indicate a vaginal infection or other underlying medical condition that requires treatment.

Also, it's essential to see a healthcare provider if you have recently engaged in sexual activity, have multiple sexual partners, or have a history of sexually transmitted infections (STIs), as these are risk factors for vaginal infections.

See a healthcare provider if you have recently felt a change in your vaginal odour and are unsure why. Your healthcare provider can help determine the odour's cause and recommend appropriate treatment options.

To Conclude

In conclusion, while vaginal odour can be a part of menopause, there are natural and holistic ways to manage and overcome it. By identifying the root cause and addressing it with natural remedies, Ayurveda, diet, and lifestyle changes, you can easily maintain a healthy and balanced vaginal environment and overcome this period.