Why does my vaginal discharge have a noticeable odor?

Reviewed by Yoshinori Abe, MD

Internal Medicine

A strong or unusual vaginal odor is most often caused by an imbalance in the vagina's natural bacteria, a common condition known as bacterial vaginosis (BV). Other potential causes include trichomoniasis, poor hygiene, or hormonal changes. While an occasional mild scent is normal, a persistent fishy, foul, or unusually strong odor typically signals that something is off and may need medical attention.

Because vaginal odor can point to several different underlying conditions—some easily treated and others requiring prompt care—identifying the likely cause is the critical first step. Take a free, instant, online symptom check to get personalized insights and clear guidance on your next steps.

Reviewed for medical accuracy: 07/14/2026

Important Next Steps

Discover causes of your vaginal odor Learn if discharge needs urgent care See if it could be an infection Find OTC relief for vaginal odor Find a doctor for vaginal symptoms Discover home remedies for vaginal discharge Understand what’s causing unusual vaginal odor

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Explanation

Your body naturally produces vaginal discharge to keep the area clean. When the healthy balance of bacteria in the vagina changes or becomes unbalanced, it can create a strong smell.

One common reason is bacterial vaginosis (BV). In BV, the healthy bacteria (like lactobacilli) are reduced, and other bacteria grow more than they should. These extra bacteria release substances called amines, which make the discharge smell fishy.

Sometimes a noticeable odor may also be influenced by recent sexual activity or changes in your body due to hormones. Although the smell on its own isn't usually dangerous, it may come with other signs such as itching, burning, or irritation with urination. If you're experiencing any of these symptoms, you can check your symptoms to better understand what might be causing them and whether you should seek medical care.

Keeping track of any changes in your discharge helps you and your provider make sure your vaginal health stays in good shape.

(References)

Eschenbach DA, Hillier S, Critchlow C, Stevens C, DeRouen T, Holmes KK. Diagnosis and clinical manifestations of bacterial vaginosis. Am J Obstet Gynecol. 1988 Apr;158(4):819-28. doi: 10.1016/0002-9378(88)90078-6. PMID: 3259075.
Bilardi JE, Walker S, Temple-Smith M, McNair R, Mooney-Somers J, Bellhouse C, Fairley CK, Chen MY, Bradshaw C. The burden of bacterial vaginosis: women's experience of the physical, emotional, sexual and social impact of living with recurrent bacterial vaginosis. PLoS One. 2013 Sep 11;8(9):e74378. doi: 10.1371/journal.pone.0074378. PMID: 24040236; PMCID: PMC3770676.
John N, Rahima S, Raji TK, Santhosh P, Kidangazhiathmana A, Sukumarakurup S. Clinicoetiological study on vaginal discharge among sexually active women attending a tertiary center in North Kerala, India. Indian J Sex Transm Dis AIDS. 2023 Jan-Jun;44(1):1-5. doi: 10.4103/ijstd.ijstd_65_21. Epub 2022 Dec 9. PMID: 37457531; PMCID: PMC10343118.

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