Foul-Smelling Vaginal Discharge
Free Symptom Checker
with Physician-supervised AI

Normal vaginal discharge should be clear or white without significant odor and not cause any irritation. Discharge that is foul smelling with an unpleasant odor should be investigated for infection.

Seek professional care if you experience any of the following symptoms

• Intermenstrual bleeding

• Increase in vaginal discharge

Generally, Foul-smelling vaginal discharge can be related to:

• Vaginitis

  Vaginitis refers to infection or inflammation of the vagina. This includes the external vagina such as the opening and vaginal lips (vulva), or the inside of the vagina. Patients typically note vaginal irritation, itching or dryness. They may also note vaginal discharge, which may have a foul odor (smell). This condition is caused by infection or changes in the balance of healthy vaginal bacteria. It can be caused by sexually transmitted diseases, but can also be caused without sexual activity. Normal aging can also be a cause with patients after menopause at an increased risk for vaginal dryness and irritation.

• Bacterial Vaginosis

  A healthy human vagina contains various types of bacteria. When the balance of bacteria is disrupted, some types can overgrow and cause symptoms. Common triggers include vaginal washing, sexual intercourse, or use of an Intrauterine Device.

• Trichomoniasis

  Infection of the vagina by a parasite called Trichomonas. The disease is sexually transmitted but often does not cause any symptoms in men.

• Pyometra
• Candidal Vulvovaginitis (Yeast Infection)
• Threatened Miscarriage
• Atrophic Vaginitis
• Cesarean Scar Syndrome

Sometimes, Foul-smelling vaginal discharge may be related to these serious diseases:

• Chorioamnionitis

  Chorioamnionitis is a pregnancy condition where the tissues and fluid around the fetus (unborn baby) become infected. This typically occurs in labor after the water bag (amniotic sac) is broken, but can occur before this as well. This is a serious condition that requires delivery of the fetus to protect both the mother and the baby.

• Premature Rupture of Membranes