Sometimes you might notice that your vagina smells differently than it usually does. Having a smell like body odor coming from down there can be especially disconcerting. You likely are wondering what causes that smell and if you can change anything about it. While you don’t have to be embarrassed about it, wanting answers is normal for anyone.
The good news here is that we have answers for you. You don’t have to spend a lot of time digging around because we want you to be informed. That’s why we take the time to answer questions like that. So why does your vagina smell like body odor? Let’s talk about it.
What Causes My Vagina To Smell Like Body Odor?
To be honest there are quite a few reasons your vagina might smell like body odor. There isn’t just one answer here. The most common reasons are usually related to getting sweaty down there. Just like any other part of your body, your vaginal area can get sweaty and start to smell.
This is especially true after you’ve done things like going to the gym or even just going for a brisk walk. Anything that causes the rest of your body to get sweaty can also mean you sweat down there. Sweat just doesn’t smell good no matter where it happens.
So if you’re dealing with sweat then you can expect your vagina to sweat and smell differently too. Your vagina may also smell like body odor after sex for the same reasons. Getting down and sweaty while having sex is still getting sweaty in general. It’s going to lead to the same issues.
Can I Do Anything To Get Rid Of The Body Odor Smell?
You might not be able to prevent it but you can still clean yourself up after it happens. You can do things like using soap and water to wash yourself up whenever possible. If that’s not possible you can use feminine wipes to freshen up down there.
Usually these wipes are individually wrapped and easy to carry around. Toss a few in your purse or gym bag and use them as needed. Remember to check the ingredients first. You’ll want to make sure to avoid harsh chemicals and fragrances.
Related: 5 Feminine Products That Won’t Change Your Vaginal pH
Is This A Normal Smell Or Should I Be Concerned?
It’s 100 percent normal to get sweaty and have body odor. That means this is a normal smell to have, even down there. Your Vee gets sweaty too. Remember that you don’t have to be embarrassed or worried about it. It just means your body is functioning like it normally should.
You may want to use wipes or wash yourself up when you notice this smell but that doesn’t mean anything is wrong. It just means everything is doing what it’s supposed to do and sometimes our bodies smell.
Final Thoughts
Cleaning up when you notice this smell is completely reasonable. Just don’t spend too much time worrying about what’s wrong. Nothing is wrong when your vagina smells like body odor. It just means you’re working hard or having a lot of fun. You’re doing awesome and you’re just fine!
Sarah Nelson is a nurse with 15 years of experience working with a variety of patients. She has a Masters of Science in Nursing and has spent a large portion of her career working exclusively with women in an OB/GYN setting.
Nursing is a passion for Sarah but she also enjoys writing and sharing her expertise online with people who need helpful information. Treating patients well and helping them learn more about their own bodies is a key essential to a healthy lifestyle that Sarah truly believes in.