Unpleasant odor from genitals can make you feel self-conscious, impacting your self-esteem and sex life. It’s a common problem and can affect both women and men. The smell may be noticed in the pubic area, groin, or even from your underwear.

In this article, we’ll discuss the common causes of genital odor so that you can take necessary steps to get rid of it.

Poor Hygiene

Poor hygiene is the most common cause of genital odor. The skin and hair in the pubic area make it ideal for the growth of bacteria that can cause a bad smell.

Not washing your genitals regularly or wiping correctly after using the toilet can lead to unwanted odors. Sweat and bodily fluids add to the problem. So, if you are not washing the pubic area regularly, bacteria start to accumulate and cause an unpleasant smell.

Bacterial Vaginosis

Bacterial vaginosis is a common vaginal infection that can cause bothersome symptoms such as itching, burning, and a fishy-smelling vaginal odor. This condition occurs when there is an overgrowth of harmful bacteria in the vaginal area.

Bacterial vaginosis typically affects women of reproductive age and is not considered a sexually transmitted infection, even though it can be transmitted through sexual contact. It’s essential to get treated for this condition as it may increase the risk of getting other sexually transmitted infections.

Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs)

Sexually transmitted infections, such as gonorrhea, chlamydia, and trichomoniasis, can also cause an unpleasant genital odor. These infections can lead to discharge, itching, and a burning sensation during urination.

If you are sexually active and notice any unusual discharge or odor, it’s essential to get tested for STIs. Leaving these infections untreated can cause serious health problems in the future.

Menstruation

During menstruation, women experience a range of symptoms such as cramping, bloating, and an unpleasant smell. Menstrual blood, along with vaginal secretions and sweat, can cause a strong odor that can make you self-conscious.

Using scented products such as douches and perfumes will not help; instead, it can make the situation worse. Wearing breathable cotton underwear and washing your genitals regularly can minimize the odor associated with menstruation.

Strong Foods and Spices

Strong foods and spices such as garlic, onions, and red meat can cause an unpleasant genital odor. These foods contain sulfuric compounds that can cause an odor in your urine, sweat, and breath.

Additionally, caffeine and alcohol can cause dehydration, leading to less urine and more concentrated stronger-smelling urine. It’s important to drink enough water to flush out the toxins and keep the body hydrated.

Tight Clothing

Tight clothing can cause sweating and friction, leading to an unpleasant genital odor. The damp and warm environment created by tight clothing provides ideal conditions for the growth of bacteria, leading to an unpleasant smell.

Avoid wearing tight-fitting clothes, especially during the summer months. Opt for breathable, loose-fitting clothing for optimal ventilation to allow air to circulate and minimize sweating.

Medications

Some medications such as antibiotics, steroids, and diabetes medication can cause an unpleasant genital odor. Antibiotics can disrupt the natural balance of bacteria in the body, leading to an overgrowth of harmful bacteria.

Steroids can increase sweating, leading to a strong body odor. Diabetes medications can cause the body to release excessive sugar, leading to a sugary smell in the urine and genital area.

If you suspect that a medication is causing an unpleasant genital odor, speak with your healthcare provider about possible alternatives.

Pregnancy

Pregnancy can lead to hormonal changes that can cause an unpleasant genital odor. The increase in vaginal discharge during pregnancy can lead to a stronger smell.

Additionally, the sweat glands can become more active during pregnancy, leading to a strong body odor. Wearing loose-fitting clothing and washing the genital area regularly can help minimize the odor associated with pregnancy.

Uncontrolled Diabetes

Uncontrolled diabetes can cause an unpleasant odor, particularly in the genital area. High amounts of sugar in urine create an ideal environment for the growth of bacteria that thrive on sugar leading to an unpleasant smell.

Additionally, uncontrolled diabetes can lead to skin infections, such as thrush, that can cause a bad smell. Controlling diabetes through medication and lifestyle changes can minimize the unpleasant smell.

Conclusion

An unpleasant genital odor can make you feel self-conscious. The most common cause of genital odor is poor hygiene. However, other underlying conditions can cause an unpleasant smell.

Practice good hygiene habits such as washing regularly and wiping correctly after using the toilet. Avoid tight-fitting clothing and use breathable underwear. If you suspect an underlying condition, seek medical advice to determine the root cause of the problem.