It took 3 tries and 30 mins to get it out. and that smell made me gag! Never disregard the medical advice of your physician or health professional, or delay in seeking such advice, because of something you read on this Site. When I saw so many who had found a forgotten tampon I thought I'd better at least check to be safe, though I was certain that was not the case. However, it should not persist much longer after the period ends. A healthy lifestyle, a well-balanced diet and an overall hygiene-conscious attitude towards self-goes a long way in eliminating the chances of you having a foul smelling period. Genital tract infections. Read more about whether feminine hygiene products are safe or even necessary here. I just found this discussion by googling smelly periods. So I noticed a horrific vaginal odor today. Many studies have also shown that some ladies including both adults and teenagers, go through this wrecking social experience of avoiding their peers or their peers avoiding them due to the fishy odour around them. If you want to skip a shower in extremely harsh weather conditions that might be acceptable but skipping shower during your heavier flow days is not at all healthy. Sweating more than usual is a common symptom of menstruation. Thank you so much!! (https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23101487/), (https://www.marchofdimes.org/pregnancy/your-body-after-baby-the-first-6-weeks.aspx), (https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/10772198/). This infection, in turn, would cause the foul smelling period. This intense odor is often associated with not changing your pad or tampon, or dumping your cup, frequently enough. period blood isn't the same as normal blood though, it's blood and tissue. it's got the iron content which would explain the tangyness but obviously it's going to taste different as it's more 'meaty' and the addition of normal fluids is going to alter the taste as well. Generally, period blood smells are not noticeable to other people. WebIf you have it, you don't want to ignore it, and one of the main symptoms is a foul smell around the period. One common indicator of all vaginal infections is abnormal discharge. Just now at 2am I found the culprit. Same thing going with me - I had a very foul, putrid smell towards the end of my menstrual cycle. While some odors are completely normal when you have your period, others may be a sign that you need to see your doctor. Very embarrassing indeed. Thank you so much guys!! Here, learn about the treatment, prevention, and more. You should also visit a doctor periodically to ensure it is free from infections and so on. Stock up on sanitary pads and dont use tampons during this time. After reading everyone saying this is what they found, I decided to check. OMG! Some smells, such as a fishy or rotten smell, are unusual, and a person experiencing them should see a doctor for further investigation. Your doctor can prescribe antibiotics to clear up the bacterial infection. Ditto to all your comments. Helpful - 0 Comment Emem47 Odor* sorry Helpful - 0 Omg- this post could have saved my life!! I thought I was losing my mind lol I said how could I forget about a tampon. The relief and shock was immense! If you buy through links on this page, we may earn a small commission Heres our process. Finally googled and saw this. Let's say, though, that your BV comes back every month, and you're tired of it. They may even have a slight metallic smell from iron and bacteria. Wow. Sobel JD, et al. Sweat, changes in vaginal bacteria, and perimenopause may change the odor of your menstrual blood. The point being, your vagina doesn't need to smell or taste fruity or really, like anything else besides a vagina. 2. If you have a foul smelling period, you should instantly cut down on sugary foods. Menstrual Blood Smell Death. I'm so glad I found this before it did become something more serious! A person might notice a bad or rotten smell during their period, which could be a sign of a problem. WebFoul menstrual blood odor geezlike I have never noticed much of an odor with my period, up until last month and now today. A sweet smell in the period blood is likely due to the acidic environment and the presence of bacteria in the vagina. Do not use any sprays or scents down there to chase away the foul smell as it would only aggravate it. Why does period or menstrual blood smell bad? It was lodged in the crevice by my cervix. That includes when you're on your period. Bacterial vaginosis CDC fact sheet. I had weird spotting all in between these two periods of dried blood and I was worried and wondering what was wrong with me but now I know why! I did it in the bathtub so I could bear down. Ferri FF. No wonder my tampons kept going in weird. Gray period blood. Being a woman is a pain in the butt sometimes, right? Menstrual What else could it be?? OMG! You may see more lochia: Healing after childbirth takes several weeks. Lochia has three stages. We do not endorse non-Cleveland Clinic products or services. Helpful - 0 Comment Letty2017 stop eating eggs and avocado while you menstruate. Mayo Clinic does not endorse companies or products. Any odors you might notice during your period can also fluctuate. If you are a Mayo Clinic patient, this could WebFoul-smelling discharge, which causes the period blood smell. Thank you so much to all of you for being brave enough to post this and respond. Here are the seven most common reasons why your period smells stronger than usual and what to do next. This is typically due to the presence of iron in the blood and is not usually a cause for concern. The color, consistency, and duration vary, but some factors impact how much lochia you see. If an infection is a cause, then it will require prompt treatment by a doctor. Some vaginal bacteria can naturally have a sweet smell, according to Women's Medical Associates of Nashville. Accessed Feb. 10, 2022. I literally just had an old tampon pop out of me! WebLochia and menstrual blood are similar in that the bleeding subsides before going away. What Causes Yellow Discharge Before Your Period? Thinner and more watery than lochia rubra. The vaginal discharge is usually yellow, green, or brown but may look black. However, you should be concerned if your period blood smells fishy. How long will this smell persist? This smell is often related to an infection, such as bacterial vaginosis or trichomoniasis. Take it easy and get as much rest as possible during this time. The biggest difference between the two types of discharge is that lochia lasts much longer. All rights reserved. I did go to the doctor who prescribed antibiotics for a UTI. People with PID experience symptoms such as lower abdominal pain, pain during sex, fever, irregular menstrual period, and vaginal discharge with a foul smell. How to treat it: If sweat is to blame, then washing your vulva gently with warm water and mild soap should get rid of the smell. There could be something else going on. Lochia (Postpartum Bleeding): How Long, Stages, Smell & Color WebBleeding disorders: You may experience heavy menstrual bleeding if you develop a bleeding or blood clotting disorder. People may wish to see a doctor if. Mild soap and water do just fine, because they can cleanse the area without changing vaginal pH. The use of menstrual cups is also recommended be a few as they last longer than sanitary pads and tampons. And that is definitely something you never want to happen again. cause how am I not sick when it actually smelled like something died inside of me!? I'm not even sure how long it was in there. The first step is always figuring out the underlying source and treating that," Dr. Shirazian says. Septic shock. And of course the same horrific odor. I am quite sure i have one old tampon ( i use it sometimes when i dont have my cup with me) , and most likely its at least month old :////. How Bad Does It Hurt This can't be normal!? Millions of women around the world are found to be complaining of foul smelling period. I pray the smell will go away. Bottom line. Some women also get brown discharge as they ovulate, which is an ovulation bleeding. So, sometimes itll have a vaguely metallic odor, especially when mixed with sweat or Sweating also can cause a This puts you more at risk for infections like bacterial vaginosis (BV). information is beneficial, we may combine your email and website usage information with Contact your healthcare provider if you experience the following symptoms in the weeks after giving birth: Its best to avoid sexual intercourse for at least six weeks after giving birth. WebBrown or red: Brown or red discharge is usually related to irregular menstruation or pregnancy (implantation bleeding). They might also notice itching, burning, or soreness in the genital area. WebHealthy periods can have a slight smell of blood. That saved me! And yes! However, some people have traces of lochia for up to eight weeks. That's happened for like the past year-and-a-half - 2 years. You should speak to The rankest skankest stankest tampon. Also made a doctors apt. Lochia doesnt typically cause complications. Last medically reviewed on July 26, 2019, For many, it can be hard to distinguish between spotting and periods. Learn more about some of the common odors associated with periods, and which symptoms warrant a doctors visit. I could not stand the smell of myself and could not figure out WTH was wrong with me. It only implies that should you should be careful, for instance, you should refrain from oral sex with people who have thrust in their mouth. information highlighted below and resubmit the form. Irregular Periods (Abnormal Menstruation): Causes & Treatment Home Foul smelling period: 6 Causes and 6 Treatments. Its the tampon that was full of blood at one point ringing itself out as you urinate and take baths inside of you. Also, some people are known to leave tampons inside them. But your blood should typically have a similar odor from month to month, whether it smells more metallic, sweet, or something else. GO FIND THE TAMPON!!!! Thank you to everyone that has contributed to this conversation. Extremely embarrassing/relieving. I cannot believe that all these posts lead me to do the same thing. A menstrual period consists of the shedding of an unfertilized egg, blood, and uterine lining tissues. I instantly felt better getting that nastiness out of me. The strong odor is most likely caused by blood and tissues exiting the vagina, along with bacteria. Here are some tips on how to treat postpartum bleeding: Give your body time to heal. The blood has gone from Medical News Today has strict sourcing guidelines and draws only from peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions, and medical journals and associations. Smell Dark red period blood. Douching. This is not unusual, but a rotten or fishy odor may be a sign of a health condition that needs medical attention. (2017). When you have a hormone imbalance, your body isnt getting the signals it needs to do this on schedule. However after some time i got fustrated, cause its not my cup that gets that nasty smell,but its inside me!! Cervical Cancer This content does not have an English version. You can learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate and current by reading our. In other words, this is a completely normal smell. I'm in the exact situation as the question we're all answering almost 34 no health insurance and everything's been normal until I don't know a couple of few periods ago could it have something to do with menopause? Your healthcare provider will give you the OK for intercourse after your postpartum check-up. It can vary between people, but lochia typically lasts about six weeks. Bloody Vaginal Discharge Vaginal Odor Lochia is heavy at first but gradually subsides to a lighter flow until it goes away. I had to comment just to thank everyone who commented before me. No idea how I didn't notice!? The contents used in these could play havoc with the natural pH balance of your vagina that can bring out a foul smelling period and put you at a higher risk of vaginal infections. http://womenshealth.gov/publications/our-publications/fact-sheet/douching.html. Other options include eating yogurt with active cultures or popping a probiotic. Make your tax-deductible gift and be a part of the cutting-edge research and care that's changing medicine. Some styles can hold several tampon's worth of blood, but yours may need to be changed sooner. Unreal! Wouldn't I have gotten TSS or some sort of fever or infection?? Similarly, vaginal washes are risky, too. From skin changes to weight loss to unusual bleeding, here are 15 cancer warning signs that women tend to ignore. Okay, happened to me once. Straight down the quacks tomorrow to get myself on some antibiotics. 1998-2023 Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research (MFMER). Contact your healthcare provider if your discharge is extremely foul or fishy, as it could indicate an infection. We disclaim all responsibility for the professional qualifications and licensing of, and services provided by, any physician or other health providers posting on or otherwise referred to on this Site and/or any Third Party Site. Lochia is vaginal discharge after childbirth. Rarely, it signifies a more serious problem. Advertising revenue supports our not-for-profit mission. I CANT BELIEVE IT!!! 1. Menstruation involves the shedding of blood and tissue from the uterine lining through the vagina. In: Comprehensive Gynecology. I'm almost 50 so I though it may have to do with menopause but it did coincide with the end of my period even though this period seemed to be kind of long. I have known people who wouldnt wash for days owing to their laziness, a hectic work routine or the fact that they showered just a day ago. Foul-smelling odor (worse smelling than your usual period). How has it not been felt during sex? If you've left your tampon, pad, or menstrual cup in for too long, you might notice an overpowering smell of blood. Last medically reviewed on June 13, 2018. Omg. We avoid using tertiary references. Went in bathroom to check and OMG I am disgusted, but YES an old tampon lodged way up there. I about died too. WebFoul smelling period is an uncomfortable and unpleasing experience to have. The blood is from the lining of the uterus, and it has an odor all its own it generally smells metallic. And should be the interjor of my vagina clear and smooth or not? If the mix of bacteria in your vagina (aka your vaginal microbiome) changes, your period blood may take on a different scent. You may see red, brown, and even black blood during your period. Thanks for posting your comments, they saved me from a visit to the obgyn. Came home tonight and keptnoticing. The biggest difference between the two types of discharge is that lochia lasts much The combined salt, fat, and bacteria from sweating, when mixed with period blood, can create a potent, odorous mix. (forgive me for being so forward with this) but I was on the toilet going number two and for some reason I had to push a little harder and next thing I know a tampon was also coming out of my vagina at the same time the poop was coming out! When it came back the blood was much darker than usual and smelled horrific. Mayo Clinic College of Medicine and Science, Mayo Clinic Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Mayo Clinic School of Graduate Medical Education, Mayo Clinic School of Continuous Professional Development, Mayo Clinic on Incontinence - Mayo Clinic Press, NEW Mayo Clinic on High Blood Pressure - Mayo Clinic Press, Mayo Clinic on Hearing and Balance - Mayo Clinic Press, FREE Mayo Clinic Diet Assessment - Mayo Clinic Press, Mayo Clinic Health Letter - FREE book - Mayo Clinic Press, Financial Assistance Documents Minnesota. 9500 Euclid Avenue, Cleveland, Ohio 44195 |, Important Updates + Notice of Vendor Data Event. When the normal bacterial balance of the vagina is thrown off, you may develop bacterial vaginosis, or BV. Nothing helped, i mean nothing. Common culprits that can disrupt your vaginal microbiome include: How to treat it: Practicing good vaginal and vulvar hygiene will help keep your vaginal microbiome healthy and help reduce intense smells during your period. Your doctor may also suggest taking over-the-counter probiotics after the infection clears to help keep your microbiome balanced and lower your chances of developing BV again. Can diet help improve depression symptoms? I found this topic because i was looking for a similar info. The only condition when it is normal to have, Read More Fluid in uterus: 6 Causes, Symptoms and 14 RemediesContinue, Fishy odor no discharge is a puzzle for many women. Last reviewed by a Cleveland Clinic medical professional on 03/11/2022. Douching may also increase your risk for this type of infection. Just feel so sorry for my poor hubby who had been put off halfway through making love at the stenchcheck yourself ladies at the 1st sign of bad odour. A person might notice a fishy smell during their period and also outside of menstruation. Lochia is different for everyone. Bacterial vaginosis stems from an imbalance in the naturally occurring bacteria in the vagina. I mean this thing looked ancient when I pulled it out. My Dog Smells Like Period Blood If you cant feel them, see your doctor for a vaginal exam to confirm. I thought this might be a problem of a cup, because it was getting old ( been having 3 yrs) though i never had this problem. Avoid scented tampons and other products, as these can cause irritation and allergic reactions. See additional information. Here's What Your Vaginal Odor Is Trying to Tell You, 3 Reasons You Might Have Vaginal Discharge After Working Out, What Your Vaginal Discharge Means, According to an Ob-Gyn, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: Bacterial Vaginosis CDC Fact Sheet, Women's Medical Associates of Nashville: "The Most Common Vaginal Odors (And Why They Happen)". The resulting rotten smell from bacteria mixed with menstrual flow shouldnt be strong enough for others to detect. Cleveland Clinic is a non-profit academic medical center. If you prefer not to take hormones, a healthcare professional can offer more information about other treatment options, including vaginal lubrication. A person might notice that their period blood smells metallic due to the presence of blood and iron. Anyway, I was ready to forget about it all since it was gone, but still felt a bit concerned. I&. With so many products claiming, Read More 6 Ingredients to Look for in the Top Fat Burning Pills for WomenContinue. This is not uncommon. Down to the bathroom. other information we have about you. Foul-smelling vaginal discharge. I'm 30 and never had an issues before, and I worried over this smell on my period recently. If you already notice a strong odor, try some of the following tips for good vaginal hygiene (and if that doesn't help, consult a doctor): During menses, or your period, you lose "good" bacteria called lactobacilli, Markiden says. Trichomoniasis is a protozoal infection that a person can pass to another person through sex. Take care of your vaginas health just like you do for any other part of your body. (2009). What do doctors have to say about the foul smelling period? Finally, after about 10 to 14 days, lochia changes to a creamy, yellowish-white color. Lochia is made up of: Lochia will smell like menstrual blood. These contribute to the foul period smells. Metallic or Like Iron. Every person is different, but generally, lochia follows a similar progression in color and volume. I would have never guessed I had a tampon stuck up inside me. I thought it was an infection but after reading the comments I went to the bathroom and sure enough, I found it. How to treat it: If you notice these symptoms, make an appointment with your OB-GYN for a Pap smear. The resulting rotten odor from bacteria mixed with the menstrual flow should not be strong enough to detect others. This can introduce bacteria to your uterus and cause infection. In: Ferri's Clinical Advisor 2022. For example, if you have anemia or have recently been out in the sun for an extended period of time, chances are that you will notice your sense of smell is altered or heightened when Contact your healthcare provider if you notice signs of infection like foul-smelling discharge or if your vaginal bleeding gets worse. I have never noticed much of an odor with my period, up until last month and now today. All rights reserved. So if you have a terrible smell and drops of dark smelly blood. You're dealing with blood, after all. Large, golf-ball-sized clots or excessive clotting. Thanks so much, ladies. My period was dark red, yucky, reeked- the whole 9 but the suggestion to squat down is a must!!! Bad So, lets learn what causesScab on Nipples and what are the remedies for it. I got in the shower and inserted a finger. I just thought I must not have remembered taking it out and my periods are light so I can easily go through the night without one. I just searched, no tampon. IVe been using tampons all my life and this has never happened. I had a very unusual period this month that started and then stopped for over a week. Add me to the list. Horrible smells like I've never smelled before. Symptoms and causes. The list of possible vaginal infections is endless, and you may get scared reading about them. While reading about a certain medical condition, we would realise that we do have one or more symptoms of that condition. Sometimes, unusual smells during a persons period are related to hygiene practices. Wear underwear and pants you dont mind ruining. Avoid douching and scratching anywhere down there. A person should aim to bathe daily to improve unwanted odors. It consists of blood, mucus, uterine tissue and other materials from your uterus. One of the biggest reasons why period blood smells is because it has to exit through the vagina, which is full of bacteria. So i threw it away and for my next period i got a new cup. A strong odor from down there may be cause for worry, as it could be a sign of an infection. Why Does My Period Smell: Death, Fishy, Rotten, and A person should be aware of new or unusual smells during their period or changes in vaginal discharge outside of their period. Accessed Feb. 10, 2022. As exciting as it might sound to bounce back and start with your usual activities, this can prevent you from healing. We avoid using tertiary references. A disruption in this environment can cause infections and other problems. It implies to a malodour of the period blood which is different from the natural smell of the blood. Thank you. Uterine cancer or ovarian cancer: Certain cancers can affect a persons menstrual period. Anyone who experiences unusual changes in vaginal discharge, strange odors, or vaginal bleeding during pregnancy should speak to a doctor.