Fact is, there is nothing inherent about menopause that causes unpleasant vaginal odors.
Some women have a tendency to immediately blame menopause when something goes awry with their body.
Though menopause is associated with dozens of symptoms, this doesn’t always mean that this “change” is a direct cause of those symptoms or issues.
Causes of Vaginal Odor: Not Menopause
“Vaginal odor can be due to infections such as bacterial vaginosis or other vaginal or uterine infections,” says Mylaine Riobe, MD, founder of Riobe Institute of Integrative Medicine. Dr. Riobe, board certified in OB/GYN and integrative medicine, is the author of “The Answer to Cancer.”
“Odor can also be caused by poor diet and increased toxicity,” says Dr. Riobe.
Now of course, a woman can become depressed upon learning that she’s going through menopause or having the knowledge that she’s just completed menopause, and is now officially “postmenopausal.”
And what can depression lead to? Less attention to personal hygiene—which includes bathing the feminine areas of the body.
Lack of cleanliness can certainly lead to an odor “down there.”
In addition to an unpleasant odor, which can sometimes have a fishy smell to it, bacterial vaginosis can also cause a new-onset discharge.
If you’re experiencing other symptoms with vaginal odor, such as new-onset painful intercourse or a burning sensation while urinating, see your gynecologist. Infections can be easily treated.
Dr. Riobe has helped thousands of patients overcome difficult illnesses by addressing root causes, not just masking symptoms. She has over 15 years’ experience using integrative techniques to treat diverse patients.
Lorra Garrick has been covering medical, fitness and cybersecurity topics for many years, having written thousands of articles for print magazines and websites, including as a ghostwriter. She’s also a former ACE-certified personal trainer.
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