When you’re pregnant, there are so many changes to your body. You may experience some changes that are unpleasant, but other ones can be quite unexpected. And one of them is vaginal odor.
What causes foul smell during pregnancy?
A foul-smelling vaginal discharge can be a symptom of something as harmless as hormone fluctuations, or it could be a sign of an infection, which should be treated promptly. Here are some of the most common causes of fishy odor during pregnancy and how to treat it:
Bacterial Vaginosis (BV)
A condition that can cause a strong smell in your vagina, bacterial vaginosis is caused by an imbalance of good and bad bacteria. It is most often asymptomatic but can lead to a fishy-smelling vaginal discharge and sex symptoms, such as itching or burning.
Yeast Infections
Pregnancy creates perfect conditions for yeast to multiply in your vagina, leading to a yeast infection. This can cause yellow or white, thick, chunky, or cottage cheese-like discharge. Other symptoms include itching, redness, and pain in the vaginal area, as well as burning when you urinate.
Sexually Transmitted Infections
Some STIs, such as gonorrhea and chlamydia, can also cause a strong odor in your vagina. You should seek medical attention if you notice an odor that lasts for several days, or if it’s accompanied by bleeding and pain.
Ammonia in your urine
The odor in your urine can be caused by a variety of things, including dietary and lifestyle changes, dehydration, and vitamin and supplement intake. It can also be a sign of a urinary tract infection, so it’s important to visit your doctor.