• Exercise

• Hot weather

• Tight clothing

• Stress

• Long workdays

Sweat mixes with:

• Natural skin bacteria

• Vaginal secretions

• Sebum

• Moisture

This combination may temporarily produce a stronger sour or musky smell.

This does not necessarily mean there is an infection.

How to reduce odor naturally

Simple habits may help:

• Change out of sweaty clothing promptly.

• Wear breathable cotton underwear.

• Avoid staying in wet swimsuits for long periods.

• Gently wash the vulva with warm water during your daily shower.

• Change underwear daily.

Strong soaps, scented washes, and perfumes are usually unnecessary and may actually disrupt the natural balance of the vaginal microbiome.

Reason #3: Hormonal Changes Throughout the Menstrual Cycle

Hormones affect nearly every aspect of vaginal health.

Changes in estrogen levels during:

• Ovulation

• Menstruation

• Pregnancy

• Breastfeeding

• Perimenopause

• Menopause

can influence:

• Vaginal discharge

• Moisture

• pH

• Natural odor

For example:

Before ovulation

Discharge often becomes:

• Clear

• Slippery

• Stretchy

The odor may become slightly stronger.

During menstruation

Blood has a different pH than the vagina.

As menstrual blood mixes with vaginal bacteria, odor may temporarily change.

During pregnancy