You may notice that menstrual blood has a characteristic smell. Usually, this odour is mild and barely noticeable, but sometimes it can become more intense or distinctive. While most smells are completely normal, it is worth paying attention to any sudden changes.
01 Different scents of menstrual blood
Why does menstrual blood have an odour? The way menstrual blood smells depends on several factors, such as the natural pH of the vagina, the presence of bacteria, and the amount of time the blood stays in contact with air. However, some changes in scent may be an indication for you to see a doctor, especially if accompanied by other symptoms such as itching, burning, or changes in the consistency of the discharge.
An intensely strong smell of menstrual blood smell, may be a sign of a bacterial infection, such as bacterial vaginosis. Similarly, a sweet smell of blood could indicate a fungal infection.
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Natural metallic smell of menstrual blood
Is it normal for menstrual blood to have a metallic smell? Yes, a metallic odour, resulting from the presence of iron in blood, is typical and should not cause concern. Similarly, a mild acidic smell is the result of the natural environment of the vagina, where the pH level in a healthy state range between 3.8 and 4.5.
Sweet smell of menstrual blood
A sweet menstrual blood smell, although at first appearing harmless, often indicates changes in the vaginal environment that may require attention. Such an odour is most often the result of bacteria and a change in vaginal pH. In a healthy state, the vaginal pH should be between 3.8 and 4.5, which creates an acidic environment conducive to protection against infection. However, disruption of the natural pH balance, for example, by bacterial infections, can result in a characteristic sweetish odour.
A ’fishy’ menstrual odour
A ‘fishy’ menstrual blood smell is a signal that should definitely prompt you to consult your doctor. More often than not, it indicates an infection such as bacterial vaginosis, which requires prompt diagnosis and treatment.
Bacterial vaginosis is the result of an imbalance of the bacterial flora in the vagina, leading to an overgrowth of bacteria and a characteristic odour. The odour becomes more intense during menstruation because the blood changes the vaginal pH to a more alkaline one, favouring the proliferation of bacteria.
Period smells like flesh
Why does menstruation smell like flesh? This is a natural phenomenon resulting from the action of the apocrine sweat glands located in the genital area. These glands secrete a specific type of sweat that, when combined with the bacteria present on the skin, creates a body odour. During menstruation, especially in periods of increased stress, the activity of the apocrine glands may be more noticeable, which affects the smell of menstrual blood.
02 Unpleasant blood smell during menstruation and other symptoms
If the unpleasant smell of menstrual blood occurs along with additional symptoms such as pain, burning or discomfort, it is worth consulting your doctor immediately. The colour of menstrual blood is also important - it can vary over the course of a cycle and provide important information about a woman's health. Certain shades, such as grey or grey-brown, can indicate potential health problems.
While sometimes some problems may be due to insufficient intimate hygiene, such symptoms often indicate infections, inflammation or other intimate problems that require diagnosis and treatment. Regularly observing your menstrual cycle and reacting quickly to worrying symptoms is key to staying healthy and detecting possible problems early.
03 Is it possible to eliminate the smell of menstruation?
It is worth noting that some women may experience a distinctive smell during menstruation due to individual body characteristics. Regular, but not excessive, washing of the intimate area, especially in the morning, evening and after each visit to the toilet, as well as frequent changes of period pads, are essential measures to help reduce odour and ensure comfort during menstruation. Period pads should generally be changed every 4-6 hours, but if you have a heavier flow, it’s important to change them more frequently to maintain hygiene and prevent leaks.
However, excessive use of products designed for the genital area such as deodorants or sprays should be avoided, as they can irritate and disrupt the natural bacterial balance of the vagina. The natural vaginal environment, based on Lactobacillus strains, protects against microbial proliferation and the formation of unpleasant odours. Excessive chemicals can lead to infections, such as bacterial vaginitis or yeast infections, which further compound the problem.
It is also important not to forget to use gentle lotions, avoid prolonged hot baths and always wash the vaginal area in the correct direction - from front to back. If, despite good hygiene, the period blood odour persists or other worrying symptoms such as pain or burning occur, it is necessary to consult a doctor.