The vagina is a complex and dynamic environment, naturally maintaining a mild scent thanks to the presence of beneficial bacteria, such as lactobacilli. These bacteria help sustain the vagina’s slightly acidic pH, creating a protective balance that supports overall health. When combined with vaginal discharge, sweat, and even traces of urine, it’s no surprise that the vagina and vulva are not entirely odorless.

A healthy vagina might carry a scent described as tangy, musky, or earthy—an aroma as unique as the individual herself. Just as no two women look alike, no two natural scents are the same. Variations in smell are often influenced by factors such as hygiene practices, sexual activity, the menstrual cycle, and the state of the vaginal microbiome.

While a mild, musky scent is usually normal, stronger or unpleasant odors, particularly those with a fishy quality, may signal an imbalance or underlying issue. These changes are often accompanied by additional symptoms like itching, burning, unusual discharge, or irritation.

The most common causes of abnormal vaginal odor

Bacterial Vaginosis (BV): An overgrowth of harmful bacteria that disrupts the natural balance of the microbiome.

Aerobic Vaginitis (AV): Inflammation caused by aerobic bacteria.

Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs): Conditions like trichomoniasis or chlamydia.

Understanding the root cause of vaginal odor is the first step toward effective care. Supporting the vaginal microbiome with informed choices can make all the difference in maintaining balance and health.

The Best Products for Vaginal Odor

When it comes to addressing vaginal odor, it’s not about masking your body’s natural scent—it’s about supporting the delicate balance of your vaginal microbiome. The right products don’t just help you feel fresh; they work with your body to keep things healthy and in sync.

Below, we’ve curated a selection of microbiome-friendly solutions designed to address odor while respecting and protecting your body’s natural equilibrium.

Vaginal Moisturizers

Vaginal moisturizers are more than a quick fix—they’re a purposeful approach to maintaining the optimal pH range of 3.8 to 4.5, which is essential for a healthy microbiome. Look for something that is infused with pH-balancing ingredients like lactic acid.

Lactic acid plays a critical role in supporting vaginal health because it is naturally produced by Lactobacillus bacteria, the beneficial microbes that dominate a healthy vaginal microbiome. This compound helps maintain the acidic environment needed to prevent the overgrowth of harmful bacteria and yeast. When applied as part of a gel, lactic acid restores balance, reduces abnormal odors, and creates conditions where your microbiome can thrive.

pH-Balanced Wipes

For those moments when water and soap aren’t an option, pH-balancing wipes provide an easy way to feel clean and refreshed.

What to Look for in a Great Wipe:

pH-Balancing Components: Ingredients like lactic acid and gluconic acid help maintain your body’s natural pH levels, supporting the microbiome and reducing abnormal odor.

Biodegradable Materials: Wipes made with biodegradable materials, like lyocell, are both eco-friendly and gentle on the skin.

No Harsh Additives: Avoid wipes with parabens, petrochemicals, or artificial fragrances, which can disrupt your microbiome and cause irritation.

Ingredients to Avoid: If you see these listed on the back of the package, it’s best to steer clear:

Artificial Fragrances: These can irritate sensitive skin and disrupt the natural microbiome.

Parabens and Petrochemicals: Harsh preservatives that can cause irritation and imbalance.

Synthetic Wipe Materials: Choose biodegradable options instead, as synthetic materials can be harsh on skin and harmful to the environment.

Moisturizing Wash

The vulva, the external part of female anatomy, plays a vital role in protecting the internal reproductive system. While the vagina supports its own microbiome—a delicate balance of bacteria that maintain pH and defend against infection—the vulva requires external care to keep the skin clean, comfortable, and irritation-free. However, harsh soaps or fragranced products can disrupt this sensitive area. A pH-balanced, moisturizing wash can help cleanse and refresh while working in sync with your body’s innate defenses.

What to Look For:

Minimal Additives: A golden rule for intimate care: avoid parabens, petrochemicals, artificial fragrances, or harsh foaming agents like sodium lauryl sulfate. These ingredients often do more harm than good, disrupting the very balance they claim to protect.

Botanical Ingredients: Aloe vera and calendula extracts are renowned for their soothing and hydrating properties, making them ideal for sensitive skin.

pH Alignment: Lactic acid ensures that the wash complements your body’s natural pH levels, supporting the microbiome and reducing abnormal odors.

How to use a pH-balanced vaginal wash:

Using a moisturizing wash as part of your daily routine offers both practical care and a moment of gentle indulgence. Start by dispensing a small amount into your hands or onto a soft washcloth. Gently apply it to the external areas of the vulva, focusing on cleansing without excessive pressure. Work up a light, creamy lather, allowing the wash to refresh your skin while preserving its natural moisture barrier. Finally, rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water to remove all traces of the product.

Vaginal Suppositories

Vaginal suppositories can be an effective way to address odor by replenishing lactobacilli—the beneficial bacteria that help maintain your vaginal microbiome’s balance. These suppositories introduce probiotics directly into the vagina, supporting the growth of lactobacilli to keep odor-causing bacteria in check.

By promoting a healthy pH and fostering the right bacterial environment, they target the root cause of odor, helping you feel fresh and balanced naturally. Most suppositories are easy to use and designed for nighttime application,which aids in symptom relief while working to promote a more balanced vaginal microbiome while you rest.

For optimal results, follow the product instructions as directed. Vaginal suppositories provide support for managing symptoms and maintaining vaginal balance for gentle, targeted relief.

Tips for Supporting Your Vaginal Health

Abnormal vaginal odor is often your body’s way of signaling an imbalance. Common causes include bacterial vaginosis (BV), yeast infections, or sexually transmitted infections (STIs), which are typically resolved with prescribed treatments like antibiotics.

Aside from treatment, there are a few things you can do to prevent unhealthy vaginal odor and look after your vaginal health in general:

Avoid douching: Though often marketed as a quick fix, douching disrupts the natural pH balance of the vagina, increasing the risk of infections and irritation. Let your body’s natural processes do the work.

Keep an eye on the ingredients list: Many intimate washes, sprays, and wipes contain fragrances and harsh chemicals that can irritate sensitive tissue. Stick to products specifically formulated to support your microbiome.

Practice safe sex: Use barrier methods like condoms to protect against STIs and maintain your vaginal health. If you enjoy using sex toys, be sure to clean them thoroughly before and after each use to reduce the risk of introducing bacteria or infections.

Consider taking our vaginal microbiota panel or consulting your healthcare provider for deeper insight into managing odor symptoms and supporting overall vaginal microbiome health.