Foul Smelling Vaginal Odors - Is it a Sign For a STD?

Vaginal odor is quite harassing and an embarrassing predicament for women. It can be chronic or acute. Not that a smelly vagina always signals an STD (Sexually transmitted diseases), it can be the result of poor hygiene as well. By washing with a mild soap twice a day, vaginal odor is something which one can get rid of. The thriving of odor causing bacteria can be the cause of bad smell in the vagina, and killing of these benign bacteria can help in getting rid of the odor. But in spite of all of these, if the odor is something which persists, then it is definitely a matter of concern.

Infection of vagina, if left untreated for a long period of time, can cause infection to the uterus and ovaries of a woman. We find many ladies complaining of vaginal odors within 24 hours after coming in sexual contact with a person. This odor can result in women who engage with multiple sexual partners. A yeast infection can also result in odor in vagina, which thankfully can be treated.

But the most alarming situation arises when vaginal odor is a result of vaginal inflammation which is one of the initial symptoms of STD (sexually transmitted diseases). STD, like the gonorrhea, pelvic inflammatory disease. Genital herpes, vaginitis and Chlamydia can result in consistent vaginal odor. Along with vaginal odor if discharge from the vagina is found as a result of the viral infection, the warning symptoms are better taken seriously. Irritation in the region of vagina from where the vaginal odor seems to be originating is quite common in STD.

A diagnosis of vaginitis if missed and delayed can cause this vaginal odor. If by avoiding sugar and adding garlic to the diet, this problem is being overcome then it has been fortunate. But otherwise never hesitate to consult a doctor about vaginal odor. If kept hidden for a long time it can result in uterine, cervical or vaginal cancer. A misdiagnosis on the basis of wrong information would accelerate the STD in the victim.

A contraceptive device or a condom or any other foreign body being lodged for a long time in the vagina can also give rise to the foul stinking smell from it. There are some women who are more sensitive to smell and in spite of nothing being so seriously wrong they can detect a smell and feel a little worried.

In any case, it is always advisable to consult your doctor, rather gynecologist to avoid complication before it gets too late. Vagina is a very sensitive part of the female human genitalia, along with personal hygiene one should also be aware of the risks associated with vaginal infection.