Is it possible to smell your period

Simple as that. Greves says. The amount of bacteria in the vagina fluctuates, which can change the smell. A slight change is usually nothing to worry about, Dr. Greves says, but if all of a sudden your period smells seriously rotten, you may want to talk to your doctor. A particularly strong, fishy smell could be a sign of bacterial vaginosis, an infection caused by an overgrowth of bacteria in the vagina. Other symptoms include burning especially during urination , itchiness, and abnormal vaginal discharge.

Any of these symptoms should be a cue to get a professional opinion. Feel around the opening of your vagina for a string or feel inside for the tampon itself. That odor can be more or less intense, depending how long it sits in your uterus before leaving, but Dr. As far as what's normal and what isn't, Dr. A change in vaginal odor can signal a problem. Odor can also come from the bacteria that naturally accumulates during your period. Shirazian says, which can lead to "secondary vaginal infections like bacterial vaginosis, which has a strong, fishy odor.

While BV itself isn't an STI , it is known to increase your risk for catching an STI, so if you are experiencing odor, itching, or painful urination, you should definitely see your doctor for treatment. And, if you notice an out-of-the-ordinary odor when you aren't menstruating, you might want to talk to your doctor. You may have BV, vaginitis , or some other kind of infection that requires treatment. Keeping things dry down there can help. While there is nothing wrong with the natural blood smell and the likelihood that it is noticeable to anyone but you is very small , Dr.

Shirazian says keeping the surrounding area as dry as possible can help reduce it if it's bothering you. Try to "wear cotton underwear and breathable clothing, not a lot of spandex or tight clothing" during your period to reduce sweating , she says. Although it's not the main cause of period blood odor, sweat can definitely contribute to it.

Shirazian explains. This means that if your flow is naturally heavier, you're probably going to experience more odor than someone with a lighter flow. If you notice that you're bleeding more than usual, or you're worried that you're bleeding excessively, Dr.

This myth has been persisting for a while, and definitely offputting for the outdoors-inclined. At least as far as National Park Service in Yellowstone is concerned, there is no statistical evidence showing that bears are attracted to menstrual blood. The menstrual care aisle at the store can be overwhelming for many reasons. There are just so many different products, all claiming to be the key to an easier period. And, of course, there is the section of products with delicate floral scents, promising to hide all period smells.

While some people may be able to use these products with no problem, a lot of them can irritate the sensitive skin of your vulva and vagina.

For more tips on avoiding period smells or practicing food period hygiene, make sure to check out our guide! But, if you do notice a very strong or different scent, talk to your doctor about this change as it could be a sign of something serious.

Binti is a UK-based charity that makes it its mission to bring menstrual education around the world.