A strong or “fishy” odor from the genital area—especially in women—is usually a sign of an imbalance or infection, not normal hygiene.
Here’s what you should know about this
A “fishy” smell is most often associated with:
1. Bacterial Vaginosis (BV)
Most common cause of a fishy vaginal odor.
Happens when there’s an overgrowth of certain bacteria in the vagina.
Symptoms: Thin gray/white discharge, strong odor (especially after s3x), itching or burning.
Needs antibiotics, not just home remedies.
2. Trichomoniasis
A sexually transmitted infection (STI) caused by a parasite.
Can cause a fishy smell, green/yellow discharge, itching, and discomfort.
Treated with prescription medication.
3. Poor hygiene or trapped sweat
Sweat, tight clothing, or infrequent washing can trap bacteria and moisture.
While not always a “fishy” smell, it can cause an unpleasant odor.
4. Menstruation or leftover tampons
A forgotten tampon can cause a very strong, rotten smell, which may be mistaken for fishy.
