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Health Line
6 days ago
- General
- Health Line
What Causes White Discharge During or After Sex?
Some types of discharge support sexual activity. Cervical mucus, for example, cleans and lubricates the vaginal canal. Penile fluid, which flows through the same tube as urine, neutralizes leftover acidity so sperm can safely pass. Sexual secretions are usually clear or milky white. Changes in vaginal or penile discharge may be a sign of an underlying infection if you're experiencing pain, discomfort, or other symptoms. Arousal Sexual excitement is a common cause of clear or milky white vaginal discharge. This fluid cleans, protects, and lubricates the vagina. As long as penetration isn't painful, this type of discharge is typical. Menstrual cycle It's natural for your vaginal discharge to change throughout your menstrual cycle. You might notice thick, white discharge right before your menstrual period starts or just after it ends. During ovulation, vaginal discharge is clear and stretchy, like egg white. If you have sex during these times, you may notice this type of white discharge. This is expected. Bacterial vaginosis (BV) BV occurs when the natural balance of vaginal bacteria is disrupted. This can happen for a variety of reasons, such as penetrative sex with a new partner, trying out a new condom brand, or using a fragranced soap to wash your vulva and vagina. In addition to white or gray discharge, BV can cause: fishy or foul vaginal odor burning during urination increased vaginal discharge persistent itching BV can be cured with oral or topical antibiotics. In some cases, BV can go away without treatment, but it's best to make an appointment with a healthcare professional. Untreated BV can increase your risk of sexually transmitted infections (STIs), pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), and complications during pregnancy. Yeast infection Yeast infections (candidiasis) are caused by an overgrowth of Candida, a naturally occurring fungus found in several areas of the body. This can happen for a number of reasons, including penetrative sex with a new partner, hormonal fluctuations, or when taking antibiotics. Yeast infections typically cause thick, white discharge that looks a bit like cottage cheese. It usually doesn't have an odor. Other symptoms include: itching painful penetration swelling around the vaginal opening burning during urination You may be able to treat a simple yeast infection with over-the-counter (OTC) antifungal medication. If your symptoms are severe or persist after OTC treatment, make an appointment with a healthcare professional. You may need prescription-strength antifungals to clear the infection. STI STIs are often asymptomatic. However, if symptoms do occur, unusual changes in discharge are at the top of the list. Chlamydia, gonorrhea, and trichomoniasis can all cause white discharge, spotting, and painful urination. Trichomoniasis can also cause itching and a strong fishy odor. Arousal Sexual excitement can cause clear or milky white penile discharge. This fluid, known as pre-come, is typical. Ejaculation, which often occurs alongside climax, is also white. It's made of semen and sperm. White discharge caused by sexual excitement is the only type of penile discharge that's healthy. Urinary tract infection (UTI) UTIs can affect different parts of the urinary tract. A penile UTI usually occurs when bacteria from the anus enters the urethra. This can lead to urethritis, or inflammation of the urethra. In addition to white discharge, penile UTIs can cause: bloody or cloudy urine burning or painful urination constant urge to urinate frequently passing small amounts of urine UTIs are treated with prescription antibiotics, although your doctor may prescribe other medications to help soothe your symptoms. Yeast infection Like vaginal yeast infections, penile yeast infections are due to Candida overgrowth. It often happens after having penetrative sex with someone who has a vaginal yeast infection. In addition to thick, white discharge, penile yeast infections can cause: burning or itching around the head of the penis burning or itching under any foreskin crusty, flaky, or peeling areas of skin difficulty pulling back any foreskin shiny sores or blisters Yeast infections are treated with OTC or prescription antifungal medications. STI Although asymptomatic STIs are most common, some people experience unusual discharge. Chlamydia, gonorrhea, and trichomoniasis can all cause white discharge and painful urination. Gonorrhea can also cause green or yellow discharge, while trichomoniasis can cause itching and other irritation. It's important to get tested if there's any chance that you've contracted an STI. If you test positive for one of these three, your healthcare professional will prescribe antibiotics. The bottom line White vaginal or penile discharge is common during and after sexual activity. It's usually a result of sexual arousal. As long as it isn't accompanied by other symptoms, it's typically not a cause for concern. Discharge that's thicker than expected, a color other than white, or foul-smelling could indicate an infection. If you're unsure of the potential cause or have tried OTC medications without success, make an appointment with a healthcare professional to discuss your symptoms.
Health Line
03-06-2025
- General
- Health Line
What Causes a ‘Fishy' Vaginal Odor and How Is It Treated?
A fishy or unusual vaginal odor isn't always a cause for concern. But if you're experiencing itching, pain, or other unexpected symptoms, it could point to an underlying condition like bacterial vaginosis. A healthy vulva and vagina may smell a bit like blood or copper, somewhat salty or sweet, or musky. A fishy odor may even happen from time to time with no underlying cause. In many cases, changing into a fresh pair of underwear after a bath or shower is enough to restore your usual odor. An odor that lingers after a thorough wash or occurs alongside other unusual symptoms could warrant an appointment with a doctor or other healthcare professional. Vaginal discharge, for example, is typically clear or slightly cloudy with a sticky, stringy consistency. In the days before menstruation, it might be closer to white than clear. Discharge tinged with gray, yellow, or green could point to an underlying infection, especially when coupled with an unpleasant odor, itching, or burning. Bacterial vaginosis (BV) A lingering change in odor, particularly a foul or fishy scent, is most commonly caused by BV Your body naturally contains a wide variety of bacteria, and your vulva and vagina are no exception. Although the body can usually maintain this delicate balance of bacteria, unexpected fluctuations can increase the risk of infection. BV can develop in response to an overgrowth of certain bacteria. However, the exact cause is unclear. You may be more likely to develop bacterial vaginosis if you: Other symptoms of bacterial vaginosis include: thin vaginal discharge that's gray, white, or green strong vaginal odor after sexual activity pain during or after penetrative sex pain or burning during urination itching in or around the vagina Trichomoniasis ('trich') Trichomoniasis is a sexually transmitted infection (STI) caused by the Trichomonas vaginalis parasite. People who have penises are generally asymptomatic, whereas people who have vulvas often experience symptoms. In addition to a foul or fishy vaginal odor, trichomoniasis can cause: increased vaginal discharge foamy or frothy discharge white, yellow, or green discharge pain during or after penetrative sex pain or burning during urination itching in or around the vagina redness around the vaginal opening Dehydration If you tend to notice the odor after you urinate, it could be a sign of dehydration. Urine is primarily water, with a small percentage of urea and other waste. If you aren't well hydrated, waste may be more pungent than usual. Urea, for example, is a byproduct of ammonia. It's often associated with a chemical-like smell, though some may describe it as fishy. Sweat Sweat-related body odor is often described as skunky, but this is ultimately subject to interpretation. Consider your recent activity levels — anything from lugging groceries up the stairs to lifting weights in the gym — and when you last washed up or changed your clothes. Your overall temperature, the fit and fabric of your clothes, and the weather outside can also contribute to genital sweating. Hygiene So-called 'feminine' hygiene products, like scented sprays and suppositories, can temporarily disrupt your overall vaginal pH. This can result in inflammation and irritation that may, in turn, lead to the overgrowth of odor-causing bacteria. Practices like douching and steaming can also alter the vagina's natural microbiome, increasing your risk of injury or infection. Sexual activity Solo or partnered play, with or without vaginal penetration, can also spur an unexpected change in scent. Condoms and lube, for example, can affect your vaginal pH. So can the exchange of bodily fluids. Sex toys and other erotic aids can also introduce bacteria, particularly when shared or improperly cleaned. Bacterial vaginosis and other underlying infections can exacerbate these symptoms, making your post-sex smell more pungent than usual. Trimethylaminuria In rare cases, a fishy odor may be the result of an inherited condition called trimethylaminuria. Your body naturally produces trimethylamine (TMA) when breaking down certain foods. The strong-smelling chemical generally breaks down into a less fragrant compound, allowing your body to excrete TMA without notice. People who have trimethylaminuria are unable to process TMA as expected. This can cause your breath, sweat, urine, or vaginal secretions to smell rotten or fishy. The smell may intensify with hormonal fluctuations, including menstruation and menopause. When should you consult with a doctor or other healthcare professional? If you've had a prior bacterial vaginosis infection, you might be comfortable using an at-home test to assess your current symptoms. You might also feel comfortable using an at-home STI test to check for trichomoniasis. This usually involves taking a urine sample to send to a lab. A healthcare professional will likely reach out to discuss a positive result. If you're uncomfortable with at-home testing or unsure of your symptoms, it's important to consult with a doctor or other healthcare professional. The following symptoms typically require medical intervention: strong vaginal odor after sexual activity gray, yellow, or green vaginal discharge foamy, frothy, or increased vaginal discharge soreness, burning, or itching Your clinician will ask you questions about your symptoms, your medical history, and recent sexual activity to help identify the potential cause. They'll likely perform a pelvic exam to check for inflammation and other abnormalities. Your clinician may also swab inside the vagina to take a fluid sample for lab testing. They may also ask you to provide a urine sample. If you aren't experiencing symptoms but have concerns about your scent, consult with a gynecologist or other healthcare professional. They can answer any questions you may have and may be able to set your mind at ease. What treatment options are available? Although bacterial vaginosis can resolve on its own, antibiotics can help speed the process along and alleviate your symptoms. A healthcare professional may prescribe: metronidazole, which can be applied topically or taken as a pill clindamycin, which can be applied topically, inserted as a suppository, or taken as a pill tinidazole, which is taken as a pill secnidazole, which is taken as a powder mixed with food Some over-the-counter products are marketed as effective treatments for bacterial vaginosis, but it's important to note that the Food and Drug Administration has not approved any over-the-counter method for use. Trichomoniasis will not resolve without treatment. Your clinician will likely prescribe the oral antibiotic metronidazole. Generally speaking, odor related to sweat, dehydration, and vaginal irritation can be managed with certain lifestyle changes. Limiting time spent in damp or wet clothes, washing more frequently, and staying hydrated can help. Lifestyle changes may also help with trimethylaminuria. Consult with a healthcare professional to learn more. What can you do to prevent unwanted vaginal odor? Practicing good hygiene is the best way to prevent unwanted vaginal odor. Depending on your activity level, this may look like bathing or showering every day, every other day, or just a few times per week. Warm water is all you need to cleanse your vulva, but you can also use a mild, fragrance-free soap. Stick to the external bits — your vagina is a self-cleaning machine. Internal 'cleansers' like douches are more harmful than helpful. When it comes to menstrual hygiene, keep an eye on the clock. Different products have different guidelines for the length of use. You may need to change your pad, tampon, cup, disc, or menstrual underwear more frequently. Wash your hands before and after changing menstrual hygiene products. If you use a reusable method, be sure to check out the manufacturer's guidelines for care. Avoid spending extended periods of time in sweaty clothes, particularly damp underwear or swimsuit bottoms. Wash up, pat yourself dry, and change into something dry as soon as possible. Opt for breathable materials, like cotton, when selecting underwear. You might also consider sizing up on pants, shorts, and other bottoms for a looser fit or selecting clothes with an airy silhouette. Adopting safer solo and partnered sex practices can also make a difference. Much like menstrual hygiene products, condoms, lubricants, sex toys, and other erotic aids have different guidelines for use. Regular STI testing can help you stay on top of your status and, if needed, start treatment sooner rather than later. The bottom line Your vulva — which includes your labia and vaginal opening — smells differently throughout your menstrual cycle. Different forms of physical activity, recent food intake, and overall hydration can also affect your unique scent. As long as you aren't experiencing other unusual symptoms, a change in smell may not be a sign of anything more. If the odor intensifies or lasts for more than a day or two, it could be related to an underlying infection or other health condition.
