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  |  Experts  |  Ask the Doctor  |  Vaginal odour
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Vaginal odour

by Dr Sarah Brewer

question
I have a really embarrassing problem with my vaginal area - it doesn't smell very nice. What could this mean?

answer
All women have a distinctive vaginal smell made up of secretions and pheromones designed to attract the opposite sex. Sometimes the smell can change and become offensive if the balance of bacteria present in the vagina changes. The most common cause is an imbalance known as bacterial vaginosis. This can only be diagnosed by examining fresh discharge under a microscope. Your best bet is to visit your local genito-urinary medicine (GUM) clinic for a confidential check-up (phone your hospital for details). The clinic will also screen you for other potential problems such as chlamydia.

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