As you've probably noticed, puberty comes with all kinds of
changes - including the way your body looks and even the way you
might think it smells. These changes are a normal part of becoming
a woman, but lots of girls worry about them.
Do I Smell - and Can People Tell?
Many girls wonder if they smell "down there" - or
whether people will notice they have their periods. And some girls
wonder if they should use douches, wipes, or any of the other
products that claim to make women feel cleaner and fresher. But do
these work? And does a girl really need them?
The truth is that, under normal circumstances, no one ever
smells any odors from a girl's vagina. If a girl has an
infection, such as bacterial vaginosis, she may notice an
unpleasant fishy odor, in which case she should definitely see a
doctor. But it's unlikely that people around her will notice a
smell.
As far as periods go, if you change your pads or tampons
frequently, shower or bathe daily, and wear clean clothes, no one
can smell that either.
Douches, Wipes, and Feminine Sprays
Douches, feminine sprays, deodorants, or wipes supposedly keep a
woman's vaginal area smelling fresh and clean. Douching (the
name comes from the French word for "wash") refers to
washing out the vagina, usually with a prepackaged mix of fluids.
Unless a doctor tells you to, you never need to douche. Douching
can cause allergic reactions, irritation, and even infections in
the vagina.
Feminine sprays and deodorants aren't a good idea either.
They are often heavily perfumed and, like douching, can lead to
allergic reactions, irritation, and infections. Your vagina has its
own natural cleaning system that flushes out bacteria, so you
don't need to add any chemicals to help it.
When it comes to odors caused by infections, the treatment is
not a spray, but a prescription medication that treats the
infection rather than covering it up. If you think you may have an
infection, see a doctor or gynecologist right away.
It's easy to keep your vagina clean without making it smell
like a flower shop. Washing every day with a mild soap and plenty
of warm water will do the trick. Shower daily - although
substituting a warm bath during your period may reduce menstrual
cramps and give you reassurance about feeling clean.
What Else Can Help?
Wearing cotton underwear, especially in hot weather, can help a
girl feel fresher because cotton and other natural fibers are more
breathable.
During your period, change your pads or tampons often. It may be
a good idea to keep a spare pair of underwear in your backpack to
change into in case you happen to soak through your pad or
tampon.
Reviewed by:
Larissa Hirsch, MD
Date reviewed: June 2007
Note: All information is for educational purposes only. For specific medical advice,
diagnoses, and treatment, consult your doctor.
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