5 Ways to Get Rid of a Fishy Vaginal Smell

Let’s be real: every vagina has its own natural scent. But if you notice a strong fishy smell down there, it’s totally okay to feel concerned — and you’re definitely not alone.

The good news? Most of the time, it’s something you can treat easily once you know what’s causing it. Here’s what experts recommend if you’re dealing with this situation:

1. Get Checked for Bacterial Vaginosis (BV) — It’s More Common Than You ThinkIf there’s a lingering fishy smell, there’s a high chance it’s bacterial vaginosis (BV). It’s basically when the “bad” bacteria in your vagina outnumber the “good” ones.

A quick trip to your doctor can sort it out. They’ll usually prescribe antibiotics — either a pill or a cream you use inside your vagina.

Once the balance is restored, the smell usually disappears fast. BV is the most common vaginal infection among women aged 15 to 44, according to CDC data.

Be Gentle with Hygiene (Seriously, Less is More)When something smells off, your first instinct might be to scrub harder or use perfumed soaps. Don’t! The vagina is self-cleaning and washing too much can actually make things worse.

Best practice:

Just wash the outside (vulva) with plain, warm water.

Skip scented products, douching, or “feminine sprays.”

Let the area breathe — cotton underwear and loose clothes are your friends.

Douching is one of the fastest ways to throw your vaginal bacteria into chaos.

Help Your Vagina Stay in BalanceYour vagina loves being slightly acidic. But things like stress, periods, soap, and even sex can throw the pH balance off.

What can help:

Eat more probiotics (like yogurt, sauerkraut, or a probiotic supplement).

Boric acid suppositories (over-the-counter but best used after doctor advice) can restore balance if you get frequent infections.

4. Practice Safe, Clean Sex to Avoid the Fishy Vagina SmellNot using protection can introduce semen (which is alkaline) and new bacteria that disrupt your vaginal vibe.

Encourage your partner to get checked if you keep getting infections.

Use condoms during sex.

Pee and rinse (with water only) after sex.

5. Drink Water and Watch What You EatIt sounds basic, but what you put into your body really does show up in places you least expect — yes, even your vagina.

Stay hydrated to help your body flush out bad bacteria.

Cut back on processed sugar, which can mess with your bacteria balance.

Load up on leafy greens, berries, and foods rich in Vitamin C.