At DAME, we understand the importance of menstrual hygiene and how it affects your health. We also get how important it is to take care of yourself during menstruation and that funky smell that can come along with your period can sometimes cause extra stress. 

But don't worry, we've got you covered! In this blog post, we're going to explain why you might notice a bit of a scent, what could be causing any unusual smells and how you can keep things fresh and clean. So let's dive in!

What causes menstrual odour?

It's completely normal for your period to produce a slight odour. The odour is caused by the combination of blood and bacteria in your vagina. This smell is usually mild and not noticeable to others, but it can be more noticeable to you because you're more sensitive to it.

Menstrual odour can fluctuate during your period, as the amount of blood and bacteria changes. For example, during the first few days of your period, when there's more blood, you may notice a stronger odour. As your period tapers off, the smell should become less noticeable.

What causes unusual smells during your period?

If you notice an unusual smell during your period, one that seems to be stronger than what you usually experience,  it could be a sign of an infection. The most common infection that causes a strong, unpleasant odour is bacterial vaginosis (BV). BV is caused by an overgrowth of bacteria in your vagina, and it can be triggered by a change in your pH levels, sexual activity, or using scented products. 

That said, there are infections that can cause a strong odour during your period including yeast infections and sexually transmitted infections (STIs). These infections may also cause itching, burning, or discharge, so if you're experiencing any of these symptoms, it's important to check your symptoms and contact your GP.

How to maintain menstrual hygiene and reduce menstrual odour?

Maintaining good menstrual hygiene is essential for reducing menstrual odour and preventing infections. Here are some tips for maintaining good menstrual hygiene:

• Practise good genital hygiene: Wash your genital area with mild soap and water every day. Avoid using scented products as they can disrupt the natural pH balance of your vagina and increase the risk of infection (a lot of intimate wash products contain fragrance so it can be best to avoid these).

• Change your pads or tampons frequently: Change your pads or tampons every four to six hours, or more often if you have heavy bleeding. Leaving pads or tampons in for too long can lead to bacterial growth and unpleasant odours.
• Use the right products: Choose menstrual products that are right for your flow and comfort level. Avoid scented pads or tampons, as they can cause irritation and increase the risk of infection.
• Wear breathable clothing: Wear breathable (preferably organic) cotton underwear and avoid tight-fitting clothing, as they can trap moisture and increase the risk of infection.

• Use probiotics: Probiotics can help maintain a healthy balance of bacteria in your vagina. You can take probiotics orally or use them as a vaginal suppository.

Freshen up your period

Please don't stress if you notice a bit of a smell during your period - it's totally normal. But if things start smelling a bit funky, it could be a sign of an infection. So, to keep things fresh and healthy down there, it's important to take good care of yourself. Make sure you practise good menstrual hygiene and follow the tips we've shared in this blog post. By doing so, you'll be able to reduce menstrual odour and keep your vaginal health in check. 

We're passionate about making your periods as comfortable and worry-free as possible, so give our products a try and let us know what you think! Happy bleeding!