Smelly Period Blood: Should You Be Worried? When to See a Doctor, Menstrual Hygiene, And More

Generally, period blood smells slightly metallic due to the iron content. This is usually normal and may not even be noticeable to other people. However, when you have an unpleasant, almost fishy, odour that hits you hard, it might indicate that you have possible health issues. Some of them can be old menstrual discharge, infections, or even STIs (sexually transmitted infections). Dr Kajal Singh, Associate Professor, Obstetrics and Gynaecology Department, NIIMS Medical College and Hospital, notes that in most cases, a pungent or unpleasant odour during menstruation has a harmless reason even though it can be worrying at times. She tells us more.

Smelly Period Blood: Reasons, When to See Doctor, Etc

As per Dr Kajal Singh, “biologically, menstrual blood consists not just of blood but also vaginal secretions, cervical mucus, and endometrial tissue.”

And, upon coming in contact with air, especially in moist and warm conditions, “it becomes a breeding ground, resulting in a detectable odour,” she adds.

4 Primary Reasons of Foul-Smelling Period Blood:

1) Anaerobic Bacteria

Anaerobic bacteria, the organisms that thrive in environments with low oxygen levels, can lead to a metallic or pungent odour. 

2) Poor Menstrual Hygiene

Prolonged use of a single sanitary product or synthetic materials that trap heat and moisture can be an important contributor to smelly period blood.

3) Infection

Bacterial vaginosis, which results from an imbalance of the normal flora in the vagina, or STIs may develop a fishy or rotten smell to it.

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4) Toxic Shock Syndrome 

A rare cause might be a forgotten tampon that can lead to toxic shock syndrome (TSS). TSS is a potentially life-threatening condition with sudden onset, fever, rash, and a strong vagina odour.

When to See a Doctor

Dr Kajal Singh suggests seeking medical consultation if the odour is accompanied by unusual symptoms such as:

• Thick, discolored discharge
• Itching
• Burning
• Swelling
• Pelvic pain 
• Fever

“These signs may indicate an infection requiring prompt treatment,” she warns.

5 Tips To Ensure Optimal Menstrual Hygiene

Maintaining your vaginal health can take care of the repulsive odour emanating from your menstrual blood. Dr Kajal Singh states the crucial elements for managing an appropriate hygiene routine:

• Changing sanitary products every four to six hours
• Washing vulvar area with mild unscented soap
• Wearing breathable underwear
• Avoiding Douching 
• Not using scented products (can help conserve the natural pH level and microbiome of the vagina)

“Although odour during menstruation is often normal, if there are sudden or persistent changes in smell, clinical attention is warranted. Increased awareness and knowledge of menstrual hygiene will continue to be vital in alleviating stigma surrounding women’s health concerns and in supporting health and wellbeing,” wraps up Dr Kajal Singh, Associate Professor, Obstetrics and Gynaecology Department, NIIMS Medical College and Hospital.

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