What could be the cause of foul excessive vaginal discharge?

Question

Hello doctor,

I have been experiencing excessive, foul-smelling vaginal discharge for several years. Despite undergoing multiple BV tests and STI checks, all of which have yielded negative results, this issue persists. It's become so severe that I need to constantly use tissue or sanitary towels in my underwear. Within a few hours, my underwear becomes saturated and emits a foul odor. This has led me to question if there might be a slight incontinence or rectal issue contributing to this problem. It is affecting my sex life and overall mental health. Kindly help.

Thank you.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I can understand your concern.

Abnormal vaginal odors may result from various causes:

An imbalance in vaginal bacterial levels can lead to infection and inflammation, a condition known as vaginitis. Common types of vaginitis causing unpleasant odors often present additional symptoms, such as abnormal vaginal discharge.

The primary causes of unpleasant vaginal odor include the following:

Bacterial vaginosis (BV): An infection caused by a disruption in vaginal flora. BV typically produces a fishy odor, especially noticeable post-sex. A gray or grayish-white discharge is a common symptom.
Trichomoniasis: This sexually transmitted infection, caused by a parasite, might not always show symptoms. However, when it does, it can cause a fishy or musty odor, similar to BV. A greenish-yellow discharge is another characteristic symptom.

The vaginal odor might also indicate the following:

Rectovaginal fistula: A rare condition permitting feces leakage from the rectum into the vagina, resulting in a foul-smelling discharge.
Vaginal cancer: Symptoms include heavy discharge with a strong odor.
Cervical cancer: Symptoms may involve a strong, unpleasant-smelling discharge.

I hope this information will help you.

Thank you.