How do I know if I have abnormal vaginal odor? Is it common to detect a strong odor in one's underwear?

Question

When I wear thong-type panties or tighter clothes like leggings, my vaginal odor becomes unpleasant and very noticeable. It is not a fishy smell and I have no symptoms of any infection. The smell is still strong and unpleasant. I have no choice but to wear this kind of underwear since I work out often. I also have a relatively heavy vaginal discharge that bothers me throughout my cycle but I don't have any signs of abnormality in texture or color. They are normally a bit transparent, sometimes pale yellowish or whitish but nothing alarming. In short, I feel like I have no choice but to wear heavy underwear to mask the odor and hold my discharge except that it limits me and I wonder if this is normal. My doctor diagnosed me with vaginosis medication based on the symptoms I described to him (to check and make sure to try), but my situation is still the same.

Naji-tom Samaha · Accepted Answer

Good morning, Mrs, I would like to reassure you that a certain odor does not necessarily indicate a problem, especially if you have already consulted a doctor about it and a problem has been ruled out. Odor is analogous to perspiration, and can depend on the time of day, diet, daily activities (e.g. sweating), and can even vary through the menstrual cycle. The first thing to focus on is non-pharmacological measures, if this has not been tried: Ensure basic hygiene with water. Products such as Vagisil and vaginal douches should be avoided. I suggest wearing clothes that are not tight and allow breathing, such as cotton clothes and underwear. It might be uncomfortable considering that your sportswear is tight as described, but the tighter your clothes are, the less breathing and ventilation you allow. The choice is in your hands. You mention that you have been doing this for a while. If there has been a recent change in smell, and/or any other new symptoms, it would be prudent to re-consult your doctor. I hope this has been helpful to you, and please don't hesitate to contact me if you have any further questions! Tom Samaha, pharmacist