You can always rely on reddit to talk about the issues that no-one really wants to talk about, with zero BS and they've only gone and done it again. Up for discussion this week? Smelly vaginas.
1. People reckon certain foods make it smell different
Can relate. If I eat onion my nether regions smell of onion for three days.
So true. I can eat garlic aioli by the bucket but only do so if I know I'm not getting laid for the next few days.
Just like when you have a curry and the next day you’re almost certain you’re sweating balti from your armpits, apparently foods can affect how you smell down there. According to Buzzfeed, this is because certain foods that have a strong smell (like onions and garlic) affect your general sweat scent, which means it can change how your vagina smells too (yes, because it sweats).
It's like the myth that a man eating pineapple can make his sperm sweeter: no research has absolutely confirmed this although this one writer did test it out and report positive results.
2. If at first you don’t succeed, see another GP
The creator of the thread, Koltz, has an important message:
‘Moral of the story - if you are dealing with a smelly vagina, go see a doctor. If your first doctor ignores you, seek a second opinion. Don't let your ego or internet research deter you from getting a professional assessment.’
It’s true, if you really think something’s not right, don’t take ‘no’ for an answer. Ask to see another doctor, or be referred. It’s your body after all, and you’ve got to deal with it.
3. Swamp Crotch is a thing
Right, so this is a new one. The general gist is that it’s when your crotch gets all warm and sweaty and generally a bit gross so it starts to smell. See also: swamp ass, swamp balls and swamp vagina. According to Urban Dictionary it produces ‘one of the worst smells known to mankind’. Buzzing for summer. Seriously, can't wait.
4. Infections aren’t necessarily all oozing puss and stuff
If you look at the symptoms, you'll see words like abnormal vaginal discharge, vaginal itching, vaginal pain, pain during intercourse and pain during urination. If you don't have any of these symptoms, its easy to dismiss the idea of an infection.
Which is really why I made this post in the first place. I had no idea that you could have an infection that ONLY caused a bad smell and no other symptoms.
Another very valid point: if you think something's up but there doesn't seem to be something overtly 'wrong' with your vagina and you're not displaying the common symptoms, it's still important to make an appointment with your GP to get it checked out.
5. Grandpas have no place in this kind of thing
well my grandpa put it this way:
if they taste "metalic" when you go down on them they are clean
If sour or anything, they are not clean
Like, if you're in a conversation about sex or female anatomy and your contribution begins with 'well my grandpa put it this way' just stop. Stop it now. No one needs that information in their life. Lie about who gave you that advice like any other member of society would. What's wrong with you?
Like this? You might also be interested in:
Women Are Putting Herb Balls In Their Vagins To 'Detox' The Womb
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This article originally appeared on The Debrief.