Your body holds many wonderful and strange surprises. Some of these surprises may be unpleasant and smelly.
A temporary bad smell just before shower time is normal, but a strong smell that permeates your skin could signify other problems.
Continue reading to learn more about the causes of your discomfort and how you can treat it.
What causes groin odors in women born with a vegina?
To maintain tissue health, the pH balance is essential for the vagina. Unusual odors can result from pH imbalances or infections. Here are some possible causes.
Bacterial vaginosis
Bacterial vaginosis occurs when there is an overgrowth of bacteria.
These are the symptoms:
- Vaginal discharges that are unusually gray or white, or too much of either,
- Strong odor, which could be described as “fishy”.
- Itching and burning sensations around the groin.
The condition may resolve independently, but doctors can prescribe antifungal medications or antibiotics to treat it.
Tampon trap
An inserted tampon can become sideways, or the tampon string may move into the vagina. You may lose track of the tampon or have difficulty removing it.
The following symptoms are indicative of a stuck Tampon:
- discolored, foul-smelling discharge
- Urinating causes pain
- Fièvre
- There is swelling around and in the vagina.
The cervical opening is small enough for a tampon not to pass through your vaginal canal. However, a trapped tampon can have serious side effects. This includes an illness called toxic shock syndrome.
This will prevent this from happening.
Trichomoniasis
Trichomoniasis, a sexually transmitted disease (STI), affects approximately 3.7 million Americans, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Trusted Source.
Although symptoms are only present in a third of those with the condition, they can be seen in:
- Discolored vaginal discharge
- Urination pains
- Soreness in the groin
- Unusual, fishy odor
Antifungal medications like metronidazole are available as a treatment. Even if they have been treated previously, trichomoniasis can return.
Rectovaginal fistula
A rectovaginal fistula, an abnormal connection between the rectum and vagina, causes stool and other bowel contents to leak into the vagina.
Trauma from childbirth, which causes third- or fourth-degree vaginal tears, is the most common cause. The condition can also be caused by a history of surgery, Crohn’s disease or cancer.
These are the symptoms:
- The vaginal smells of gas from the stomach
- abnormal bleeding
- Passage of stool through the vagina
The treatment includes both surgical correction and treating the underlying condition.
Hormonal changes
Menopause hormones can cause thinning of the vaginal tissues. This can alter the pH balance. This can lead to an unusual, acidic odor.
Doctors can treat vaginal atrophy caused by menopause with either topical or oral hormones.
Vaginal or cervical cancer
Most cancers of the cervix and vagina don’t usually show symptoms until later stages. Some people might notice:
- unusual bleeding
- pain during sex
- Unusual vaginal discharges that could smell foul
The type of cancer and its spread will determine which treatment is required. These treatments may include chemotherapy or surgery.
What causes groin odors in people with a penis?
Penises sufferers are more susceptible to infection and other conditions that can cause strong-smelling odors. The following are some examples.
Hyperhidrosis
Hyperhidrosis causes excessive sweating. This is most common in men. Testicles can rub against the skin and cause sweating to increase. Bad odors can be caused by extra sweat.
Cornstarch is used to absorb sweat. You can also wash and dry the groin regularly with mild soap. Finally, wear loose-fitting underwear (such as boxers) that doesn’t restrict movement. A doctor might be able to prescribe medication to stop the excessive sweating if it continues.
Smegma
Uncircumcised males can develop smegma, which causes dead skin cells, fluids, oils, and fungi to build up. Smegma can form underneath the skin’s foreskin. It is thick and whitish with a strong smell. Exceedingly buildup can lead to redness, swelling, and discomfort.
Balanitis can develop if smegma is not treated. Smegma can be removed by pulling the skin back and gently cleaning with warm soapy water.