A normal vaginal smell is usually mild, slightly tangy, sour, or musky, and it can vary a bit during your cycle. It should not be strong or foul-smelling.

What’s normal

  • Mild sour or tangy scent.
  • Slightly musky natural odor.
  • Temporary changes around periods, sex, sweating, or after exercise.

When to get checked

A strong fishy, rotten, or very unpleasant smell, especially with itching, burning, pain, or unusual discharge, can mean an infection or another issue and should be checked by a clinician.

If you want, I can also explain what different vaginal smells can mean in plain language.