Why Does Period Blood Smell Bad? Causes and When to Worry
Quick Take: Period blood can smell stronger than usual because of oxidation and normal pH shifts. Sharp “bad” smells—think fishy, rotten, or a persistent foul odor—can point to bacterial vaginosis, an STI, or another infection. If the odor shows up quickly after a missed tampon or product retention, remove it promptly and consider urgent care. If odor comes with itching, burning, pelvic pain, fever, or unusual discharge, get checked. Normal vs abnormal period odor: what “bad smell” usually means Oxidation and pH changes: how period blood can smell stronger Bacterial vaginosis and other infections: odor causes to recognize Retained tampon
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