Understanding Vaginal Fluids and Odor
It's common for women to sometimes notice unfamiliar or unpleasant smells coming from the vaginal area. One such occurrence is when vaginal fluids during sexual arousal and orgasm, commonly referred to as "squirting," have a urine-like odor.
What is Squirting?
Squirting refers to the expulsion of fluid from the urethral opening that can happen when some women experience intense sexual arousal and stimulation. It occurs with a contraction of the pelvic muscles during orgasm. The amount of fluid released can vary greatly between women.
These vaginal fluids are produced by the Skene glands (also known as paraurethral glands). This watery fluid is often clear and odorless. However, some women report it having a urine-like smell at times.
Why the Urine Smell?
There are a few reasons why squirt fluid might temporarily have a pee-like odor:
- It mixes with small amounts of urine - The urethra transports both urine and squirting fluid. Tiny urine remnants may mix into the squirting fluid, especially if bladder was not fully emptied beforehand.
- pH levels fluctuate - Vaginal pH naturally varies throughout the menstrual cycle. More acidic pH may increase unpleasant odor.
- Dehydration concentrates fluids - Not drinking enough water can make all bodily fluids more concentrated and potent-smelling.
Improving Smell
While squirting fluid naturally having some urine-like odor occasionally is no cause for concern, women feeling self-conscious about it can try:
- Keeping hydrated - Drinking more water dilutes fluid and urine odor.
- Urinating before sexual activity - Emptying the bladder minimizes mixing with squirting fluid.
- Avoiding odor triggers - Things that change pH balance like douching, caffeinated drinks, smoking, etc.
- Changing soap - Mild, fragrance-free cleansers maintain healthy pH.
When Vaginal Odor is Abnormal
While transient urine-like scent with squirting isn't worrisome, women should be aware of signs of abnormal vaginal odor indicating possible health issues:
Bacterial Vaginosis
Bacterial vaginosis (BV) happens when there is an overgrowth of bacteria in the vagina. The shift away from healthy bacteria causes gray, white or green, foul-smelling discharge. Women may also experience pain, itching or burning.
Trichomoniasis
“Trich” is a common sexually transmitted infection. Symptoms include yellow-green, frothy discharge with a strong odor. Discomfort urinating or during sex may also occur.
Forgotten Tampon
A tampon accidentally left inserted in the vagina for longer than advised can lead to unpleasant vaginal odor. Additional symptoms might include discharge, itching and abdominal pain if Toxic Shock Syndrome develops.
Women experiencing persistent abnormal vaginal odor accompanied by other symptoms like itching, pain, or visual changes should make an appointment with their doctor for an evaluation. An exam and lab tests can determine if an infection or other issue needs proper treatment.
When to See Your Doctor
It’s normal to have minor fluctuations in vaginal fluids and odor. Squirting fluid having a temporary urine-like scent due to getting mixed with small amounts of urine or changing pH is very common and harmless.
However, persistent foul or abnormal vaginal odor can signify an underlying medical issue needing attention. Make an appointment with your doctor if you notice odd vaginal smells accompanied by symptoms like:
- Itching, burning or pain
- Changes in discharge color/consistency
- Visible rash or sore
- Discomfort when urinating
- Lower abdominal cramping
- Fever or chills
Don’t hesitate bringing up questions or concerns about vaginal health with your doctor. An examination and tests can identify if any infections are present and determine proper treatment to restore wellness and comfort.
When to Call Emergency Services
If foul vaginal odor occurs alongside:
- Severe nausea
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Dizziness/Fainting
- Racing heart rate
- Breathing difficulties
- Fever above 102°F
...seek emergency care immediately, as these can indicate a rare but life-threatening condition related to an infection progressing rapidly.
Takeaway Points
It’s common for squirting fluid to sometimes smell a bit like urine due to factors like mixing, pH changes, etc. While unideal, this isn’t a health concern and usually resolves on its own.
Pay attention for persistent, irritating or worsening odor, gray/yellow/green discharge, or additional symptoms. These necessitate making a doctor's appointment for evaluation of a potential vaginal infection.
Extreme fatigue, high fever, body aches, vomiting, fainting? Skip the doctor’s office and go straight to the emergency room - rapid treatment is vital.
Ask your OBGYN or healthcare provider if you have any other questions or concerns about vaginal fluids, odor variations or your sexual health overall.
FAQs
Why does my vagina smell like urine sometimes when I orgasm and squirt?
It's common for squirting fluid to temporarily smell a bit urine-like due to possible mixing with small amounts of urine inside the urethra, natural fluctuations in vaginal pH, or concentration of the fluid when dehydrated. This scent usually goes away on its own.
What causes abnormal vaginal odor?
Persistent foul, fishy or musty vaginal odor, especially when accompanied by other symptoms, can indicate an infection or imbalance needing medical treatment. Common causes include bacterial vaginosis, yeast infections, trichomoniasis and forgotten tampons.
When should you see a doctor for vaginal odor?
Make an appointment if you notice consistent unpleasant vaginal odor along with itching, burning, abnormal discharge, pain, rashes or anything else unusual. Chlamydia and gonorrhea infections can also initially cause mild odor prior to other symptoms arising.
How can you prevent vaginal odor?
Practicing good vaginal hygiene, wearing breathable cotton underwear, urinating before sex, staying hydrated, avoiding potential irritants and sticking to mild unscented soaps can help balance vaginal pH and healthy bacteria levels to reduce odor.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.
Add Comment