Experience Licensed Naturopathic Physician for 7 years
Currently: Assistant Professor of Naturopathic Medicine, Department of CLinical Sciences, National University of Health Sciences, Lombard, IL
Organizations American Association of Naturopathic Physicians
Secretary and member of Illinois Association of Naturopathic Physicians
Education/Credentials Bastyr University, doctor of naturopathic medicine
University of Bridgeport College of Naturopathic Medicine, residency in family and integrated medicine
Question Hello, I had a question regarding a vaginal issue. About a day after my last period, I started noticing a strong odor after intercourse with my bf (I would describe it as a musky fishing and "stinky" smell?). During the day, I notice it a bit as well on my clothes (underwear actually, but when I actually touch my region down there for a whiff test its not that strong). In either case, I do not have itching or unusual discharge or pain, just this random "not fun" odor. I assumed its some bacterial imbalance and would like to consult natural alternatives...I've ruled out STDs (I've been monogomous with the same person for 4 years and have been previously tested) and its not a yeast infection as I know how I feel when I've had this. I heard garlic and acidophilus is good (garlic to kill the bacteria and acidophilus to promote growth of good bacteria). Any suggestions and or duration of how long and how much to take of both of these? At this point, I want to try a natural way as its just this odor that bothers me and nothing else and its not changing to worse, stays the same instead of being given drugs by the doctor and having to pay the excessive money. Thank you!
Answer Hello Eva,
Thanks for your question. From your description, bacterial vaginosis sounds like the source of the vaginal infection. For best results, I'd suggest you see a naturopathic doctor in your area (www.naturopathic.org) so you could confirm that, but if that is not possible or you feel confident that is what's going on, there are some things you can try on your own.
A typical recommendation for any imbalance of normal flora is an organic whole foods diet, low in sugars, processed foods, trans-fats, artificial dyes & sweeteners; high in water, fruits, vegetables, whole grains, legumes, with some oils, dairy, meats if desired. Along with the diet, adequate sleep, exercise, and stress management is recommended.
To address the vaginal infection specifically, you need 3 steps: remove the cause, eradication of the pathogenic flora, and restablishing normal flora.
As far as removing the cause, birth control pills may increase the risk for BV. You may be passing this between you & your boyfriend, so you might need to abstain from intercourse or try condoms for some time, while you are treating yourself. There might be other reasons, too, so if a simple treatment does not work, see a practitioner in person because something else might be occuring.
Supplements to help boost the immune system (echinacea, astragalus, garlic, vitamin C, bioflavonoids, olive leaf, zinc, etc.) can be taken orally to help the body reduce the pathogenic bacteria. Along with that, vaginal suppositories can be used, made from a mixture of herbs like garlic, etc. Other options are tea tree oil suppositories.
During this time, probiotics can help restablish the good flora, again both taken orally and inserted vaginally (at opposite times from the others). Replacement is typically done for a month or more after stopping the herbs.
Good luck!
Dr Conner
