Vaginal Odor During Pregnancy: What’s Normal and What’s Not

Key Takeaways:

• Hormonal changes during pregnancy can lead to a shift in vaginal odor, with increased blood flow and changes in vaginal pH contributing to these natural scent variations.

• Most changes in vaginal odor during pregnancy are normal, but strong, unpleasant odors accompanied by symptoms like itching, burning, or unusual discharge may indicate an infection that requires medical attention.

• Diet and hydration are influential factors in maintaining normal vaginal odor, while certain foods and dehydration may exacerbate unwanted scents during pregnancy.

Pregnancy is a whirlwind of changes, and while everyone talks about cravings, mood swings, and the endless bathroom trips, there’s one topic that too often gets left in the shadows: vaginal odor during pregnancy. Spoiler alert: you’re not alone if you’ve noticed things smell a little different down there these days. As your hormones shift and your body works overtime to support your growing baby, it’s only natural that things might, well, change, including your scent.

But how can you tell what’s simply another “normal” adjustment and what might be cause for concern? Whether you’re a first-time mom, navigating postpartum life, or just looking for straightforward advice, understanding what’s happening to your body can make all the difference. At Saalt, we know all about life’s leaks, discomforts, and the sometimes-awkward questions that come with womanhood. Period underwear flawlessly manages extra discharge, spotting, and moisture—keeping you fresh with breathable, leakproof layers. No PFAs, reusable for pregnancy, postpartum, and beyond.

That’s why we’re here to break down what to expect when it comes to vaginal odor during pregnancy, plus practical tips to help you feel fresh, confident, and supported every step of the way. So, let’s get into what’s normal, what’s not, and how you can stay comfortable as you embrace this next chapter.

Why Pregnancy Changes Your Vaginal Scent

Pregnancy triggers an impressive lineup of hormonal shifts, each one doing its best to prepare your body for the arrival of a little one. With hormones like estrogen and progesterone taking center stage, your body moves into overdrive, changing everything from your sense of smell to, yes, your own scent.

One of the main reasons for a change in vaginal odor during pregnancy is increased blood flow. More blood reaches your pelvic area, which can cause your vaginal tissues to become more sensitive and produce different secretions. This can make natural odors a bit more pronounced. You might notice a slightly sweet, musky, or metallic scent, all of which are typically normal.

Hormones also influence your vaginal pH. Your vagina is usually acidic, which helps keep bad bacteria at bay. But during pregnancy, hormonal changes might make things a bit less acidic, leading to shifts in your natural flora. With new bacteria in the mix, a change in odor isn't just likely; sometimes it's expected.

Pregnancy often brings more discharge, too. This increased vaginal discharge, called leukorrhea, is a way your body protects both you and your baby by keeping the vaginal canal clean and reducing the risk of infection. More discharge can mean more noticeable odors, but unless there's an unpleasant, fishy, or foul smell, this tends to be just another part of the journey.

In summary, changes in vaginal scent during pregnancy are almost always a result of perfectly natural shifts happening inside your body. Understanding these changes can help ease anxiety and empower you to recognize what's normal and when you may want to talk with your healthcare provider.

Hormonal Shifts and Their Impact on Odor

Pregnancy is basically a nine-month masterclass in how powerful hormones can be. As soon as you get that positive test, your body's chemistry starts shifting, and those changes show up in all sorts of ways, including how you smell. Estrogen and progesterone, the main players in pregnancy hormones, ramp up and trigger a domino effect that impacts everything from your mood to your vaginal environment.

One of the biggest shifts? Your vaginal pH gets a major overhaul. These hormones tweak the balance of good and bad bacteria in your vaginal microbiome, sometimes leading to an increase in discharge and a change in natural scent. While a mild, slightly musky odor is common (and totally normal), you might notice that things smell different than they used to. It’s the body’s way of adapting to create a protective, baby-friendly environment.

Of course, everyone’s body is unique. For some, hormonal changes can amplify sweat production, which mixes with other fluids and can create new, unfamiliar scents. Others may experience a slightly sweet or sour smell, all thanks to that hormonal rollercoaster. Menstrual cups and menstrual discs flawlessly collect extra discharge without absorbing or drying—medical-grade silicone stays hygienic, reduces odor buildup for leak-free pregnancy comfort. Pair with period underwear flawlessly for ultimate support.

As long as the odor isn’t strong, fishy, or accompanied by itching, burning, or unusual discharge, these scent changes are a natural part of the pregnancy journey.

Normal Pregnancy Odors Versus Red Flags

During pregnancy, your body undergoes a whirlwind of hormonal changes. It's not uncommon to notice a shift in vaginal odor, sometimes sharper, earthier, or simply “different” from what you’re used to. Typically, this is completely normal. Increased blood flow, fluctuations in pH levels, and higher amounts of sweat and discharge are all in play, and each can add its own subtle scent to the mix. A mild, musky, or slightly sour odor, especially noticed after exercise or at the end of the day, generally doesn’t signal a problem.

But some signs warrant a closer look. If your vaginal odor becomes strong or unpleasant, (think fishy, rotten, or metallic), it could indicate an infection or imbalance. Additional warning flags include:

• Thick, greenish or yellow discharge

• Itching, burning, or swelling

• Painful urination or sex

• Unusual bleeding outside of spotting

Pregnancy does make you more susceptible to certain infections, like bacterial vaginosis or yeast infections, which require medical attention. Trust your senses: when your body’s odor shifts from “new normal” to unmistakably off, especially if symptoms come packaged with redness or discomfort, reach out to your healthcare provider. Being proactive helps ensure your health (and your baby’s) stays on track.

Common Infections That Alter Smell

During pregnancy, hormonal and immune changes can make you more vulnerable to infections that alter vaginal odor. While mild changes are typical, a strong or persistent smell may signal an infection.

Bacterial Vaginosis (BV): BV occurs when healthy vaginal bacteria are disrupted, causing a strong, fishy odor and thin, gray discharge. It’s more common in pregnancy and requires medical attention. (Cleveland Clinic)

Yeast Infections: Increased estrogen can lead to yeast overgrowth, resulting in thick white discharge with a bread-like or sweet scent, plus itching and irritation. (Web MD)

Trichomoniasis: A sexually transmitted infection causing an unpleasant, musty odor and frothy, yellow-green discharge. Often symptomless, but any new odor should be checked. (Web MD)

Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs): UTIs may cause a strong or foul urine smell and pelvic discomfort. They’re common in pregnancy and should be treated promptly.

If you experience a strong or unusual vaginal odor, especially with irritation or discomfort, consult your healthcare provider. Prompt attention ensures your health and pregnancy safety. 

For day-to-day support (and to stay comfortable between check-ins), period pants flawlessly handle discharge, light leaks, and sweat with breathable, stay-dry layers—helping you feel cleaner and more confident without masking odor or irritating sensitive skin.

How Diet and Hydration Influence Vaginal Odor

What you eat and drink can have a direct impact on the way your body smells, including vaginal odor during pregnancy. Hormonal shifts already set the stage for changes, but your diet acts as the supporting cast, either subtly or dramatically influencing the production of certain odors.

Hydration is the unsung hero here: when you’re well-hydrated, your body efficiently flushes out toxins and maintains balanced vaginal flora. Dehydration, on the other hand, may intensify odors or lead to irritation that throws your vaginal pH off balance.

Certain foods are notorious for altering body odors, especially during pregnancy when sensitivity to smells is heightened. Foods like garlic, onions, and strong spices (think curry or cumin) can cause your sweat and bodily fluids to take on a more pungent scent. Meanwhile, eating lots of sugar or highly processed foods may encourage overgrowth of yeast or bacteria, which can add to unusual odors.

On the flip side, leafy greens, citrus fruits, and yogurt rich in probiotics support healthy vaginal flora and fresher overall body scent. Increasing your intake of water-rich foods like cucumbers and watermelon, as well as making a habit of drinking water regularly, can help everything remain as balanced as possible.

The bottom line: pregnancy is a time to tune in to your body and make small adjustments. Being mindful of what you eat and drink is one of the simplest ways to support vaginal health and feel more at home in your body as it works overtime to grow new life. Leakproof panties lock in extra moisture from discharge or sweat—breathable, reusable layers keep you dry and odor-fresh without irritation, perfect for pregnancy's hormonal shifts.

Bladder Leaks or Discharge? Telling the Difference

During pregnancy, your body is constantly surprising you with new changes, sometimes delightful, sometimes bewildering. One of the most common surprises? Noticing wetness in your underwear and wondering: Is this normal discharge, or is it something else like bladder leaks?

Both discharge and bladder leaks are common during pregnancy, but they have some key differences:

• Discharge: It’s normal for vaginal discharge to increase in volume and change in consistency while you’re pregnant. Typically, healthy discharge is thin, milky, and mild-smelling. Its role is to keep the vagina clean and reduce the risk of infections.

• Bladder leaks: Hormonal fluctuations, plus the growing pressure from your uterus, can weaken pelvic floor muscles—making it easier for small amounts of urine to sneak out, especially when you cough, sneeze, or exercise. This accidental urine leakage is known as stress incontinence.

How can you tell which is which? Start with these tips:

• Take a closer look: Vaginal discharge is usually clear or white and often feels slippery. Urine tends to be yellowish and has a distinctive smell.

• Notice the timing: If you find wetness after laughing or a physical activity, it’s more likely a bladder leak. Discharge will generally show up throughout the day, regardless of physical triggers.

• Sniff test: While not glamorous, urine has a distinctly sharper scent compared to the milder, sometimes slightly sweet odor of normal discharge.

• Track the volume: An increase in discharge is expected, but sudden gushes or ongoing trickles could signal a bladder leak, or, rarely, fluid from your amniotic sac. If you experience ongoing heavy wetness, talk to your healthcare provider.

Remember, neither bladder leaks nor changes in discharge should cause pain, burning, or severe discomfort. If they do, or if you notice a strong, foul odor, changes in color, or any blood, check in with your provider to rule out infection or other issues. Learn how do period panties work for flawlessly handling pregnancy discharge—multi-layer gussets wick, absorb, and block leaks for all-day freshness and confidence.

Embracing Every Stage with Confidence

Pregnancy is a journey loaded with surprises, some joyful, some just plain confusing. Vaginal odor during pregnancy is common, and most of the time, it's nothing to be alarmed about. Your body is working overtime, and changes in your vaginal environment are completely normal. Still, it’s always wise to trust your instincts. Don’t hesitate to reach out to your healthcare provider if something feels off, or if the odor is accompanied by discomfort, itching, or unusual discharge.

At Saalt, we know that every phase, pregnancy, postpartum, navigating periods, or managing everyday leaks, comes with unique challenges. Discover the cup for period, menstrual disc, and best period underwear that flawlessly support you: collect flow hygienically, reduce odor buildup, and provide leakproof security without irritation. Our leakproof underwear is designed to provide comfort and security throughout each life stage, so you can stay focused on what’s really important. Made sustainably and without harsh chemicals, Saalt’s products are about supporting you (and the planet!) whenever leaks or changes happen.

Remember, being proactive about your health empowers you to step confidently into every moment, leak and all. You deserve comfort, peace of mind, and the freedom to live life on your terms. So, listen to your body, and let Saalt have your back, now, and for every stage ahead.

Read Also:

• Vaginal Discharge and Its Meanings

• Discharge Before Your Period: What’s Normal And What’s Not

• Why Does My Period Smell? Understanding What’s Normal and What’s Not

Frequently Asked Questions About Vaginal Odor During Pregnancy

Is vaginal odor normal during pregnancy?

Yes, experiencing some changes in vaginal odor during pregnancy is completely normal. Your body goes through a surge of hormones and increased blood flow, which can change your natural scent. As long as the odor isn’t strong or unpleasant, it’s generally nothing to worry about.

How does pregnancy affect vaginal odor?

Pregnancy hormones cause your vaginal pH to shift, which can change the way you smell. You might notice a slightly sweet, musky, or metallic scent. This is simply your body’s way of adjusting to all the amazing things it’s doing to support your growing baby.

What kind of vaginal odor is considered normal when pregnant?

A mild, slightly sweet, or musky odor is normal when you’re pregnant. If the odor doesn’t come with other symptoms like itching, burning, or unusual discharge, it’s usually just part of the journey. Everyone’s body is unique, and what’s normal for one person might be different for another.

When should I be concerned about vaginal odor during pregnancy?

If you notice a strong, fishy smell, or your vaginal odor is paired with itching, burning, unusual discharge (especially green, gray, or thick white), or discomfort, it’s time to check in with your healthcare provider. These could be signs of infections like bacterial vaginosis or yeast infections, both of which are very treatable but need attention.

Does vaginal discharge contribute to vaginal odor when pregnant?

Absolutely! Discharge naturally increases during pregnancy and can mix with sweat and other fluids, sometimes intensifying your natural odor. Usually, this is totally normal. Wearing breathable, leakproof underwear, like Saalt’s, can help keep you comfortable and dry, while supporting vaginal health. If the discharge changes a lot in color, consistency, or smell, let your doctor know.

Sources:

1. Clinic, C. (2025a, April 11). Pregnancy discharge: What’s normal and what’s not. Cleveland Clinic. https://health.clevelandclinic.org/pregnancy-discharge

2. Fields, L. (2024, March 14). 7 most embarrassing pregnancy Symptoms. WebMD. https://www.webmd.com/baby/features/7-embarrassing-pregnancy-symptoms

3. WebMD Editorial Contributor. (2024, November 4). How to get rid of vaginal odors: Remedies and treatments. WebMD. https://www.webmd.com/women/how-get-rid-vaginal-odors