Dr. Farah Kroman: That’s a very good question and one that I can’t really answer accurately. Basically, It should have a bit of a smell but should not smell bad. Every woman smells differently so really it depends on you. If your vagina smells fishy, yeasty (think vegemite or beer) or like old blood, this is abnormal and should be seen to by your doctor. In terms of making it smell ‘nice’, the worst thing you can do is use perfumes, deodorant or vaginal douches (rinses). They make you prone to infection which will make you smell bad, and make you sore, itchy and uncomfortable. So long as you have good hygiene, wash every day and change your pad or tampon regularly during your period, there is nothing to worry about. Unfortunately, a girl’s worst enemy is other girls, especially in high school. Try and lead by example and say only nice things about other people
Dr. Farah Kroman: Discharge usually occurs 6 months to a year before you get your first period, so if you have had discharge for over a year and you are concerned that you haven’t had your period, than perhaps you should see your doctor. Discharge is normal and is there to keep you healthy. It prevents infection, lubricates and makes it easy for sperm to reach your uterus when you are trying to have a baby. It can vary in colour from clear to white and can go from thin and watery to thick and gooey. It should have a bit of a smell but should not smell bad. If you have itching or stinging or your discharge is grey, green, frothy, smelly or thick, white and cheesy, see your doctor. If you normally have a lot of discharge, a breathable liner is a good way to help you feel clean, fresh and dry.
Dr. Farah Kroman: White discharge is natural, it moves germs out of your body. However, if it becomes unusually smelly, itchy, lumpy or greenish see your Dr. You may like to consider wearing a breathable liner and change a few times a day to help you feel fresh.
My Vagina is Really Itchy
Dr. Farah Kroman: Itching and unusual discharges are a sign that you may have infection. In your case, the most likely thing would be thrush, which is an overgrowth of yeast, which gives itching, stinging and a thick white discharge. See your GP to confirm this and to talk about treatment.