Solving Vaginal Odor Post-Condom Use

Dear Aunt Vadge,

My boyfriend and I had sex for the first time last week. We were both virgins and he used a condom. We were very careful to make sure it didn’t tear or come off or anything like that. I also peed afterwards like I had always been told.

The next day I noticed a weird smell from my vagina. I don’t know how to explain it. It wasn’t really fishy, but it didn’t smell good or normal.

Then I started my period. I thought maybe the vaginal odor was just from my period, though I had never noticed it before. The smell went away after a day or two though. I assumed I was right about the smell being caused by my period.

A couple days after my period ended we had sex again. We also used a condom this time as well and were careful.

Afterwards the smell was back. I honestly meant to mention it to him, but just forgot. I then forgot about the smell as well so I’m not sure if it went away before we had sex again three days later. Then I noticed the smell again.

I’ve considered going to the doctor, I’m just trying to find time during the day. I read somewhere that it could just be the condom.

Could that be it? I don’t want to suggest he buy different ones if it doesn’t make any sense anyway.

Yours,
Confused
Age 23 USA
_____

Dear Confused,

Firstly, it’s great to hear that you both are being cautious and using protection, which is very important in maintaining sexual health.

Regarding the unusual vaginal odour after sex you’ve been experiencing, it’s quite possible that it could be related to the type of condoms you’re using. Some people can be sensitive to certain materials or lubricants in condoms, which might cause an unusual smell or other symptoms like irritation.

If the smell tends to occur after sex when using condoms and then disappears, it might be worthwhile to try switching to a different brand or type of condom.

Look for condoms that are unscented or made for sensitive skin, as these might be less likely to cause any unusual vaginal smells. Perhaps try a latex-free variety. Also, condoms can smell bad¹, so shop around for a brand that you both like – not all condoms are created equal.

However, it’s also important to rule out other potential causes of vaginal smells after sex. Unusual vaginal odours can sometimes be a sign of an infection, such as bacterial vaginosis or a yeast infection, even if other symptoms aren’t present and you don’t get any symptoms between sexual encounters.

Since this smell appeared suddenly and has been consistently recurring after intercourse, scheduling an appointment with your healthcare provider is a wise step. They can perform a few simple tests to rule out any infections or imbalances, which will also put your mind at ease.

If you come back with the all-clear but are still getting unusual odours, you may like to get a comprehensive vaginal microbiome test done, which you can order online and do at home. Then you’ll know exactly what’s going on. (The tests at the doctors are often cultures, which aren’t anywhere near as good as these newer tests.)

In the meantime, continue to maintain good hygiene, avoid douching (as it can disturb the natural balance of bacteria in the vagina), and perhaps experiment with different condom types to see if that resolves the issue.

Your proactive approach is commendable, and I encourage you to keep that same level of attentiveness towards your health moving forward. Take care!

Warm regards,
Aunt Vadge

References

1.
Beksinska M, Wong R, Smit J. Male and female condoms: Their key role in pregnancy and STI/HIV prevention. Best Practice & Research Clinical Obstetrics & Gynaecology. Published online July 2020:55-67. doi:10.1016/j.bpobgyn.2019.12.001