AlĂcia asked
What happens if the period smell is strong
Soso answered
A mild, metallic smell on your period is normal. Tell a grown-up if a smell stays strong for several days, smells fishy or rotten, or comes with a change in discharge, itching or burning.
Blood itself has a slight metal scent because of iron, and when it mixes with normal bacteria and sweat down there, it can smell a bit different than usual. Changing your pad or period underwear regularly helps keep things fresh, because blood sitting on a pad for hours definitely starts to smell stronger. Change your pad every 4 to 6 hours, sooner on heavy days.
If you use tampons or a cup, keep this in mind: A very strong or rotten smell can mean one got left in, so check. If you can't get it out, or you feel unwell or hot, tell a grown-up straight away.
For keeping clean, wash the outside gently once a day, never inside, with no soap, shower gel, perfumed products, bubble bath or douches (a grown-up can help pick something gentle to wash with), and wear cotton underwear and nothing tight. If a strong smell does not go away after your period ends, telling a grown-up is the best next step so a doctor can take a look.
Soso's answers are written by AI. They don't replace professional medical advice.