Why suddenly notice an odor during intercourse

Suddenly noticing an unusual odor during intercourse may be caused by inadequate hygiene, mixed secretions, bacterial vaginosis, trichomoniasis, cervicitis, or other conditions. Improvements can be made through enhanced cleaning, adjusting sexual habits, and medical treatment. If the odor persists or is accompanied by itching or abnormal discharge, prompt medical attention is recommended.

1. Inadequate Hygiene: If both partners do not clean their external genitalia before intercourse, residual sweat and secretions may mix and promote bacterial growth, leading to odor. It is recommended to wash the external genital area with warm water before intercourse. Men should clean the glans and inner foreskin to prevent dirt buildup and associated odors.

2. Mixed Secretions Reaction: When vaginal discharge mixes with semen, a temporary physicochemical reaction may occur, producing a short-lived odor without other discomfort. It is advisable to wash the external genital area with warm water after intercourse, avoiding excessive vaginal douching, and keeping the area dry.

3. Bacterial Vaginosis: An imbalance of normal vaginal flora leads to overgrowth of anaerobic bacteria, causing infection and a characteristic fishy odor. The odor may worsen during intercourse and is often accompanied by increased thin, grayish-white vaginal discharge. Symptoms can be managed under medical guidance using medications such as metronidazole suppositories, tinidazole suppositories, or clindamycin cream.

4. Trichomoniasis: Caused by the sexually transmitted parasite *Trichomonas vaginalis*, this infection disrupts the vaginal environment, resulting in frothy, yellow-green discharge with a foul odor. The odor is particularly noticeable during intercourse and is commonly accompanied by external genital itching. Treatment under medical supervision may include metronidazole vaginal effervescent tablets, tinidazole tablets, or metronidazole gel.

5. Cervicitis: Inflammation of the cervix due to bacterial or pathogenic infection increases cervical secretions, which become purulent and malodorous. Intercourse may aggravate the odor, and mild lower abdominal pain may occur. Follow medical advice to use medications such as cefixime dispersible tablets, azithromycin dispersible tablets, or Baofu Kang suppositories to relieve symptoms.

In daily life, maintain cleanliness and dryness of the external genital area, wear loose-fitting cotton underwear, emphasize personal hygiene before and after intercourse, follow a light diet avoiding spicy and irritating foods, engage in moderate exercise to strengthen immunity, and reduce the risk of infections.