“Why do I smell like fish,” and “Why does my penis smell” are two heavily searched questioned on a monthly basis. Every month, thousands of people ask Google to answer this question, due to lack of knowledge, embarrassment and confusion. It is a scary fact to you know your vagina or penis is giving off an odor, but it is even more horrifying to think that that anyone but you would know it. It is no secret that vagina’s smelling like fish is commonly used as a diss in rap tracks, movies, or as a low blow punch line. A common diss for women perceived as “dirty” smelling like fish is based on a lot of assumptions. Though men’s penis’ often give off a smell, and get as many searches in Google, it is not even discussed. So what is really going on? And can we get you the answer you “why do I smell like fish?” This week on All The FUQs, we can.

It is important to know that, it really is true, that thousands of people look up “why do I smell like fish,” and “why does my penis smell” by the thousands every month. This is because it is not an uncommon issue to have to address at least once in your life. We all naturally have a scent down there, and let’s be honest it ain’t vanilla. Sorry to reveal the truth, but penises and vaginas smell like… penises and vaginas!

Though they may not smell like a flower patch, you should be able to detect the difference between your natural odor and an unwelcomed one. Both men and women can experience unwelcomed discharges and odors and need be aware that it should be taken seriously. If your vagina does smell like fish and or your penis is giving off a strong, foul smelling discharge then this can very well be your body signaling an issue. Below we discuss some of the common reasons men and woman experience a strong odor and common mistakes to avoid.

Yeast Infection

Do Know

That’s right, both men and women can experience the discomfort of a yeast infection. Also known as thrush, a yeast infection is more common in women, but anyone can be experienced by anyone. Anyone!

Yeast infections are incredibly uncomfortable (yes I am talking from experience) and should not be ignored. Caused by the build up a naughty little bacteria, candida, yeast infections are pretty common. Reasons can range from having unprotected sex with someone with a high build up of candida themselves, a hormone imbalance, and antibiotics.

Yeast infections are typically easy to address with over the counter medication, but should be diagnosed by a doctor first.

Don’t

When taking medication to assist with a yeast infection, like creams, suppositories, and pills, it is important to complete the ENTIRE dosage. Do not think just because the symptoms have gone away your are done. OoO that just gets on my nerves! Just finish your medicine!

Bad Hygiene

Do Know

When you clean from head to toe, don’t forget about the middle! Unlike the penis, the vagina is self-cleaning and only needs soap and water run on the outside of it. Water can be run lightly inside the vagina but soap in not needed.

With the penis, especially is uncircumcised, be regular and through in your cleaning of your penis. Smegma, which is a build up of moisture, oil, or skin cells on the shaft of the penis needs to be cleaned off regularly with soap and water.  And don’t forget to dry off!

Don’t

Do not forget to wash up regularly, especially if you are sweaty. Changing out of damp clothing and cleaning off can help maintain the proper balance of bacteria in your genital region and keep odors down.  Also, try to avoid clothing that is tight or not breathable.

Bacteria

Do Know

Daily hygiene does play an important part in odor but is not the only cause. An imbalance on good and bad bacteria in your naughty bits can cause your nostrils to catch a whiff of something unpleasant.

For women, a common issue is bacterial vaginosis (BV) which is just a bacteria build up. The imbalance of bad bacteria to good can cause a grey discharge. 

Triochomoniasis is much less common and gives off a grey, yellow, or green discharge. Yep you read right! It can also come with a foul smell, itching, burning and pain.

Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID) is an infection that spreads from a woman’s vagina up towards their uterus, fallopian tubes or ovaries. STI’s when left untreated can lead to PID and cause serious issues 

For men, choosing not to thoroughly clean your penis with soap and water (especially under the flap of skin if you are uncircumcised) can cause a nasty smell and unwanted infections.

Don’t

Ignore or self medicate. Reach out to a doctor or two to confirm what is going on with you and follow the prescribed steps, within reason, to assuage the situation.

THE F.U.Q.s

Next time do not stop your search with “why do I smell fish,” or “why does my penis smell.” Also look up what steps you can take to keep a clean, hygienic genital area and confirm with a doctor that you take the correct steps going forward.

• Do not self-medicate or douche

• Do not ignore the symptoms

• Do not cover up with perfume!