White Discharge With an Unpleasant Smell : What Is It?

White discharge with an unusual smell usually points to one of two very common, treatable conditions.

Bacterial vaginosis (BV): The most likely cause. BV happens when normal vaginal bacteria are disrupted and harmful bacteria overgrow. The smell is often described as fishy, stronger after sex. Discharge with BV is usually thin and grayish-white. BV isn’t an STI. Treatment is a short antibiotic course (metronidazole or clindamycin), prescribed by a doctor.

Yeast infection: Discharge is typically thick and cottage-cheese-like with a mild yeasty smell rather than a strong odor. Itching is usually the main complaint.

Trichomoniasis: An STI with foul-smelling discharge (white, yellow, or green), often with itching and redness.

Smelly discharge doesn’t resolve on its own.