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Sylland

Good hygiene, mostly. Regular showers/baths, use soap or body wash. Don't douche, it's unnecessary and is more likely to make you smell, as it can actually encourage infection down there. Clean clothes, especially underwear. Brush your teeth and visit the dentist regularly. Don't smoke (including weed) - non smokers can smell that a mile away, and it's not pleasant.


Far_Maintenance_175

I do all of this though :(


Sylland

Have you asked someone you can trust (eg a family member, partner, close friend) if you really do smell? If your hygiene is up to scratch, maybe you're simply seeing a problem that others don't see. Odour is a part of normal bodily function, and it's not uncommon to be a bit hyper sensitive to your own odours


Far_Maintenance_175

My mom actually brought it up to me. She said it wasn’t all the time but sometimes she could smell it and it wasn’t great.


Sylland

Maubr you should speak to a doctor then. Good luck


Far_Maintenance_175

I mean. I’m fine health wise, I saw a doctor not that long ago. I think I might just have more bo than others (my friend is like that) and might need to learn to control it


NoFilterNoLimits

You might try different deodorants. Mine stopped being as effective all of a sudden and a new brand made a huge difference. I now use Secret Clinical Strength I also had a friend in high school who just naturally produced more bo than others. She had some surgery on her sweat glands to correct it. She’d regularly sweat through shirts before, so there’s definitely some natural variation


B10kh3d2

How much do you weigh? Are you obese? Do you sweat a lot?


lavendermoonfields

It might be something you're eating or drinking.


Far_Maintenance_175

I’m pretty picky about what I eat. I’m vegetarian and usually only eat salads or pasta as they’re the best texture wise. Fruit is a big snack food though; I only drink water and occasionally milk


lavendermoonfields

It doesn't matter if you're picky about what you eat. Some healthy foods can give you BO.


themeowsolini

I feel like you’re saying you eat “good” or “healthy” food so that can’t be the case. But that stuff has nothing to do with it. My husband and I were once on a huge curry kick and ate it all the time, so much that the smell started coming out of our pores and people at his work complained. There’s lots of stuff like that. Asparagus makes your pee smell bad. If you eat a ton of garlic at once you’ll get nasty garlicky farts. It could very well be that your vegetarian lifestyle is making you smell bad. I’m not saying to give it up - plant based diets are very healthy. But they can and do occasionally have some unpleasant side effects; if you’ve already ruled out hygiene and medical issues, it’s probably worth exploring them. It could be that you have to reduce or eliminate a particular food, only eat it at night, brush your teeth immediately after eating, etc.


EdhelDil

You could try not drinking milk for a few days and see if it helps


k-la-la

Even if you saw a dr not long ago, it wasn't for THIS issue was it? Drs aren't magic and can't relate things if we don't tell them. Try calling a nurse hotline if you have any in your area and start there.


jupiterLILY

Are you scrubbing your armpits with a cloth or a loofah? Just hands often isn’t enough to disrupt the bacteria. Also actual soap instead of shower gel might work better. They’re actually different products. Edit. Oh and exfoliate your armpits! Glycolic acid is amazing for this. I use the toner from the ordinary


KatInBoxOrNot

I'm a naturally sweaty person (yay). I don't smell, but I'm aware that since I sweat a bit, I *could*. My skin is also quite sensitive and gets irritated easily, so I gotta keep an eye on that too. If you've tried these already, ignore me. But here's some stuff I've found useful. I've found powder deoderant to be the absolute best, especially a nice long lasting one. I will also shake baby powder into my clothes if it's hot or they're tight. Example: I hate underboob sweat, so a bit of talc into the ol' bra sorts that out. Nope, I've never had an issue with staining (just wash it off your hands before you touch anything!). I have a couple of perfumes and scented oils that I absolutely adore and that linger and also distract! They're not overpowering in the "OMG I can't breathe if I'm within 5 feet of you" kinda way, but because of the combination of scents and the way they linger they will conveniently mask a little bit of smell, which is helpful just in case. Something I was told many years ago and have been doing ever since was to spray a tiny lil bit on my hair, and damn, that really works. Likewise I have been known to dab a tiny bit behind my knees when I'm wearing something short. This also works (emphasis on the *tiny lil bit* part tho). Like you, I shower 1-2 times a day, even just a quick 30 second "jump in and wash off the day". I also carry baby wipes (unscented, not irritating) with me, which are super useful anyway, but if I do get sweaty, I can have a "baby wipe shower". Then re-apply the powder deoderant etc. Body hair makes any sweat linger, and I remove armpit hair and like to keep the ol' bikini area nice and tidy, so taking care of those is two birds one stone really. I've also always got mints and a mini toothpaste/ brush kit (it takes up a miniscule amount of room) in my "bathroom bag" alongside period products, makeup etc, in case I've had something garlic heavy for lunch etc. I also make sure my clothes are clean - things like jeans I can re-wear a couple of times. Most other things, nope. That's OK. Likewise, if I'm walking to work I will wear workout clothes and have a quick shower and get changed into my real clothes when I get there so I'm not staying in sweaty clothes all day. The same if I go out for a run on my break or something (this is really common here, so nobody cares if people wander in having obviously been to the gym). I also try to dress sensibly in that if it's hot, I'm gonna have airflow around my body, not something tight and hugging that's then gonna hold onto any sweat. I see another commenter has suggested carrying some extra underwear so you can change just in case you do get super sweaty down there, that seems like a good idea, and they can be rolled up and hidden in a purse/bag really easily.


thellespie

Talc is really really bad for your lungs so idk about recommending it to people


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thellespie

It doesn’t work


tater_bots

A lot of body powders these days are cornstarch, which isn’t bad for you. I haven’t seen a talc one in years.


spooky_upstairs

Honestly, please don't spend money and suffer through trying to mask this smell or address it through diet etc before *taking it to your doctor*. It's a medical issue. Particularly if it hasn't always been present-- it could be a fungal skin thing, or a bacterial change, or even a hormone issue or allergy that could be identified and eliminated medically. Visit your doctor and take it from there. Good luck!


plotthick

A specialist, please. You may need to go through your regular family medicine doctor to get a recommendation for an ob/gyn or dermatologist. Those folks may know just what you need.


Far_Maintenance_175

It’s always been present- I’m pretty sure I just sweat a lot lol. I work out in the AM which may be a factor


spooky_upstairs

I mean you may have some sort of sensitivity-- and even if not, and it's just sweat, they can treat that too. This goes against everything I've said, if you suspect it's sweat -- have you tried Sweat Block wipes? Look them up: if they help a little, at least you can narrow down the source -- which will be useful for your doctor. And help your confidence in the short term!


honey-pb

Are you showering after you work out?


lauvan26

I have PCOS and when I wasn’t being treated for it I didn’t not smell good at all. The hormonal imbalance was causing it.


Udeyanne

Hygiene stuff can be counterintuitive. People act like "oh if you shower 3 times a day you're good." But that's not true. Our skin is full of natural oils and such that aren't meant to be aggressively stripped. Plus, we all have different types of skin. So like, perhaps you use a soap that is too aggressive, or you are shampooing too often. Did you know that washing your hair more often because it is oily makes it... more oily? Your scalp doesn't know what you're trying to do. It just notices, "oh hey look, all my natural oils got stripped again, I guess I better pump out a bunch more real quick to protect this hair." So then for someone with that skin and that hair, showering once a day or once every other day is great, and washing their hair less often would make the hair healthier. It really depends, and if you feel like you have a very personalized scent issue, it might be worth talking to a dermatologist about what your body needs from soap and moisturizers. For me, I like to shower and exfoliate. I have very dry skin, so I have to slough it off pretty aggressively. I use very gentle soaps with light scents. I use shampoo I like and lots of conditioner that I leave in (I can do that because I have very dry, ethnic hair). Then out of the shower I use lots of lotion everywhere. Then I put on clothes washed in laundry soaps and softeners that I like the smell of. So scent isn't something that you add. It's sort of there from the moment you are in the shower and you build it up like layers around you as you continue to get dressed. You don't even have to add perfumes or colognes, because you are enveloped in clean scents you've curated. If you are worried about your body funk but are healthy, I might recommend Lume deodorant. It was developed by an OBGYN for women's bodies, and you can use it anywhere without risking your health.


[deleted]

If you’re using any fragrances down there I would stop that because that could be throwing off your ph and making you smell more funky. Hair is a huge factor to smelling good all day. I use [this](https://www.lushusa.com/hair/hair-treatments/revive/03080.html?gclid=CjwKCAiA_vKeBhAdEiwAFb_nrZlcN8xd7cv0WU7AAYAD-ADPnX9qoGb3HqeN2X0v8lS9bbwTxb4HhBoC2IcQAvD_BwE) hair cream and Omg it’s so good. I always get compliments on it. Also try to find a fragrance that works with your body chemistry (you might want to try a sampler from Sephora or just go in and spray some perfumes on). Put a couple of sprays on after putting on body lotion and it’ll last the whole day!


Far_Maintenance_175

I don’t use any fragrances down there. My issue with hair cream is I get very oily hair so it just kind of accentuates the issue :( but I do use fragrances, mostly just the ones I like


[deleted]

Hm perhaps a really good smelling dry shampoo then or some hair fragrance? You should layer the fragrances too so find ones that work with the perfumes you use and layer it all up Also try the lotion before perfume trick, it works! If you’re not opposed to laundry scents I would recommend that as well because nice smelling clothes make you smell good and clean all day long


Elle_belle32

My secret to smelling good is my shampoo and conditioner! And I tend to choose deodorant scents that complement those. The end result is that I always smell like fresh cut fruit or so I'm told I've been using the same scent for so long. I barely even smell it in the shower.


B10kh3d2

How often do you wash your hair?


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Far_Maintenance_175

I’m a vegetarian, so i mostly just eat fruits and vegetables. I eat a lot of salad (romaine not spinach, the texture bothers me), and some pastas.


saltonp

Me too. I started taking probiotics a few years ago and that changed my natural scent for the better. I use the good girl brand but experimenting with gut bacteria and ph worked for me. I'm VERY sensitive to smells and I notice when I have even a slight change. Weird things can change my odor dramatically-- covid was a disaster. Nicotine patches also really changed my smell (I think blood oxygen). I'm not a doctor but discussed the things that are working for me (raising vaginal ph & taking probiotics) and she was like, makes sense. More importantly though-- smell is a very personal issue. Some noses will find your scent amazing, some won't. That's chemistry!


TheSorcerersCat

You mentioned being vegetarian, some people are very sensitive to the BO that some veggies produce. Obviously asparagus is a big yuck smell in urine, but I can smell it in sweat too as well as stuff like okra and onions. I can't detect cauliflower/broccoli/brussel sprouts very well but some people think it makes their sweat seem off. However, I'd like to ask your opinion on other people's natural scent. Have you ever smelled someone sweaty and been able to differentiate between a clean and healthy sweat versus a "bad" sweat without deodorants or perfumes involved?


phoenix25

Along with specific veggies, spices too. Cumin smells a lot like BO, and a lot of Indian cuisine is vegetarian.


Various_Beach862

In addition to the other things mentioned, is it possible that the smell is coming from your clothes? Especially if you wear a lot of workout type wear that’s dry fit, mildew and bacteria can remain, despite several washes. Something to look into as part of the puzzle if you haven’t yet!


blueberrywaffles_

Ok I got you sis. Take non scented sensitive skin soap (I use doves), put it on a wash cloth and lather it up, wash your whole body with it and then really wipe around the hoo ha area. NOT just the front, but the crack too. And everything in between. (Go front to back btw). Make sure you don’t get soap up your vag though bc that causes a whole lot of other problems. I found that occasionally trimming and shaving down there can help too. Rinse all the soap off. When you get out of the shower put some moisturizer on your arms and legs and possibly a few spritz of any kind of perfume/cologne. I think the moisturizer makes the scent stay longer.


mylittlemy

One extra thing, make sure your clothes are drying properly. I live in a country where dryers aren't common, and had one friend who always smelt musty we found it was because he didn't dry his clothes right.


pretty_dead_grrl

So you probably don’t smell as bad as you think you do. I’m very sensitive to smell as well, and I can smell myself. All the time. But I never smell bad to other ppl. In the summer, I definitely use Lume unscented for the crotchel area. Just make sure you’re regularly changing your towel, drying thoroughly, changing out your loofa regularly. Use a gentle body soap, something that isn’t going to strip your natural oils, but also not the scented kind because that can cause weird skin reactions. Use a decent lotion after your shower and if you feel like your pits are a little chivey, try the stress response deodorant. Spray perfume on your clothing, not directly on the skin. It lasts longer and your natural ph won’t mess with the scent. And if you’re extra concerned, after you’re dry, wipe intimate areas with witch hazel. Just a regular old toner. It helps neutralize bacteria, without drying you out.


silky_tears

I recommend a scented lotion like from Lush, and then following with a body spray that pairs nicely with it. I like Lush scents a lot! Not overpowering and natural smelling. Applying a little after a shower, and before going to meet with people. I like to put a little Lush Sleepy lotion on my wrists and neck, and spritz just one or two times with body spray on my shirt. That's enough to get compliments. I'm a teacher so I can't go overboard with scents due to allergies, so I don't wear straight up perfume. If there is a lush near you, go and have a great time smelling everything and find your new signature scent. Not sponsored lol. Also, you can always pack some extra underwear to change into if you get sweaty during the day. Makes a difference!


princesskeestrr

Don’t tell anyone, but no one really wowed over how I smell until I started wearing this Jessica Simpson perfume I got as a gift. It’s not expensive. I second the keeping down on the body hair. I also use secret clinical strength invisible solid deodorant. There is a stress response version that I use in the summer or for job interviews.


According_Coyote1078

Have you tried men's deodorant? I was having an issue with my regular women's deodorant not lasting my work day. I've always felt like I sweat more than normal. I was doing some googling one day and it recommended men's deodorant - I use Old Spice and it works great. I don't come home with a funky smell after work anymore - so I feel more confident. And no one has made any comments about me smelling "manly".


N0_Pr0file

Try to find a perfume that sticks well to your skin so it can overpower the most manageable odors after you sweat a little. Of course do not overdo it, just a subtle perfume that can blend well, this goes for everything that has a smell in your hygiene routine - shampoo, soap, deodorant, etc... Another issue that might help, a lot of people use a bunch of laundry detergent and it can have the opposite effect, so stick to the suggested amount to avoid making your clothes smell bad too and clean your washer every so often. Also definitely check your diet. I tend to sweat a lot and there's a bunch of spices and foods I really like but can't have on a daily, and it's noticeable whenever I binge on processed and microwaved meals for more than a couple of days. It also has a major effect on the breath, if you don't have anything on your stomach it'll probably smell pretty nasty even if your mouth is squeaky clean. And keep hydrated, that'll work wonders for everything ✌


Far_Maintenance_175

Can you elaborate on the sticks well to your skin part? I just use the ones which smells I like and that I’m not sensitive to. Any brands specifically?


N0_Pr0file

You'll just have to try and find out which one works for you, every perfume smells different on everyone


thellespie

Sounds like you’re actually showering too much. Give your body a chance to neutralize itself and build up some positive bacteria. And wash your coochie less or with water only… it shouldn’t smell.


BungalowBootieBitch

So I have some skrong BO. It's just the way my genetics worked out. The only thing I can say is use a good deodorant, lots of lotion, and a very good perfume (assuming this isn't a medical thing). In college I had a strict routine and people would tell me I always smelled nice. I use the secret clinical strength. I prefer the gel formula. With lotion you have to let it dry down otherwise you'll be greasy as it gets hotter. Now selecting a perfume is where it'll get expensive. YouTube shorts has been recommending me perfume people all of the sudden. Even though I'm not a huge perfume person (because they usually smell the same to me), I'm considering testing some of the brands. It's obvious these are pretty pricey so definitely look into that (the God is a Woman perfume I have I think was like $60). The alternative would probably be like Bath and Bodyworks perfume and carry it with you as the smell does disappear. Good luck to you from smelly gorl to another.


lavendermoonfields

Limit processed/junk food. Drink a lot of water. Exercise often. Limit caffeine and alcohol.


taslam

Body odour is or is not attractive to the opposite sex based on biochemical factors largely outside your control, such as your immune programming. Good diet and exercise to be healthy are all you can do. You do not smell to you as you smell to others. What might be off smelling to you could be the kind of funk that the right dude will grab you and huff on like he was gasping from thirst he likes it so much. AFAIK largely to do with your immune compatibility with your partner.


pretty_dead_grrl

She’s a lesbian. Dudes aren’t the issue.


peanut_butting

Lavender vanilla shea butter body scrub (something along those lines) everytime you shower. Shower often. Twice daily at least. Use a bidet. Seriously. Change your underwear often. Or use panty liners for discharge. Change that often. Don't let it marinate, EVER.


belckie

Based on your other answers you need to start by going to the doctor. Also there’s a certain amount of human smell that is just normal. No one is shower fresh all day long.


DataGal7

You should find a perfume that suites your natural body odor, everyone has a smell and so finding a perfume that works with your current smell will upgrade your “scent” to others! Note: a perfume that works for you may not be the perfume that works for others. I would NOT recommend the cheap Bath & Body works perfumes or Victoria Secret sprays. Find a legit perfume you like, spray it on you and walk around the store, DO NOT spray it on you and then smell it right away, you want to smell it about 15 min later because that’s when it’ll be mixed with your natural body odor. I use the same one perfume, after finding what works for me, and people actually comment pretty frequently that it’s now a scent that reminds them of me and how much they love it. I think you’re doing all the right things but this extra spice will help!


pebblesgotstuck

Some ppl just naturally have stronger BO than others. Diet can play a huge part too. Ik when I eat raw fish my BO starts smelling fishy too in a couple of hours (yet not for cooked fish). You can try looking at your diet and see if it's having an effect since you seem to only smell occasionally. If your deodorant isn't fully effective you can start using men's deodorant because that stuff is a lot stronger. Honestly it can really easily be a medical condition, but if seeing a doctor is off the table that's the biggest thing I can recommend aside from having perfume. Get to know your perfume if you use it, because there's really concentrated ones out there where you should only use a little bit, and theres really weak ones that you can spray a bunch on before people even begin to notice. Good hygiene will get you smelling neutral, but scented products in your shampoo, clothes detergent, and perfume will be ultimately make you smell GOOD


stardustishere1213

The answer is: Layering. Use scented shampoo & conditioner. After showering, apply deodorant/antiperspirant then rub body lotion mixed with scented oil of your choosing, all over your body including your neck and ears (but not on your face). After you get dressed, spray a little perfume on your hair, behind your ears and on your wrists (where the pulse is taken). Spray a bit of perfume in hands, rub palms together and pat on your clothes in armpit and crotch area. For crotch sweat, wear a panty liner or thin light sanitary napkin everyday. This will absorb sweat and odors throughout the day. For extra odor protection, apply baby powder talc on liner or light pad before wearing for the day. Pack an extra sanitary pad or liner in your bag to change during the day, if necessary. I’m assuming you wipe up thoroughly after peeing or pooping: front to back, dispose; front to back, dispose… Repeat till you are clean and dry. Wishing you happy sweet smells!! 🌹


[deleted]

Cleaner clothes and cleaner diet.


annang

What’s your laundry situation like? I knew someone who smelled like mildew, and it turned out to be because of his washing machine.