HomeAnswersObstetrics and Gynecologymenstrual irregularity

What could cause an irregular menstrual cycle and foul odor from the vagina?

This Premium Q&A, reviewed and published, features a real conversation between an iCliniq user and a physician.

Patient's Query

Hi doctor,

I do not have a normal menstrual cycle since the beginning. My period comes every three months and sometimes every two months. Also when I was in grade four my classmate said I smell bad. Then I and my mom went to the hospital and they only took my urine and said it was normal. Now I am 18 years old and have grown up. I am aware of what other people think of me and did some searching about my case. I tried using a feminine wash and the smell would go away then after four to five days it would come back again. So I think maybe there is an infection in my vagina.

Please help.

Thank you.

Answered by Dr. Sanap Sneha Umrao

Education:

MBBS

Professional Bio:

Dr. Sanap Sneha Umrao is a dedicated Obstetrician and Gynecologist committed to women’s health and well-being. She specializes in high-risk pregnancies, infertility management, menstrual disorders, and minimally invasive gynecologic procedures. With a compassionate approach and advanced clinical expertise, Dr. Umrao provides personalized care to support women through every stage of life — from adolescence to motherhood and beyond.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

According to your description, there are two different things, one is about irregular periods and the second is about the smell. These days PCOS (polycystic ovary syndrome) is very common, especially in the young population. Irregular periods, scanty menses, acne, and excessive weight gain are commonly seen in PCOS (polycystic ovary syndrome). Also in thyroid abnormality delayed periods can occur.

So to rule out this you should do an ultrasonography abdomen, pelvis scan, and thyroid profile. So accordingly we can start proper treatment. There could be an infection.

Is there any discharge?

How is the color, is it continuous or intermittent?

We should take a proper antibiotic course to cure this infection. To prevent such subsequent infections, keep that area clean and dry, change undergarments two times a day, and wash your genital with soft cleansers.

Thank you.

Medically reviewed by iCliniq medical review team
Published At May 29, 2023
Reviewed At May 8, 2026

Education:

MBBS

Professional Bio:

Dr. Sanap Sneha Umrao is a dedicated Obstetrician and Gynecologist committed to women’s health and well-being. She specializes in high-risk pregnancies, infertility management, menstrual disorders, and minimally invasive gynecologic procedures. With a compassionate approach and advanced clinical expertise, Dr. Umrao provides personalized care to support women through every stage of life — from adolescence to motherhood and beyond.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

Same symptoms don't mean you have the same problem. Consult a doctor now!

Education:

MBBS

Professional Bio:

Dr. Sanap Sneha Umrao is a dedicated Obstetrician and Gynecologist committed to women’s health and well-being. She specializes in high-risk pregnancies, infertility management, menstrual disorders, and minimally invasive gynecologic procedures. With a compassionate approach and advanced clinical expertise, Dr. Umrao provides personalized care to support women through every stage of life — from adolescence to motherhood and beyond.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

Listen to related tracks in our music library
Comprehensive Second Opinion

Read answers about:

menstrual irregularitydelayed period

Ask your health query to a doctor online

*guaranteed answer within 4 hours

Disclaimer: No content published on this website is intended to be a substitute for professional medical diagnosis, advice or treatment by a trained physician. Seek advice from your physician or other qualified healthcare providers with questions you may have regarding your symptoms and medical condition for a complete medical diagnosis. Do not delay or disregard seeking professional medical advice because of something you have read on this website. Read our Editorial Process to know how we create content for health articles and queries.