The Time of Month That It Is

A part of the reason why I wrote the article, “Vaginal Discharge. Arousal Fluid. Cervical Mucus. What's The Difference?” earlier this year is because it’s important to know that all of the fluid that comes out of your vagina isn’t automatically or necessarily the same thing. Know what else? Due to hormonal shifts, the time of the month that you are in can affect the amount, texture and even taste of these things which is something that you and your partner must always stay aware of. ​

For instance, just like stress can alter the regularity of your periods and even how wet or dry your vagina is, it can also impact how your arousal fluid looks, feels and even tastes. Typically, not drastically so yet enough for a very observant partner to potentially take note of.

Your pH Balance Is Off

When you get a chance, do me a favor and check out “Sis, This Is How To Keep Your Vagina's pH Balanced.” There are several reasons why it’s a good idea to maintain a healthy pH balance; however, as it relates to this topic, in particular, you’ve got to remember that your pH is all about how acidic or alkaline your vagina is. And so, if your pH is a bit off-balance and it’s too acidic, it can cause your vagina to taste more metallic instead of sour (sour is pretty normal).

Or, if it’s too alkaline, it can have a fishy smell and aftertaste (which usually means that you’ve got some sort of infection going on).

You’re Dehydrated

If your partner tells you that everything smells and tastes stronger or that he notices that you are saltier than usual, you very well could be dehydrated. It’s important to keep in mind that although your vagina is self-cleaning, it needs water in order to function properly. Not only that but, the more water that you consume, the more you are able to flush out toxins and bacteria — and a healthy and well-hydrated vagina is a tastier one!

You’re Eating Sulfur-Strong Foods

If you check out the article, “Check Out These 10 Ways To Make Your Vagina Smell So Much Better,” something that I mention is how sulfur-enriched foods have a way of impacting how your urine and vagina secretions smell and, to a certain extent, even taste. Although the scent is temporary, this is a good thing to keep in mind if you plan on getting some oral action in after a dinner date. Oh, and for the record, some foods that are full of sulfur include onions, garlic, cabbage, broccoli and asparagus.

The Medications That You’re Taking

Something else that can alter the taste, smell or texture of your vagina is certain types of medications. Antibiotics and steroids can make you more susceptible to yeast infections (which could cause your discharge to taste a bit like sour milk). Antidepressants, diuretics and antihistamines can reduce your natural lubrication (which can make whatever you have going on below seem “on concentrate”). So, before getting a prescription, ask your doctor what vaginal/sexual side effects you may have and what you can do about them, if that is indeed in the case.​

Your Period Isn’t Completely Over

Whether it’s stress, hormones or you’re dealing with perimenopause — sometimes periods don’t come or leave when we want or expect them to and yes, that can result in a bit of blood popping up in the most inopportune times. And so, if your partner says that you smell or taste a little like a copper penny, that could be because of blood. Nothing to really fret about, though. Period blood isn’t dangerous or anything — although it can be an indicator of underlying health issues. You can read more about that here.​

You’ve Overdoing Caffeine (Just a Bit)

If your vagina tastes kind of bitter, it could be because you’re enjoying a bit too much java. Yep, word on the street is things like caffeine, smoking and even consuming too many highly-processed foods can make your vagina more acidic and that can leave a really bitter taste in his mouth. Pun intended…and not intended at the same time.

You Need to Consume More Greek Yogurt

If you were to read ​“10 Ways To Have An 'Extra Sweet' Vagina,” something that you would notice is the big shout-out that I gave to kefir which is a fermented milk that is high in probiotics. Yeah, probiotics are essential when it comes to maintaining optimal vaginal health because it puts “good bacteria” into your vagina — and that can help to keep your pH levels right where they need to be, so that your vagina tastes as it should.

No, not like a hot fudge sundae (even cups of pineapples a day won’t achieve that) but again, a combination of somewhat sour, slightly sweet with a touch of bitter is more th​an natural and okay.

Bon Appetit! Tell him that I said it. #wink

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