Postpartum Vaginal Odor & Discharge: What to Expect After Childbirth

Question
My husband and I had intercourse 3weeks after our 4th child was born. I don't have any pain, but I'm worried about a bad odor that I have. It's not any smell I have ever had before. I wash constantly, but after a few hours I notice it. I worry others can smell it, because it is so obvious to me. I have a light tan color discharge also. I'm not sure if I should use a douche yet. I am almost to my 6 weeks. What is this about? Is it possible I have an infection without any pain?

Answer
Do not use a douche- this could be very dangerous given how early you are post-partum and given the possibility of an infection. See your doctor immediately. It definitely sounds like you have an infection. Pain is not always a good indicator of an infection but unusual discharge and smell are.

As a side note, 3 weeks is often too soon to engage in sexual intercourse after a child is born. Doctors recommend waiting until 6 weeks postpartum because there is a chance of embolism as well as infection.

Please let me know if I can help you further or with anything else.

Best wishes,
Helen =)