Should a fistula smell???

[Bryonyboo]

I have just had a recto vaginal and peri anal fisula partially laid open with setons remaining in the bottom of them. Its one week post surgery and I am in a lot of pain, but to be expected, the wounds are deep and they are discharging all the time. But the most unpleasant thing is the smell, obviously after a bowel motion it takes me several attempts to get properly clean, including a bath or two, but even when i am clean, there is sweet sort of sickly smell from the pus. Is this normal??? Pretty sure its not infected or anything.
God its so embarassing having to ask these questions, so not ladylike!!!

 

[Absentminded]

I don't have the same type of fistula as you, I have an abdominal one (where my surgical wound from my stoma reversal is) but I have noticed that the output from mine does smell a bit not nice.
Hopefully someone with a bit more knowledge will come along soon.
I hope the pain starts to ease soon and things start moving in the right direction.

 

[Sailorluna]

I have had that same musty sweet smell. Usually when it is draining yellow green stuff.
It was not bad enough to worry me but others have commented on it and used things like a dryer sheets in the back pocket to cover the smell.

 

[If*]

Hi, super sorry your are having to deal with this. Mine have been a different location but I kinda think they are all a bit similar with cleaning. I do know how embarrassing this can be (hug)
I noticed you mentioned baths to get clean. Just wanted to mention that sitz baths are really nice for in between bathing. Warm water with epsom salt can sooth the area. Once healed a little further aloe added also to the water can help sooth further. (Be sure to clean your sitz bath after each use.) I would not use baby or adult wipes since most contain alcohol. Also do you have a peri bottle? If not ask for one. They can be filled with warm water for gentle cleaning. (kinda a poor mans bitet) Tissue can also irritate so best to buy some cotton washcloths to use to pat the area dry gently after cleaning. Ask your Dr. if the above is OK for you to try.
Hang in there.

 

[Bryonyboo]

Oooh, I had never heard of a peri bottle but have just ordered one, what a good idea!
I'm sure the smell is not that bad, I am just particularly sensitive to smells!!! and I'm glad it sounds normal. I shall just have to keep clean as possible in the meantime, its just so horrible dealing with it, luckily I have no partner to worry about!!! Thanks for the support everyone x x