This patient support community is for discussions relating to relationships, abstinence, arousal problems, birth control, cohabitation, commitment, communication, couples counseling, desire, sexual technique, and sexually transmitted diseases (STDs).
It could be her hormones - ie the hysterectomy has messed with them and that's throwing things out of whack. It could be a yeast infection or some other type of infection down there that is causing it. It's a very delicate balance in a female's vagina and if one thing is off it can cause a host of issues.
Has she been to a doctor about this? I know she's probably embarassed but if it is an infection that would need to be treated and if it can clear the issue up it would be worth it.
There are also over the counter creams one can use, but if this is a persistant problem I would go to the doctors.
Douching is VERY bad for you, if anything this will cause odour as it will wash interupt normal PH balance, etc. You do not need to was semen away, it naturally comes out soon after sex. I have never douched, my partner ejaculates inside of me and I've NEVER had an odour problem.
I agree with becks 715 - an infection sounds likely, either way a trip to the doctor is needed - tell her not to be embarrased - doctors have seen it all - and much worse than that! before.
Best of luck, hang in there, this can't be easy for her to deal with so be supportive :)