What is Vaginal pH Balance?

Vaginal pH balance refers to the level of acidity or alkalinity within the vagina. The pH scale ranges from 0 to 14, with lower numbers indicating acidity and higher numbers indicating alkalinity. A healthy vaginal pH typically falls between 3.5 to 4.5, creating a slightly acidic environment.

What Should Your Vaginal pH Be?

A normal vaginal pH range of 3.5 to 4.5 is important for maintaining good vaginal health. At this optimum pH level, your vagina contains a balance of necessary bacteria and some yeast cells. However, this delicate balance can be easily disturbed.

What Does pH Mean for a Woman?

Your vaginal pH is a key indication of your overall vaginal health, playing a significant role in maintaining bodily balance. When feminine pH is unbalanced, odor-causing microorganisms can flourish. Studies show that vaginal issues often occur when vaginal pH is unbalanced. By maintaining a healthy vaginal pH, you can help reduce your risk of vaginal odor and discomfort.

What Causes Unbalanced Vaginal pH?

Several factors can impact your vaginal pH, including existing health conditions, lifestyle choices. Here are some things that could throw off your vaginal pH balance:

• Menstrual cycle: Your vaginal pH may fluctuate depending on your menstrual cycle phase, menopause status, or pregnancy.
• Lubricants: During sexual activity, lubricants are often used to reduce dryness in the vaginal area. However, some lubricants can have a pH higher than 4.5, which can disrupt the balance of healthy bacteria and make infections more likely.
• Medication: Antibiotics can elevate vaginal pH by killing off both good and bad bacteria.

How to Tell if Your pH Balance is Off

An unbalanced vaginal pH level can go along with bacterial infections and other health issues. Although not always symptomatic, common signs of an infection can indicate a disrupted vaginal pH balance. These signs include:

• Strong, fish-like smell coming from the vagina
• Grey, green, or foamy vaginal discharge
• Itching around the vaginal area
• Burning sensation while urinating
• Swelling and irritation around the vagina
• Pain or burning feeling in the vagina during sexual intercourse

These symptoms are typical of common infections such as bacterial vaginosis or yeast infections. If you have symptoms of a vaginal infection, contact your healthcare provider.