A healthy vagina is acidic, which limits the growth of harmful bacteria. During intercourse, the pH level rises to make it easier for sperm to swim through the vulva.
The best way to test your pH is by using a strip that you can buy over-the-counter at a pharmacy or online. However, you should always read the instructions.
Vaginal lubricants
A healthy vaginal ecosystem has a delicate pH balance, which can get thrown off during certain hormone fluctuations, such as during the menstrual cycle or around the time of menopause. If this balance is thrown off, it can lead to infections like bacterial vaginosis.
Women can use personal lubricants to make intercourse more comfortable and pleasurable. However, not all lubricants are created equal. The wrong type of lubricant can disrupt the body’s natural pH balance and cause irritation and discomfort during intercourse.
To avoid this, make sure the lubricant you choose is labeled as “pH balanced” or as a formula that is designed for vaginal use. A pH of 4.0 to 4.5 is optimal for the vagina. Similarly, a pH of 7.0 or more is the most dangerous for the rectum.
Aside from selecting the right lubricant, it’s also important to avoid certain lubricants altogether if you’re prone to yeast infections or other vulva issues. For example, people prone to yeast infections should avoid glycerin-based water-based lubricants, as these can kill the good bacteria and contribute to an infection. Instead, opt for a longer-lasting, silicone-based lube.
Medications
Vaginal pH balance is critical to good gynecological health. Probiotics, such as Lactobacillus acidophilus, which occurs naturally in the vagina, can help maintain a healthy pH level. Probiotics can also be found in vaginal health vitamins and suppositories, which can be inserted directly into the vulva. However, it’s important to consult a doctor before introducing any supplements into your diet.
Medications can affect vaginal pH levels by killing bacteria and changing the environment, making it less acidic. This can cause infections such as bacterial vaginosis, which has a fishy odor and thick grey-like discharge, or yeast, which has a strong odor and a chunky cottage cheese consistency.
The best way to keep your vaginal ph balanced is by using barrier methods of protection, avoiding douching, and practicing regular sex with a partner who uses condoms. Additionally, avoiding unprotected sex will prevent semen from disrupting the balance of the acidic and alkaline vaginal fluid. It’s also important to visit an OB-GYN for routine exams. This will help you detect any potential infection or other health issues, such as a cyst or an ovarian tumor.
Semen
Semen is a greyish white bodily fluid that contains sperm cells, according to Nemours Children’s Health. It is released by the gonads during sexual activity. The sperm cells travel through the seminal fluid to reach the egg and fertilize it to create an embryo.
Semen can alter vaginal pH levels because it is alkaline in nature. The rise in pH level may help protect the sperm as they swim through the fluid towards the egg. The increase in pH level may also contribute to infections like bacterial vaginosis and yeast. These infections can be identified by a fishy odor and changes in discharge.
Semen leakage may occur during sex or just before and after ejaculation. This leakage is known as precum. It is not a cause for concern and should not be considered as an indication of pregnancy. Using condoms during sex can prevent the alkaline semen from disrupting the pH balance in the vagina. Doing this can also reduce the risk of STDs and other health complications. Drinking plenty of water, avoiding douching and taking probiotics can keep bacteria levels balanced and the pH level in the vagina in check.
Clothing
It’s possible for vaginal odor to change due to the use of tampons (which are acidic) or from menstrual blood, which is more alkaline. The pH balance of the vagina can also change when a woman has a yeast infection, bacterial vaginosis or infections of the vulva. These infections can be recognized by their fishy odor or thick white discharge.
Many women experience changes in their vaginal pH throughout their lives. This is normal, but it’s important to keep the pH balanced as best you can for infection prevention, healthy pregnancies and hormonal changes. To help with this, avoiding douching and unprotected sex is very important, as well as changing wet swimwear and tight clothing quickly, and wearing looser pants or cotton underwear that allow for air flow and discourage a build-up of bacteria. A daily probiotic or supplement and proper hygiene are also essential to maintaining a healthy pH.
Hormones
The pH scale measures how acidic or basic a substance is. A pH value of 7 indicates neutrality, while lower values indicate acidity and higher ones alkalinity. A person’s vaginal pH usually falls within the range of 3.8 to 4.5. Healthy bacteria in the vulva help maintain this balance. However, external factors like hormones and internal issues can throw off the balance.
For example, menstruation and certain medications can change a woman’s vaginal pH level. Some antibiotics increase the level of acid in the vagina, while birth control pills may do the same for some people. Hormone changes during perimenopause and menopause can also cause the pH to increase.
Taking steps to keep the pH levels normal is easy. Avoiding unprotected sex and using barrier protection methods are the best ways to keep the vaginal flora balanced. It is also helpful to wear breathable cotton underwear and change tampons or pads every four to eight hours. It is not recommended to douche because harsh soaps can wash away the “good” bacteria that helps maintain a normal ph. In addition, it is best to avoid scented products and to not use soap inside the vulva area.
