Vaginal pH measures the acidity or alkalinity of the vaginal environment. A healthy vagina is home to acid-producing flora, predominantly from the Lactobacillus genus, that help maintain a mildly acidic pH (3.8-5.0). This acidic environment forms a natural protective barrier against pathogen overgrowth and infections.
An imbalance (dysbiosis) in the vaginal ecosystem can disrupt healthy flora and change acidity levels, leading to irritation, Bacterial Vaginosis (BV), yeast and bacterial infections. Symptoms include itching, burning, odorous discharge, and pain during sex. Vaginal dybiosis lowers immunity, increases the risk of acquiring sexually transmitted infections (STIs), negatively impacts fertility and reproductive health.
Numerous daily life factors can affect vaginal pH, including unprotected sex (semen), estrogen changes during the menstrual cycle, use of hormonal contraceptives, low estrogen levels during breastfeeding or menopause, and during recovery from cancer therapies (chemotherapy, hormonal therapy, radiotherapy). Medications (like antidepressants), intimate washes, detergents, and antibiotics can also change the vaginal environment.
