When it comes to reproductive health, maintaining the right balance of vaginal pH is super important. But what happens when your vaginal pH gets out of whack? 

Your vaginal pH level affects everything from the types of bacteria that live in your vaginal microbiome to how likely you are to get infections. 

Knowing how to recognize when your pH levels are unbalanced can help you stay on top of your vaginal health and take action when needed. Below, we dive into the basics of vaginal pH, why it’s so important for your health, and how to recognize the most common symptoms of unbalanced pH levels.

What is vaginal pH?

The pH scale measures how acidic or alkaline something is, ranging from 0 to 14, with 7 being neutral. Anything below 7 is acidic, and anything above is alkaline. 

From your bloodstream to your digestive system, each part of your body has its unique pH balance, crucial for promoting homeostasis. The vagina is no exception.

A healthy vaginal pH is typically lower than other parts of the body, falling between 3.8 and 4.5. For a bit of perspective, battery acid is around 1, and lemon juice is about 3.

A healthy pH balance is crucial for maintaining the balance of microbes in the vagina. The vagina is usually dominated by Lactobacilli, healthy bacteria that keep the pH low. These bacteria produce lactic acid to create a moderately acidic environment that protects against infections and maintains the health of the vaginal mucosa.

Unbalanced vaginal pH levels are associated with vaginal infections, including: 

Symptoms of unbalanced pH levels

Spotting an imbalance early can help you address issues before they get worse. Below are four symptoms that might indicate your vaginal pH is off-kilter.

Vaginal odor

It’s normal for your vagina to have a mild smell, but significant changes can be a red flag. A strong, foul, or fishy odor could indicate an infection like bacterial vaginosis, trichomoniasis, or aerobic vaginitis. If you notice a sudden, unpleasant smell, see your healthcare provider. 

Unusual vaginal discharge

Vaginal discharge is normal, but changes in color, consistency, smell, or amount can indicate an imbalance. Healthy discharge is usually clear to milky white with a mild “musky” odor. Abnormal discharge might be thick and white like cottage cheese or thin and watery with a grayish or greenish tint. If you notice anything unusual, it’s a good idea to see your healthcare provider to rule out infections.

Vaginal irritation

Itching and irritation around the vagina and vulva can be signs of a pH imbalance. This can be especially uncomfortable and might indicate a yeast infection or STI. If you’re feeling itchy, it’s best to check in with your healthcare provider.

A burning sensation

A burning feeling during sex, when peeing, or inserting a tampon could indicate a pH issue. This discomfort might be caused by bacterial or yeast overgrowth. Pain during these activities isn’t normal, so don’t hesitate to consult a healthcare provider.

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What can affect your vaginal pH?

Several factors can disrupt your vaginal pH, including:

  • Your menstrual cycle: Menstrual blood is slightly alkaline, which can temporarily raise the vaginal pH.
  • Unprotected sex: Semen is alkaline and can alter vaginal pH, increasing infection risk. Plus, sex can introduce harmful bacteria into the vagina.
  • Douching: This can strip away beneficial bacteria, upsetting the pH balance and raising infection risk. Remember, your vagina is self-cleaning!
  • Antibiotic use: While antibiotics target harmful bacteria, they can also wipe out the good bacteria needed to maintain acidity.
  • Hormone deficiency: Lower estrogen levels during perimenopause, menopause, breastfeeding, and cancer therapy can increase vaginal pH. 

How to support your vaginal pH

Maintaining a healthy vaginal pH is key to preventing infections and promoting overall vaginal health. Here are some tips to restore balance, promote a healthy vaginal environment, and reduce your risk of developing infections: 

  • Don’t douche: Douching can wash away good bacteria and upset the natural balance in your vagina, putting you at higher risk of infections like bacterial vaginosis.
  • Practice safe sex: Use barrier methods such as condoms and dental dams, and clean sex toys after each use.
  • Get tested: Get screened for sexually transmitted infections (STIs) at least once a year, or more often if you have multiple sex partners. Many STIs are asymptomatic, so you may have one and not know.
  • Practice good hygiene: Wipe front to back when you go to the bathroom and change your period products within the recommended time frame.
  • Take a vaginal microbiome test: Monitor your vaginal microbiome with Evvy’s vaginal health test.

FAQ

How do I know if my pH is unbalanced?

Look out for signs like unusual changes in vaginal discharge — whether in color, consistency, or odor. Persistent itching, redness, or discomfort around the vaginal area could also indicate pH imbalance, along with a sudden strong or unpleasant odor. Additionally, feeling a burning sensation during urination, sex, or tampon insertion may be a sign that your pH levels are off. If you notice any of these symptoms, it's a good idea to consult with your healthcare provider for advice and appropriate treatment options to restore vaginal health.

How do I get my pH balance back to normal?

There are several steps you can take to restore your vaginal pH balance. First, see your healthcare provider to treat any underlying infections. They may recommend medications like antibiotics or antifungals to treat underlying infections and restore optimal pH balance. To keep things in check, avoid using harsh soaps or douches, as these can disrupt the natural pH levels. Practice safe sex using condoms to prevent introducing new pathogens into the vagina.

What throws off a woman’s pH balance?

Several things can mess with your vaginal pH balance. For instance, during your period, menstrual blood (which is slightly alkaline) can temporarily bump up pH levels. Hormonal shifts — like those during pregnancy or menopause — can also play a role in pH changes. Sexual activity and douching can also throw vaginal pH off its balance.