What you need to know
We know that chemistry in the bedroom is très important. But did you know that the chemistry in your vagina is also very important to your health? They don’t teach that in school now do they? Worry not Mon Cherie - we’ll cover all that!
You’ve probably come across intimate products that claim to be pH balanced. Have you wondered what that means and why it’s important?
First, let’s recap a short chemistry lesson: What pH means? A pH scale measures how acidic or alkaline something is. It ranges from 0 (acidic) to 14 (alkaline/basic).
The optimal vaginal pH level is between 3.8 and 4.5. However, that might change during your menstrual and life cycle. Before menstruation and after the menopause a vaginal pH level of over 4.5 is also considered normal. In other cases, a higher pH level comes with some health issues.
The optimal vaginal pH level is between 3.8 and 4.5
Why the vaginal pH balance matters
The optimal pH level of your vagina acts as a natural protective barrier against unhealthy bacteria and infections. This environment ensures a healthy balance of good and bad bacteria. The acidity keeps the harmful bacteria at bay. In turn, the good bacteria, lactobacilli, keeps the vaginal pH balance at its normal level.
When the pH level falls outside the optimal range you might start experiencing some uncomfortable symptoms or a vaginal infection. The symptoms of a vaginal pH imbalance might include itching, foul odour, burning sensation, unusual discharge, and/or pain during sex or peeing. These symptoms are related to different vaginal infections, such as bacterial vaginosis, yeast infections or trichomoniasis.
If you experience any of the above symptoms, it’s best you speak to your healthcare provider.
a pH balanced vagina is a healthy vagina
How to maintain a healthy pH balance
A pH balanced vagina is a healthy vagina. However, there are many factors in our daily life that can disrupt this balance. Here are some tips that will help you maintain your va-jay-jay’s pH balance.
Practice Safe Sex
Besides for the obvious reasons, semen is alkaline/basic and can disrupt the acidity level in the vagina. You can prevent this by using condoms during intercourse. Safety first. Oui Oui!
Use a pH balanced lube
Lube can definitely enhance your sex life, but the type of lube you use matters a lot. Many lubricants contain irritants which will throw your vagina off balance and make it a ground for bacteria to grow. Make sure to use a pH balanced lube that will closely match your vagina’s optimal pH balance - like our very own Oh La La Love Lube.
Food for fuel
Happy gut, happy life (and happy vagina). Following a balanced and nutritious diet and staying hydrated has a great impact on your vaginal health. Also, certain foods that are rich in probiotics like yogurt, can help increase the level of good bacteria.
Don't douche
Some women use douching to clean the vagina, but vaginas are naturally self-cleansing. Douching only disrupts the natural biome by washing off the good bacteria, which are essential for maintaining an optimal pH balance. It’s also worth being cautious with the trending ‘yoni’ / pussy steams - which require you to squat over hot water and herbs. This leads us to the next point...
Be mindful of your hygiene routine
If you are worried about the odour (even though it’s totally normal for the vagina to smell like a vagina) or refreshing after a particularly sweaty day, better opt for a pH balancing cleansing wipe. Our newly launched Oui Oui pH balanced intimate wipes can help you maintain your hygiene and pH level on the go. And remember what your mother taught you: from the front to the back.
You can easily test your vaginal pH levels with an at-home test. You can find them at the local drugstore/chemist or by searching online. However, if you’re experiencing any of the symptoms mentioned above, it’s always best to contact your doctor.
And be mindful of the products that go into your vagina - keep it pH balanced!
