Why your vagina is naturally acidic and how it keeps you healthy

The vagina's natural acidity is often discussed among women and healthcare professionals alike for its ability to fight off bacteria and fungi that cause infections. But what exactly does this mean? Let's take a look at why this happens and how it works! When it comes to keeping your vaginal microbiome healthy, maintaining an optimal pH level is crucial. The normal range for a healthy vaginal pH level is between 3.8-4.5. This means that the vagina is slightly acidic, which helps keep bad bacteria and fungi from taking over and causing infections. In fact, research suggests that the vaginal microbiome may actually be able to "self-clean" itself due to this natural acidity. So how does the acid work? Well, when bad bacteria or fungi enter the vagina, they can't survive long in such an acidic environment. Think of it like pouring vinegar into a glass of water - you add something acidic to kill off any unwanted invaders. And while many women are familiar with yeast infections, they may not realize that bacterial vaginosis (BV) is another common issue caused by an imbalance in the good and bad bacteria in the vagina. BV is often accompanied by a fishy odor and discharge, and can lead to serious complications if left untreated. That's where douching comes in. Douching is the process of washing out the vagina using fluids other than urine or menstrual blood. While some people believe douching can help cleanse the vagina, it can actually do more harm than good. Douching upsets the natural balance of bacteria in the vagina, making it harder for your body to fight off infection. Plus, it doesn't get rid of all the bacteria - just the ones that have been killed by the acidity. It's important to note that having sex can also affect the pH level of the vagina and cause changes in its microbiome. Semen has a slightly alkaline pH, which means that after sex, the vaginal pH will temporarily become less acidic. This isn't necessarily a problem, but it can be if there are already signs of infection present. So what can you do to maintain healthy vaginal pH? There are several things you can try: 1. Wear breathable underwear and avoid synthetic fabrics like nylon and polyester. 2. Avoid tight-fitting clothing and wear loose, cotton underwear. 3. Take probiotics to support healthy gut flora and maintain a balanced microbiome. 4. Eat a healthy diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein. 5. Limit sugar intake as too much sugar can disrupt the microbiome. 6. Practice good hygiene habits such as washing your genital area with mild soap and water only when necessary. 7. Change tampons and pads frequently during menstruation. 8. Avoid douching! The bottom line is that the vagina's natural acidity helps protect against infections by creating an environment that bad bacteria and fungi cannot survive in. If you experience any symptoms of BV or yeast infection, see your doctor for treatment. They may prescribe antibiotics or antifungal medications to help restore balance to your vaginal microbiome.