We all know that douching, wearing underwear made with synthetic fabrics and diet can play a role in how our vaginas feel.
But did you know that a healthy pH balance means a happy vagina – which is important for your general wellbeing?
This is because a happy vagina with an optimal pH level can prevent infections and all sorts of discomforts and irritations down there.
A normal vaginal pH level is between 3.8 and 4.5, which is moderately acidic. However, what constitutes a “normal” pH level can vary slightly based on your stage of life.
During your reproductive years (ages 15 to 49), your vaginal pH should be below or equal to 4.5. However before menstruation and after menopause, a healthy pH tends to be higher than 4.5.
You may be wondering why a healthy pH balance is important. An acidic vaginal environment is protective. It creates a barrier that prevents unhealthy bacteria and yeast from multiplying too quickly and causing infection.
A high vaginal pH level — above 4.5 — provides the perfect environment for unhealthy bacteria to grow. Having a high vaginal pH puts you at risk for infections such as Bacterial vaginosis (BV) and Trichomoniasis (trich).
In this week's podcast, Dr Melusi Dlamini chats to us about the many factors that affect a woman's pH balance.
We also discuss the possibility of a woman being allergic to proteins found in semen – a condition called seminal plasma hypersensitivity.
