How To Balance pH In The Body For A Healthy Vagina

When it comes to vaginal tissue, maintaining an optimal pH is important for preventing infections, discomfort, and unpleasant smells. So let's dive into what a healthy vaginal pH is and what can mess with it.

When it comes to vaginal health, we want a more acidic pH. A normal vaginal pH is between 3.8 and 4.51. If your vaginal pH is too high, your risk of getting a vaginal infection or imbalance increases, like BV (bacterial vaginosis) and yeast infections, which can lead to an unpleasant smell, discharge, and uncomfortable itching.

The most important group of healthful bacteria in our vaginal area is the Lactobacillus species. The Lactobacillus bacteria in the vaginal area secrete lactic acid and hydrogen peroxide, which create a more acidic pH. As a result, a deficiency of Lactobacillus in the vaginal area leads to an increase in vaginal pH and an increase in the risk of vaginal infections4.

Avoid unnecessary antibiotics. When you take antibiotics for anything, like a sinus infection, for example, it, unfortunately, kills off some of those healthful Lactobacillus species in your vaginal area, too. This results in a higher pH and increased risk for overgrowth of yeast and unhealthful bacteria in your vaginal area. While antibiotics are important, in some cases, they are actually unnecessary. Many upper respiratory infections, including sinus infections, are viral, and your body can naturally fight them off with proper rest and hydration. Check with your doctor and make sure an antibiotic is necessary before you take one. 

Probably the best lubricant to use at this time, that has not been shown to damage the good bacteria in the vaginal area, is olive oil. But this can damage latex condoms, so best to avoid when using condoms to prevent sexually transmitted diseases or pregnancy. 

What does this mean? Whole foods, lots of healthy vegetables, fruits, beans, ground flaxseeds, and nuts all can provide the food to help the good healthy bacteria in the body grow. Fermented foods that are rich in Lactobacillus are also helpful. These include unsweetened yogurt, sauerkraut, kimchi, and miso. In addition, you want to avoid a high-sugar diet that can feed the wrong yeast and bacteria in your body. 

I often prescribe probiotics for my patients when they have signs of an imbalanced vaginal microbiome, such as frequent vaginal bacterial or yeast infections. Look for one that is rich in Lactobacillus. I often recommend formulations that contain Lactobacillus reuteri and Lactobacillus rhamnosus. These strains of good bacteria have been shown to support vaginal health6. The research in this area is young, and I am sure we will learn even more about how to replenish the healthy microbes in the future.