Vaginal pH

An unbalanced vaginal pH can cause a host of problems, from odor to itching and discharge. The vagina has an optimal pH, like every organ in the body. According to Kyle Graham, M.D., a board-certified OBGYN at Obstetrics and Gynecology of San Jose, part of Pediatrix® Medical Group, a normal vaginal pH is acidic, allowing the healthy vaginal bacteria that ward off infections and keep everything properly functioning to grow and thrive. “Typically, vaginal pH is self-regulatory,” said Dr. Graham. “However, there are certain things that can throw off or destabilize the pH.” One of them is douching and the use of feminine products. “It’s very important to look at the ingredients when purchasing feminine hygiene products,” said Dr. Graham. Chemicals, fragrance and water-based products can all disrupt pH.

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