Vaginal PH is an important factor in a women’s vaginal health. Any changes to it can affect the vagina and its functioning. Therefore, it is important to maintain a healthy vaginal PH to protect the vagina from bacteria and other infections.
Healthy levels of vaginal PH are affected by various environmental and natural factors. When the Ph is imbalanced, it can lead to discomfort, itching, burning sensation, odor, and infections.
This article explains eight effective and best strategies to maintain a normal vaginal PH.
Maintaining PH balance is not only essential to prevent discomfort or itching sensation. However, it is also important to keep the overall health of the vagina. We will discuss different methods, from probiotics to cotton underwear, to make you understand “How you can maintain a healthy vaginal PH balance?”
These are some of the ways you can keep your vaginal pH balanced.
Probiotics: Probiotics are part of the normal flora in the body, including the vagina. Harmful bacteria or yeast can cause infection when they are out of balance.
Garlic: Garlic is known to have antibacterial and antifungal properties. Some studies show that it can help fight off vaginal infections. When eaten as a part of a healthy diet, garlic is generally safe.
Apple Cider Vinegar: Many people add apple cider vinegar to their health routine for its antibacterial and antifungal effects. You can drink diluted apple cider vinegar or take it as a supplement.
Manage Stress: Stress increases cortisol, which disrupts the acid-base balance in the vagina. Some stressors are beyond or control, so managing them is the next best choice. Coping techniques include regular exercise, a healthy diet, getting enough sleep, deep breathing, practicing enjoyable hobbies or activities, avoiding smoking, no drug abuse, or limiting or no alcohol.
Eat Less Sugar: Increased sugar in the body can lead to high pH Levels or fuel yeast growth. Avoid or limit excess sugar in foods and drinks.
Avoid Douching: Douching means cleaning the inside of the vagina with water or a solution. Women often think they are supposed to douche. However, most healthcare providers do not recommend it because it can cause pH imbalances and disrupt normal flora.
Wear Breathable Cotton Underwear: Synthetic fabrics trap sweat and moisture, which allows bacteria and yeast to grow. Wearing breathable cotton underwear provides airflow.
Protection During Sex: Semen has a pH level between 7.1 and 8. Having unprotected sex briefly increases the pH of the vagina. An increased pH is helpful when trying to conceive a baby because it helps protect the sperm. Barriers such as condoms protect the vagina from exposure to the higher pH of semen.
Read More: 7 Things to Do After Sex to Keep Your Vagina Happy
