Balancing Vaginal Ph Is Anything But Basic.
Welcome to the pH scale, which measures how acidic or alkaline (basic) a substance is on a scale of 0 to 14. On this scale, water has a pH of 7. Anything below 7 is considered “acidic,” and anything above 7 is considered alkaline, or “basic.” A healthy vaginal pH is between 3.5 and 4.5—in other words, moderately acidic.1 So…basic? No way!
It’s Just a Number–Why Should I Care?
In short, an increase in vaginal pH can lead to vaginal infections. Certain unfriendly bacteria thrive in higher pH levels, so having a more acidic pH environment is a protective agent.1
So, If “Acidic” Is Normal, What Can Make It “Basic”?
Menstrual blood has a pH of 7.4 and can temporarily increase your vaginal pH.2 Tampons can amplify this effect, because they retain your menstrual flow inside. Additionally, hormonal changes during menstruation and pregnancy are associated with higher pH levels.2
Douching and cleansers can have a harmful effect on your vaginal pH balance as well. Any added chemicals and fragrances can act as irritants to the delicate tissue. Semen has a pH between 7.1 to 8.2, so it’s pretty “basic” too. And lastly, disruption of the vaginal flora can also make your vaginal pH basic.
Is Basic Always Bad?
A healthy woman’s body is able to tolerate temporary elevations in pH levels. Diet, sexual activity, hormonal changes, periods of stress—all of these are natural disruptors. But the amount of time your pH level remains above 4.5 is what you want to reduce.2
A diet high in processed sugar, fruit and alcohol can add alkaline elements.3 Stress produces cortisol and adrenaline, affecting hormonal imbalances.4 Thongs, nylon panty hose and other synthetic fabrics or tight-fitting underwear reduce breathability, produce irritation and encourage the introduction of harmful bacteria into the vaginal environment.5
With all this in mind, maintain a healthy diet low in processed sugar and avoid over-indulging in alcohol. Avoid douching. Opt for 100% cotton underwear and be sure to change your tampon regularly during your period. Remember to always wipe front to back with soft toilet tissue. And wash the exterior vulva only with water and plain, unscented soap—let your vagina’s natural discharge do its work.6
Basically, It’s a Matter of Not Being “Basic.”
AZO Complete Feminine Balance® works naturally with a woman’s body to maintain vaginal health.* It helps promote the colonization of beneficial bacteria with INTELLIFLORA™—a multi-strain probiotic blend clinically proven to work in just 7 days.§ As a once-daily capsule, it’s easy to make a part of your daily regimen. Safe and beneficial for all women, AZO Complete Feminine Balance® will help restore and maintain vaginal pH—getting you back on track to be anything but “basic.”
1 https://www.healthline.com/health/womens-health/vaginal-ph-balance
2 https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/322537#natural-remedies
3 http://www.health.com/sexual-health/best-foods-for-vagina
4 https://hellogiggles.com/lifestyle/emotional-health-vagina
5 https://www.medicaldaily.com/are-thongs-bad-your-health-why-sexy-underwear-may-put-you-risk-infection-260121
6 https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/articles/4976-vulvar-care
