The vagina is the organ that balances its pH on its own due to the presence of bacteria. Changes in the vaginal pH can cause bacterial overgrowth and cause discomfiting symptoms. You can take these 8 Ways to Naturally Balance Your Vaginal pH.
Highlights:
- Vaginal pH is slightly acidic (3.8-5.0 pH) which is perfect for the survival of good bacteria.
- One should not use fragrant products, cleaning products, or douching to clean their vagina.
- Practicing healthy habits can help in balancing vaginal pH.
- You can also use garlic or boric acid supplements to maintain a healthy vaginal pH.
- Take special care of your personal hygiene, especially your undergarments.
The normal vaginal pH ranges from 3.8-5.0 which is slightly acidic. A low vaginal pH value (moderately acidic) protects the vaginal mucosa from pathogenic organisms.
The normal and healthy bacteria present in the vagina survive when the pH level is moderately acidic. The vaginal discharge and normal flore uphold the vagina infection-free and clean.
Many women experience an imbalance in vaginal pH at least once in their life. An imbalance in vaginal pH can result in symptoms including itching, vaginal odor, and burning sensation while urinating, etc.
But you don’t have to worry or be embarrassed about these symptoms. Because you can balance vaginal pH naturally with just a little understanding.
In this blog post, we will tell you how to balance vaginal pH naturally in simple and easy ways.
However, if you’ve more intense symptoms, you should consult the best gynecologist in Pakistan. The doctor may prescribe some diagnostic tests before concluding anything.
How to Balance Vaginal pH Naturally?
If you suspect that your vagina is showing some odd symptoms that are not near normal, then there are some natural steps to balance your vaginal pH.
However, if your symptoms are way more than a little odd, then consult the best doctor for vaginal issues in Pakistan.
Following are the 8 simple ways to balance vaginal pH naturally:
1. Make Probiotics a Part of Your Routine
Probiotics are the good bacteria that keep your gut healthy. Similarly, the “good” bacteria are also abundantly present in a healthy vagina.
The good or beneficial bacteria are known as Lactobacilli. These bacteria produce lactic acid which creates an acidic environment that prevents the growth of harmful bacteria. Moreover, they also fight off infections and keep the vaginal pH balanced.
Lactobacilli are found in many fermented foods and also in several probiotic supplements.
One way to keep probiotics at healthy levels is to consume a balanced diet that is rich in fiber. Probiotics are naturally present in fermented foods including:
- Pickles
- Yogurt
- Kefir (Fermented Dairy Milk)
- Buttermilk
- Kombucha (Fermented Tea)
- Miso Soup
- Fermented Sauerkraut
- Sourdough Bread
Moreover, you can take Lactobacilli in other ways such as intravaginally, through foods, or orally as probiotic supplements.
Also, Read 5 Best Foods To Supercharge Your Gut Health
One thing should be taken into notice that the consumption of probiotics can increase the Lactobacilli in the vagina; however, it does not totally inhibit bad bacterial growth.
Studies have reported that women susceptible to Bacterial vaginosis infections who started consuming probiotics daily experienced quite fewer recurring infections within 60 days.
2. Boric Acid Supplements
Boric acid is a white, crystalline solid that has been used for centuries to upkeep the vaginal pH levels and treat bacterial vaginosis.
Boric acid has antifungal and antiseptic properties which have been used to treat female reproductive issues for over 100 years.
It is a water-soluble white crystalline form that consists of hydrogen, oxygen, and boron. It means it has the “potential hydrogen” which can be used to naturally balance the vaginal pH levels.
Boric acid supplements are easy to use, affordable, accessible, and are developed to work quickly to soothe irritation and balance the vaginal microflora.
However, it is crucial to note that boric acid supplements should not be used orally or by pregnant women. Boric acid is toxic when ingested orally; therefore, its oral use is highly prohibited.
You should use boric acid supplements by consulting a professional gynecologist.
3. Underwear Management
You may find it shocking but your underwear determines the health of your vagina. Just like tight-fitting pants or damp clothing, the underwear you use can affect the health of the vagina.
Synthetic fabrics trap moisture and sweat that promotes yeast and bacterial growth.
To keep your vaginal health up to the mark and maintain the pH of the vagina, you should act upon the following measures:
- Wear underwear made of breathable, natural, absorbent fabric e.g., organic cotton
- Change underwear after sweating, swimming, or if you have a lot of moisture buildup
- Wash underwear with hypoallergenic detergent instead of chemical detergents
- Sleep by removing underwear at night to prevent moisture buildup which can promote the growth of bad bacteria
By following the above-mentioned instructions, you can maintain a balanced vaginal pH naturally. Moreover, it will also help in reducing disruptions to the natural vaginal pH.
These precautionary measures not only balance natural vaginal pH but also prevent certain urinary tract infections (UTIs).
4. Give up on Smoking
Many studies have proved that smoking cigarettes incredibly lower the natural estrogen production in females. Estrogen is a female hormone that is responsible for developing female sexual characteristics.
The lowering in the estrogen levels indicates fewer “good” or “beneficial” bacteria in the vagina. The imbalance in vaginal pH can cause numerous vaginal infections such as bacterial vaginosis (BV).
Moreover, as per the research, people who smoke are more prone to bacterial vaginosis.
In another study, it was seen that non-smokers have a large proportion of Lactobacillus in the vaginal flora as compared to smokers.
It is important to note that Lactobacillus is crucial to maintaining the vaginal health.
If you want to cut back on the number of cigarettes you smoke or want to completely quit smoking, then you can go for several medications and therapies available.
There are many nicotine substitutes and therapies that can aid you in quitting smoking.
Also, Read 11 Helpful Ways to Quit Smoking
You can also talk to a professional drug addiction specialist in Pakistan to set up a plan that works for you.
5. Reduce Stress Levels
Stress and depression not only affect the vaginal health but also affect the overall physical and mental health.
There are many studies conducted that show that there is a connection between spikes in cortisol (stress hormone) and bacterial vaginosis (BV).
Stress elevates cortisol levels which causes disruption in the acid-base balance in the vagina. Many studies show that when the body is in a stressful situation, it produces high levels of cortisone and adrenaline. This fight-or-flight response to stress also results in a slowing down of the immune system.
Stressors are beyond our control but they can be managed to upkeep the daily life activities. Practicing anti-stressing habits can help prevent the stress hormones from negatively affecting health.
Some of the destressing activities that you can practice are as follows:
- Exercise
Physical activities including exercise can help increase the production of endorphins (feel-good neurotransmitters). Exercise can make you feel good about your body and mind as well.
You can practice some activities like tai chi, cycling, walking, jogging, swimming, etc.
- Yoga
Yoga is one of the best practices that can help in reducing stress. Many different types of yoga can be opted to reduce the stress levels. Moreover, you can join a yoga group which can help in building a social community as well.
- Breathing Exercises
Practicing simple breathing exercises and deep breathing can greatly help in reducing stress. You just have to find a quiet and peaceful place to breathe slowly and deeply. Breathe through your nose and out through the mouth for 5 minutes. It can help in oxygenating the blood, clearing the mind, and centering the body.
- Doing Your Hobby or Favorite Activity
Instead of focusing on the stressor, you should try out your hobbies or any favorite activity. You can play a game, read a book, do a puzzle, watch a show, spend time with friends or family, or listen to music.
- Consuming Healthy Diet
You may find it surprising but consuming a healthy diet can help in reducing stress levels. There are some foods such as avocado, fish, berries, etc.
Moreover, you should get enough sleep, drink plenty of water, avoid smoking, limit alcohol, etc to reduce stress levels.
6. Consume Garlic
Garlic is enriched with antioxidants, antibacterial, and antifungal properties. Moreover, it also has a bacteria-fighting compound known as allicin.
Some studies prove that it can help in fighting off vaginal infections.
Garlic is safe to eat as a part of a healthy diet. Moreover, you can also use garlic supplements or tablets to treat the symptoms of bacterial vaginosis BV or vaginal yeast infection.
As per a study conducted in 2014 on 120 women, garlic tablets were seen as effective as oral antibiotics in treating vaginal yeast infection or BV symptoms.
The participants (120 women) in the study consumed 500-milligram garlic tablets two times a day with a 12-hour difference for 7 consecutive days.
However, it should be taken into account that garlic can have digestive side effects. People suffering from bleeding disorders or are consuming blood-thinning medicines should not take garlic.
You should consult the best general physician in Pakistan before using garlic supplements or tablets if you have any medical condition.
Moreover, also note that it is best not to use garlic directly in or around the vagina.
7. Practice Safe Sex
Semen is alkaline (7.1-8.0 pH) in nature and can disrupt the natural acidic environment of the vagina during intercourse.
Practicing unprotected intercourse can increase the pH levels of the vagina.
A study conducted in 2011 showed that increased exposure to semen can increase the risk of BV due to the alkalizing effect of the semen on the vagina.
An increase in pH level is beneficial when trying to conceive a baby because it protects the sperm.
However, in normal circumstances, one should use protection (condoms) and urinate after intercourse to flush the semen from the vagina. Moreover, you should wash the vaginal area gently with lukewarm water.
Moreover, you can also use finger cots and dental dams during intercourse to prevent bacteria from getting into the vagina.
Also, Read 3 Myths About Sex During Pregnancy Should Be Eliminated
In addition to this, you should keep in mind that protected intercourse can also help in preventing sexually transmitted infections (STIs).
8. Be Mindful of How You Clean Your Vagina and Vulva
Douching is a process in which the inside of the vagina is cleaned with a solution or with water.
Many women think that they should douche. But, the doctors do not recommend douching as it can imbalance the natural vaginal pH and can cause several vaginal infections.
Douching can also exacerbate an infection by pushing the bacteria into the uterine area, ovaries, or fallopian tubes. This can cause pelvic inflammatory disease, a serious health problem.
On the other hand, some women use fragrant or other cleaning products to clean their vagina.
However, one should note that the vagina is a self-cleaning organ. It should not be cleaned with any product or method unless prescribed by your doctor.
If you want to clean your vulva and vagina, then simply rinse the area with lukewarm water.
Moreover, the vagina cleans itself by secreting vaginal discharge.
If you’re unsure about cleaning the vagina, then you can also watch this video by Dr. Samina Toufeeq – Gynecologist in which she talks about cleaning the vagina.
When to See a Doctor?
You should consult the best gynecologist in Pakistan if you have the following:
- Abnormal Vaginal Discharge
- Pelvic or Abdominal Pain
- Itching or Burning in the Vaginal Area
- Tried Home Remedies But Still the Symptoms Did not Resolve
- Developing Odd Symptoms Frequently
- Have Anything Off with Vagina
Key Takeaways
A healthy vagina has a moderately acidic pH that aids in normal vaginal flora thrive. The good bacteria keep the vagina clean and keep the vagina infection-free.
pH imbalance in the vagina can cause harmful bacteria to outgrow the good bacteria and cause many odd symptoms including unpleasant vaginal discharge, itching, burning, foul odors, etc. But, thanks to the ways through which we can restore the natural vaginal pH.
Now, you don’t have to search for How to balance vaginal pH naturally? Just follow the recommended ways and see the results!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. How can I rebalance my pH quickly?
If you want to rebalance your vaginal pH, then you should stay hydrated, avoid smoking, eat healthy, practice mindfulness, consume probiotics, and take care of your hygiene.
2. What foods help pH balance?
For pH balance in the vagina, one should use sweet potatoes, fruits, Omega-3 fatty acids, probiotics, cranberries, soy, avocados, leafy greens, etc.
3. What drinks are good for pH balance?
For pH balance, some drinks such as water, buttermilk, dairy, some juices, almond milk, and some teas are good.