Acidity of the vagina is an important indicator of a woman's reproductive health. The acidity of the vagina is determined by the lactobacilli living in it, which produce lactic acid. The normal level of acidity ensures protection of this organ from the colonization and reproduction of pathogenic fungi and bacteria in it.
But, when there is a decrease in the number of lactobacilli, this is immediately reflected in the acidity index. As reasons for the increased acidity of the vagina, shifts in the hormonal background, antibacterial drugs, decreased immunity, climate change and stress can occur.
Norm of acidity of the vagina
The normal acidity is 3.8-4.5. The indicator above these values indicates the alkaline environment of the vagina, below - on acid. Thus, the increase in acidity is said when the pH becomes lower than 3.8.
Acidity of the vagina during pregnancy
Pregnancy may well cause a change in the acidity of the vagina. And this can threaten a woman, carrying a child, bacterial vaginosis , which can not be allowed. Therefore, women "in position" should determine this indicator twice a week. This is especially true for those women who previously had dysbiosis.
How to determine the acidity of the vagina?
To know the acidity in such an intimate place of the female body does not necessarily have to go to the doctor and take the appropriate tests. For this, there are special tests for the acidity of the vagina.
A home test for determining the acidity of the vagina is a set of diagnostic strips and a table by which the result is to be evaluated. To find out the level of acidity, for a few seconds, attach the test strip to the wall of the vagina.
High pH will indicate a decrease in acidity, low, on the contrary, to increase it or acidification.
How to reduce the acidity of the vagina?
Before taking measures to reduce acidity in the vagina in any folk way, you need to go to a consultation with a gynecologist. Only a specialist will be able to determine the cause of this condition and will answer the question of how to reduce the acidity of the vagina, appointing an adequate treatment aimed at bringing the vaginal microflora back to normal.