What increases the pH value in the vagina? | PH value of the vagina

What increases the pH value in the vagina?

Infections are the most common reason for an increase in the pH value in the vagina. Streptococci, staphylococci, Escherichia coli and Gardnerella vaginalis, for example, can play a role here. Common symptoms of vaginal infection are burning and itching of the vagina, often in connection with discharge and fishy odor.

Fungi, especially Candida albicans, can also increase the pH value. The use of some antibiotics can also increase the pH value in the vagina. As often accompanying and undesired effect not only the actual pathogen, which was causative for the antibiotic therapy, is attacked but also important germs in the vaginal area perish.

By killing the lactobacilli in particular, the pH value is then alkalized, i.e. increased. During pregnancy, in addition to the increased probability of a vaginal infection, the increase in the vaginal pH value can also indicate a premature rupture of the bladder. Since amniotic fluid has an alkaline pH value, a more alkaline pH value occurs when the bladder bursts and in contact with the acidic vaginal environment.

A further reason for an increase in the vaginal pH is the sperm of the man during sexual intercourse, as the semen is naturally alkaline. It is therefore advisable to refrain from having sex for a few hours before the examination if you plan to measure the vaginal pH value, so as not to falsify the results of the examination. Urine can also cause the pH value of the vagina to rise, especially if the urine pH is alkaline due to a urinary tract infection.

In addition, the pH value of the vagina is also influenced by the monthly cycle. During menstruation, for example, the pH rises due to blood contact on the one hand and a drop in the estrogen level on the other. Higher pH values are also found in cases of excessive intimate hygiene, especially when shower lotions are used that do not correspond to the natural acidic environment of the vagina.

Many detergents and soaps are alkaline, so the vagina’s pH level can rise. Hormonal influences also influence the value. Before the menarche, i.e. the first period in adolescence, oestrogen levels are usually low. Hormone levels also drop again after menopause.Low estrogen is associated with a higher pH of the vagina.