The letters "pH" stands for Potential Hydrogen and runs on a scale from 0 to 14. The pH level of anything indicates how acidic, neutral, or alkaline a substance is. A low pH value of less than 7 is considered acidic. A neutral pH is 7, and a high pH greater than 7 is basic or alkaline. To put things in perspective, lemons have a pH of 2.2, pickles are around 3.5, coffee is 5, pure water is 7, and soapy water is 11. pH levels do change throughout different stages of life, so fluctuations are normal and expected.

When something is neutral, there is a complete balance between acid and alkaline. Essentially, the human body as a whole should be in the range between 6.8 and 7.4, which is neutral and slightly acidic. With that said, each body part has its own pH level, including your vagina. Having a balanced vaginal pH level is vital in preventing infections, having healthy pregnancies, and having hormonal changes.

What is a Normal Vaginal pH Level?

A "normal" vaginal pH level for women in their reproductive years is on the acidic side, between 3.8 to 4.5. The vaginal pH becomes less acidic as women age, closer to 5. The vagina secretes fluids that not only prevent dryness but clean itself. The fluid contains acids that encourage the growth of healthy bacteria (Lactobacillus), which helps kill harmful bacteria and fungi. An unbalanced vaginal pH can make you more susceptible to various infections. High pH levels can bring on yeast infections, bacterial vaginosis, and even STDs like Trichomoniasis, chlamydia, and gonorrhea. pH levels that are too low can cause infertility or difficulties getting pregnant. Maintaining normal pH levels will help keep the vagina clean and infection-free. We encourage you to use Checkable's vaginal pH test strips regularly to see where your pH falls. Don't guess, TEST!

How Do You Know If Your Vaginal pH Is Imbalanced?

Good question, and sometimes you don't know. We recommend using vaginal pH test strips to help guide your suspicions. If your vaginal pH levels are off, you may experience these common symptoms that could indicate an infection. 

•     Strong, fishy smell from your vagina
•     Vaginal discharge that is yellow, grey, green, or cottage-cheese like
•     Itching around the vagina and vulva
•     Swelling and irritation around the vagina
•     Pain or burning feeling in the vagina during sex
•     Burning sensation while urinating

If any of these symptoms look familiar, you may have an imbalance. Many things can throw off your pH down there, from antibiotics, sex, wet clothes, your period, and even just hormones. You can take a pH test to get confirmation or narrow down your symptoms to get the proper treatment. If you want to make sure your vaginal pH is on the right scale, daily supplements and probiotics can help. Checkable Apple Cider Vinegar gummies can also help keep the bad bacteria away, thus leaving you happy and healthy. Our ACV gummies are effective, good for you, and taste great without the harsh side effects of the liquid form.