What is Vaginal pH Imbalance ?
Vaginal PH Imbalance happens when there is an abnormal change in how the vaginal PH fluctuate during the menstrual cycle.
IMPORTANCE OF VAGINAL PH FLUCTUATIONS
- THE ACIDIC ENVIRONMENT
So, naturally for the most of the menstrual cycle (asides during ovulation) ,the vagina maintains a slightly acidic nature of 3.8- 4.5 which helps to protect it from infections. It does this by limiting the overgrowth of bacteria and yeast.
In cases where this pH is disrupted/ altered , you will find out that these organisms will thrive and can lead to infections like bacterial vaginosis or candidasis .
Sadly , this “normal” acidic nature of vagina can also prevent sperm cells from thriving and disrupt fertilization.
- THE ALKALINE ENVIRONMENT
As nature would have it and to encourage healthy fertilization ; During ovulation, there is an increase in Luteinizing hormone and cervical mucus production to cause the pH to become more alkaline around 7.0 to 8.5 . These help to create a better environ for the sperm to thrive/ live and move to fertilize the egg.
So as a woman maintaining a balanced vaginal PH ( whether acidic and alkaline when needed ) is very important for a healthy vaginal health and fertility health.
