There’s a reason it’s called “the change,” right? During menopause, the body goes through major hormonal changes, leaving you susceptible to common menopausal symptoms such as night sweats, hot flashes, and irritability, along with increased vaginal pH levels. pH is a measure of acidity and/or alkalinity. The acid-base scale runs from 0-14 (acidic-neutral-basic). The normal pH of the vagina is 3.8-4.5 in the acidic range. In the vaginal environment, Lactobacilli, often referred to as beneficial bacteria, generate lactic acid and hydrogen peroxide, both of which contribute to the maintenance of this acidic “environment.”
However, when the delicate balance is disrupted, the vaginal microbiome, which consists of bacteria, fungi, viruses, and other organisms, becomes susceptible to infection, displaying symptoms such as itching, unusual discharge, odor, redness, soreness, and irritation. “This acidic vaginal environment is very protective and important in maintaining a healthy vagina, it creates a barrier that prevents unwanted bacteria and yeast from coming in and creating infections,” says Dr. Omnia M. Samra-Latif Estafan MD, MPH, FACOG, FAARM, NCMP. The decline in estrogen levels during menopause can raise the vagina’s pH, causing a vaginal imbalance. The good news is there are steps you can take to prevent this! To learn more about how to prioritize your vaginal health, read below.
So, what exactly happens to your vaginal pH during menopause?
During menopause when estrogen levels are very low, the vaginal microbiome changes and becomes less diverse. Lactobacilli decline, while other organisms like anaerobic bacteria flourish, resulting in a vaginal imbalance. With a decreased presence of lactobacilli, the pH becomes less acidic, leading to the possibility of experiencing uncomfortable symptoms. In addition, low estrogen means less blood flow to the vagina, which leads to more delicate, less elastic tissue in general.
Besides menopause, what else can throw off your vaginal pH?
Dr. Samra-Latif Estafan states that things such as menstrual blood or exposure to semen will temporarily affect your pH. If you do not have a healthy vaginal pH, “these things will not allow the vaginal pH to bounce back, increasing the risk of infections.”
What are some ways to ensure your vaginal pH remains balanced?
The best way to optimize and maintain vaginal pH is to avoid disruptors such as unprotected sex, antibiotics, douching, and harsh chemicals including washes/soaps/detergents, and lubricants with chemicals. Also, it is advisable to use condoms, particularly when engaging in sexual activity with multiple partners. According to the Cleveland Clinic, incorporating probiotics into your routine could aid in maintaining vaginal pH balance. This is due to the presence of lactobacillus in probiotics, which generates lactic acid. This lactic acid, in turn, leads to the production of hydrogen peroxide, a factor which contributes to a healthy vaginal environment.
How can women make vaginal health a priority in their lives?
“Keeping a good healthy diet is important for our vaginal microbiome,” says Dr. Samra-Latif Estafan. “To ensure your vaginal pH remains balanced, incorporate probiotic-rich foods such as yogurt and kimchi and avoid sugary and processed foods. Bad bacteria love to feed on sugar and this will allow them to increase in number.” And lastly, consider adding a daily probiotic to your routine specifically formulated for vaginal health. Taking one pill a day offers a convenient and effective way to prioritize vaginal health. As previously mentioned, probiotics can play a significant role in maintaining a balanced vaginal pH. Tip: Look for an oral probiotic formulated with Lactobacillus rhamnosus GR-1 and Lactobacillus reuteri RC- 14 as those are proven to specifically impact feminine health.