The vaginal pH balancing act

Normal vaginal pH falls in the range from 3.8 to 4.5, creating a moderately acidic vaginal environment where beneficial bacteria thrive but bad bacteria struggle to take a foothold. As in most ecosystems, a delicate ‘balancing act’ is at play in the vagina – the presence of healthy vaginal microbiota helps maintain an acidic pH, and the acidic pH helps maintain this beneficial microbiota .1-3 Maintaining a healthy acidic environment is an important protective function for the vagina, but when this pH balancing act is disturbed and acidity reduced, it can lead to disruption of the vaginal microbiota.^1,2

A healthy acidic vaginal pH in women of reproductive age is related in part to her oestrogen levels ,^1-3 so hormone fluctuations associated with menstruation, pregnancy, and menopause can alter vaginal pH and disrupt balance in the vaginal ecosystem .^1,2,4 As well as changes in life stage, other triggers that can disrupt vaginal pH include sexual intercourse, hygiene practices, infections, and some medications .^1,4

Vaginal discharge is a normal occurrence for women, and its texture and colour typically change over the course of the menstrual cycle .¹ However, reduced vaginal acidity that disrupts the healthy vaginal microbiota can lead to overgrowth of bacteria that can cause bacterial vaginosis. Bacterial vaginosis is a common cause of an abnormal thin, watery, grey vaginal discharge and an unpleasant vaginal odour that is sometimes described as ‘fishy’.^1-3 Patients with signs or symptoms associated with bacterial vaginosis should be advised to speak with their doctor. Other signs and symptoms of disrupted vaginal pH can include vaginal irritation, itching, or burning.¹

When life disrupts the vaginal balancing act, Aci-Jel® Balance can help restore and maintain the natural acidic vaginal environment. Aci-Jel® Balance is a fragrance-free vaginal jelly that contains acetic acid, ricinoleic acid, and oxyquinoline sulphate and is buffered at pH 4.0. It comes with an applicator to facilitate easy administration – getting the right amount to the right spot in the vagina. Aci-Jel® Balance can be used every day to maintain natural vaginal pH and prevent recurrence of symptoms, but it can also be used to relieve symptoms that may occur around the time of menstruation – providing relief from embarrassing odour, abnormal discharge, and discomfort.

Click here to learn more about Aci-Jel® and how it can help restore and maintain the vaginal ecosystem.