Is a Vaginal pH Problem Affecting Your Fertility?

Your vaginal pH is probably not something you’ve thought much about unless you’ve experienced a problem with it, or are struggling with infertility. pH is the balance between acidity and alkalinity in an environment, in this case the vagina. This delicate system usually works without the need for intervention, but can lose its balance. Let me share about the different types of pH problems to watch for and offer natural ways to overcome them, as well as the importance of having balanced vaginal pH.

The Importance of Fluctuating pH

The pH of the vagina is generally self-regulating. It ranges from 3.8-4.5 (slightly acidic) for most of the menstrual cycle. The acidic pH of the vagina serves an important role in your health, creating a natural barrier to infections like bacterial vaginosis (BV) and yeast overgrowth (Candida). However, vaginal pH needs to fluctuate to accommodate natural fertility.

The acidic pH of the vagina that fights bacteria and excess yeast can weaken and even kill sperm. It is during ovulation that surges in luteinizing hormone (LH) and an increase in cervical mucus cause pH to move into the 7 plus range, or more alkaline, explain Brazilian researchers in the journal MedicalExpress. This increase in cervical mucus and shift to a more alkaline pH allows sperm a chance to survive for up to 48 hours inside the female reproductive system. There, they can safely travel through the vagina and cervix into the fallopian tubes for conception.

Major Causes of Overly Acidic Vaginal pH

1. Dietary imbalance: If your diet is too high in acid-forming foods, your natural regulatory systems can’t maintain balance. Too many fried foods, fast foods, processed foods and sugars are usually the culprit. Tobacco, caffeine and alcohol also throw off pH balance. Eating more fresh fruits and vegetables is the first step to re-alkalizing the body. 

2. Dehydration: Drinking plenty of water is extremely important for vaginal pH. A dehydrated body is an overly acidic body. The mucus membranes in the vagina require fluids to be supported and healthy. Without enough water, the cervical mucus that balances pH and supports fertility becomes too low. Drink plenty of water (at least 8 glasses) every day even if you’re not thirsty.