Vaginal pH balance

Vaginal pH balance refers to the moderately acidic environment of the vagina (pH 3.8–4.5 in reproductive-age women) maintained primarily by lactic acid production by *Lactobacillus* species and to a lesser extent by vaginal epithelial metabolism[1][2][5][6]. This acidity serves as a natural barrier against pathogenic microorganisms, supports a healthy vaginal microbiome, and is influenced by age, hormonal status, sexual activity, hygiene practices, and the presence of infection or dysbiosis[1][4][5][8]. While not a target molecule, vaginal pH is a clinically important biomarker for gynecologic health, disease risk (e.g., bacterial vaginosis, candidiasis), and therapeutic monitoring. Loss of normal acidic pH correlates with increased infection risk, inflammation, and reproductive tract pathology[1][2][7].

Other names

Vaginal acidityVaginal pH valueVaginal fluid pH

Restoration or acidification of vaginal pH by promoting growth of acid-producing bacteria (especially *Lactobacillus* spp.)[5][9]; Direct acidification (lactic acid gel provides exogenous lactic acid); Suppression of overgrowth of pathogenic and anaerobic bacteria by creating an acidic environment[1][2]