The vagina of a healthy woman has a certain amount of acidity or pH.
Normal vaginal pH is 3.8 to 4.2. Bad bacteria, viruses and yeast don’t usually grow in this pH. However, any time there is a change in the normal vaginal pH, a woman may get an overgrowth of bad bacteria, viruses and yeast. All age groups and races are affected. Some of the factors that change the vaginal acidity include:
- Recent use of antibiotics
- Birth control pills
- Chemical irritation (e.g. swimming, laundry detergent)
- Douching
- Feminine hygiene products (especially if scented)
- IUD (Intrauterine device)
- Pregnancy
- Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs)
- Sexual intercourse
- Stress
- Vaginal medications
- Vaginal dryness *
It is very important to find the cause of your vaginitis and seek treatment. Common causes are bacterial vaginosis, yeast infection and trichomoniasis (STD). Up to 72 percent of women with vaginitis may remain undiagnosed. All women with abnormal vaginal discharge should have a pelvic examination by their doctor and be ready to answer questions about the quantity, duration, color, consistency and odor of your discharge. Recurrent vaginal infections can cause chronic irritation and scarring, which can lead to emotional stress and sexual dysfunction.
*One of the most important reasons for inflammation of the vagina (vaginitis) in menopausal women is low estrogen level. Symptoms may include painful intercourse, dryness, itching and abnormal bleeding. Using a 100 percent natural feminine moisturizer, such as FabuVag, may help soothe the irritated vaginal tissue. Order online at naturalvaginalsolutions.com, or call (844) 888-9966.
Dr. Sharzad Green has been a pharmacist since 1990. She has Western training with a twist of Eastern medicine. She specializes in bioidentical hormone therapy and natural alternatives. Contact her at (480) 264-7600 or via email at azhormonehelpers@hotmail.com. You may read her blogs at greenbalancerx.wordpress.com.