Healthy vaginal flora

The healthy vagina is not germ-free, but it has a natural protective function. The yeast and bacteria are finely balanced, so that, for example, yeasts are prevented from growing and causing unpleasant symptoms. A healthy balance depends on a specific pH level, an acidic environment in which harmful yeasts and bacteria cannot survive.

The vaginal environment is substantially effected by hormones, changing in the course of the menstrual cycle and throughout a woman’s life. During her fertile years, a woman’s vaginal flora consists primarily of lactobacilli. These bacteria turn sugar found in the cells of the vaginal wall into lactic acid. This produces the acidic pH level that prevents yeast and bacteria from spreading in the vagina. Germs can barely survive this acidic environment, if at all. In this way, the vagina and internal organs are naturally protected from infection. A healthy vaginal pH level is therefore of great importance.

A balanced pH level

The healthy pH level of the vagina is between 3.8 and 4.4. This is lower than the pH level of other skin areas, meaning it is more acidic. Yeasts are often already present in the vagina, but the acidic climate prevents them from growing.

Various factors can affect the pH level, weakening the body’s defences. If the pH level is raised (above 4.4), there is a deficiency of lactobacilli that upsets the healthy vaginal environment. Harmful bacteria, germs, can become established, resulting in a vaginal infection. This impairment of the vagina’s natural defences means that germs can reach, for example, the uterus, fallopian tubes and ovaries. The fact that the urethral opening, vagina and anus are all so close to one another in the female genital area makes this natural defence mechanism even more important.