BALANCE IN THE INTIMATE AREA - INTIMATE HEALTH STARTS WITH A HEALTHY pH LEVEL

Every part of the body has an ideal pH level - and in the female intimate area, this value plays a crucial role. In a healthy vagina, the pH typically lies between 3.8 and 4.5. This means the environment is slightly acidic, which is essential for protecting against unwanted microorganisms.

This acidity is maintained by lactic acid bacteria, especially lactobacilli, which produce exactly the acid needed for balance. When these bacteria are present in the right number and activity, the environment stays stable. The acidic environment acts as a natural barrier against viruses and certain bacteria that cannot survive under these conditions. If the pH level rises and the environment becomes less acidic, the risk of infections, irritation, and symptoms like odor, itching, or unusual discharge increases.

WHEN BALANCE IS DISRUPTED

The vaginal microbiome - that is, the composition of microorganisms - can easily become unbalanced. This in itself is not unusual, but the consequences can be unpleasant. In addition to the beneficial bacteria like Lactobacillus, less desirable bacteria such as Gardnerella vaginalis, Prevotella, Peptostreptococcus, and Mobiluncus may also be present. Gardnerella is especially common in bacterial vaginosis, where it occurs in higher numbers and can cause symptoms such as a fishy odor or watery grayish discharge.

Imbalances can result from various factors. Hormonal fluctuations during the menstrual cycle, menopause, or pregnancy can all have an effect. Antibiotics, hormonal IUDs, synthetic underwear, and stress are also cited as causes. Sexual activity without a condom affects the pH level, particularly because semen is alkaline. This temporarily changes the acidic environment and can make it harder for the lactic acid bacteria to thrive.

Often, focus is placed on foreign bacteria during sex, but the scientific evidence for this is limited. What is certain, however, is that excessive hygiene can disrupt the natural pH balance. Normal washing with water is sufficient in most cases. The intimate area has a self-regulating defense, and the use of perfumed soaps or intimate wash products can do more harm than good.

SYMPTOMS OF INTIMATE IMBALANCE

When the vaginal environment changes, many women notice symptoms of imbalance. Typical signs include:

  • Itching in the intimate area
  • Vaginal odor, often fishy
  • Unusual discharge, watery, gray or greenish
  • Burning and redness
  • Dry mucous membranes
  • Pain during intercourse

These symptoms are often associated with bacterial vaginosis or yeast infections (candidiasis). In bacterial vaginosis, the pH is usually elevated (above 4.5–5.0), while a yeast infection can occur even with a normal pH level.

Persistent imbalance should be taken seriously, as it increases the risk of urinary tract infections, pelvic infections, and other complications.

HOW TO RESTORE BALANCE

A well-functioning vaginal microbiome requires a sufficient number of active lactic acid bacteria. Many products try to influence the environment by adding foreign bacteria, buffers, or acids – but these solutions have limited effectiveness. Foreign bacteria don’t necessarily become part of your natural flora - and rarely thrive long-term in your individual vaginal environment.

Instead, you can stimulate your own lactobacilli to produce more acid. This is done by providing them with lactose - their natural food source. LadyBalance® intimate tablets are the only product on the market that works on this principle. By "feeding" your body’s own lactic acid bacteria, the product supports a natural and personalized production of acid.

SCIENTIFIC BACKGROUND

Studies show that certain lactobacilli, such as Lactobacillus gasseri, can produce antimicrobial substances like bacteriocins. These have been shown to inhibit the growth of Gardnerella vaginalis - one of the most common culprits in bacterial vaginosis. This is another good reason to support your body’s own bacteria rather than trying to replace them.

WHAT ABOUT HOME REMEDIES AND SOUR MILK?

Many people have heard the tip to insert sour dairy products into the vagina. While these do contain lactic acid bacteria, they also contain proteins that are broken down into amines. These are alkaline, can smell unpleasant, and further disturb the balance. The same applies to many DIY products that do not consider your individual flora and are more likely to disturb than stabilize.

YOU CAN INFLUENCE YOUR OWN BALANCE

The vaginal environment is dynamic and affected by many factors. Fortunately, there are things you can do. Avoid excessive washing and perfumed products, choose breathable underwear, and maintain gentle hygiene. A balanced diet and awareness of hormonal shifts also help.

If you suspect an imbalance, testing your pH can help. If the value is above 4.5, the lactic acid flora should be supported - ideally with methods that work in harmony with your own microbiome.

LadyBalance® intimate tablets are developed specifically for this purpose - a discreet and natural way to support intimate health the body is already trying to maintain on its own.

Persistent symptoms should always be evaluated by a doctor.