The dream of 5.5

In the realm of skincare,  we see the pH value of 5.5 everywhere, proudly proclaimed by cosmetic companies as the golden standard for skin health. It’s a number we’ve become familiar with, but what about the often-taboo realm of intimate hygiene? In this post, let me share my newly gained knowledge on this personal yet crucial topic.

Did you know that the pH level of healthy intimate skin is slightly more acidic than the skin on the rest of our bodies? For women of reproductive age, a balanced genital pH ranges from 4 to 4.5 ss-pH. This is essential for maintaining optimal health and preventing discomfort.

During pregnancy I discovered just how significant this pH can be, and learnt how its disruption, whether due to menstruation, hormonal changes, or increased discharge during pregnancy or breastfeeding, can lead to irritations, potentially escalating to yeast infections or even increasing the risk of sexually transmitted diseases (STDs).

Intimate Hygiene Products

Learning about the crucial role of pH balance in intimate health led me to look into the practical solutions available for maintaining it. While I had noticed specialised wash gels and creams designed for intimate feminine hygiene before, the necessity of a special wash gel for ‘down there’ eluded me. That was until I started noticing how my pregnancy hormones affected my genital zones. So, I looked more closely at the product descriptions and talked to my doctor. Now I understand the role of these shower gels and lotions in preserving the delicate pH balance of the vaginal environment. 

Even the “sensitive” or “pH 5.5 balanced” general shower gels irritated my intimate areas. Pregnancy particularly is a time when hormonal fluctuations are heightened, and the body undergoes significant changes both inside and out. To maintain a healthy genital pH balance, then, incorporating the specialised intimate products into your routine in place of your usual shower gels is, in my opinion, quite advisable. (Note: I’ve heard some people say you shouldn’t use any shower or wash gels for intimate hygiene, but I don’t feel comfortable or clean enough if I only use water! The choice between wash gels and other hygiene practices is ultimately a personal one, and understanding what works best for you is key.)

Holistic Health Practices

While specialised wash gels offer targeted care, maintaining intimate health involves more than just external solutions. What I learnt from my doctor is that, actually, embracing a holistic approach to intimate health by including probiotics in your diet, particularly by eating yoghurts for example, can be a big help, too. These probiotic cultures aid in promoting the growth of beneficial bacteria, contributing to the overall health of the intimate area. And let’s not forget the importance of safe sex practices during intimacy. Using condoms not only protects against unwanted pregnancies and STDs, but also plays a role in maintaining the delicate pH balance, by safeguarding the intimate ecosystem.

Prioritise your privates!

Overall, I’d say that intimate hygiene is a conversation that deserves more attention. It’s time to embrace a more open dialogue about the personal aspects of self-care.  I’ve found that understanding and actively working to maintain the healthy pH balance of my intimate skin can make a significant difference to my overall well-being – especially when going through such hormonal upheaval! So, let’s break the silence, and empower each other to prioritise our intimate health! 

Image by Freepik <a href=”https://www.freepik.com/free-photo/girl-holding-flower_3632031.htm#query=women%20taking%20off%20panties&position=5&from_view=keyword&track=ais”>Freepik</a>