What a healthy balance looks like
A healthy vagina is naturally acidic, with a pH of about 3.8 to 4.5, maintained by lactobacilli. Normal discharge changes through the cycle: creamy after a period, clearer and stretchy around ovulation, thicker before the next period. A mild smell is normal.
What can upset the balance
Antibiotics, perfumed washes and douching, tight synthetic underwear, periods, semen, pregnancy and lower oestrogen after menopause can all shift the pH for a while. The inside of the vagina cleans itself; only the external area, the vulva, needs gentle washing.
Support in this collection
The Vaginal pH Test Kit lets you check at home. Ultimate V and pH Hero provide live cultures. The Baûbo Intimate Cleansing Bar and Soothing Vulva Balm are made for external care, and the Vaginal Balance Kit brings several together.
When to see a doctor
A strong fishy smell, grey or green discharge, thick white discharge with itching, pain, sores, or bleeding between periods or after sex should be checked. Home tests help you notice changes but do not replace a diagnosis.