A rapid test for the semi-quantitative detection of pH level in
female vaginal swab specimen..
An acidic vaginal pH value of 4.0 to 4.4 is a basic requirement
for the optimal functioning of the body’s own system of
protecting the vagina. This system can effectively avoid
colonization by pathogenic germs and the occurrence of vaginal
infections. The most important and most natural protection
against vaginal problems is therefore a healthy vaginal flora.
There are many factors that regulate the composition and
dynamics of the vaginal microbial ecosystem and that maintain
the natural protective functions of the vagina.
One important factor is lacto bacteria. Under the influence of
lacto bacteria, the glycogen released from the upper vaginal
epithelium degrades to form the sugar glucose and then lactic
acid. This results in an acid environment forming in the vagina,
with a pH value that is usually 4.0 to 4.4. This acidic vaginal
environment forms effective protection against infections,
because the vast majority of bacteria that cause disease cannot
thrive under such conditions. The physiological vaginal pH level
is therefore dependent on the quantitative presence of the lactic
acid.1
The pH level in vagina is subject to fluctuations. Possible causes
of an alteration in the vaginal pH level are: bacterial vaginosis,
Bacterial mixed infections, Sexually transmitted diseases,
premature rupture of fetal membranes, Estrogen deficiency ,
postoperative infected wounds and excessive intimate care.2
A physiological and therefore normal vaginal pH level (pH 4.0 to
4.4) is important for the body’s own system of protecting the
vagina and the maintenance of a healthy vaginal flora. An
increase in the vaginal pH level to values of over 4.4 decreases
the quality of life of women who are affected by this
A disturbance in the microecological balance in the vagina (e.g.
dysbiosis) is often connected with an increase in the pH level.
Vaginal pH levels those are higher than 4.4 can lead to many
gynecological complaints and compilation
Materials Provided
