What does a vaginal pH test measure?
The vaginal pH test measures the pH level of a vaginal swab sample semi-quantitatively within the range of 3.8–7.0. Changes in vaginal acidity can provide useful information when assessing whether symptoms or changes may need evaluation by a healthcare professional.
The normal vaginal pH range is usually 3.8–4.4, which means that the vaginal environment is mildly acidic. This acidic environment is part of the vagina’s natural protective system and helps limit the growth of many unwanted bacteria. However, a vaginal pH result alone cannot identify the cause of a change or diagnose an infection.
Why choose this vaginal pH test?
This vaginal pH test is designed for checking vaginal pH conveniently at home. The sample is collected using the sterile swab supplied with the kit, and the result is read immediately by comparing the colour of the test area with the pH colour scale on the foil pouch.
- Easy self-test using a vaginal swab sample
- Measures vaginal pH from 3.8 to 7.0
- Immediate result without sending a sample to a laboratory
- Clear colour comparison scale for reading the result
- Test panel, sterile swab and instructions for use included
- CE 0123 marked IVD self-test for home use
When should you take a vaginal pH test?
The test can be used when you want to monitor vaginal pH or check whether symptoms may be associated with a change in vaginal acidity.
For a more reliable result, do not perform the test until at least 72 hours after using vaginal preparations, 48 hours after sexual intercourse and 5 days after the end of menstruation. Do not wash or douche the vaginal area immediately before testing, and avoid contaminating the sample with urine.
Menstruation, sexual intercourse, vaginal medicines, vaginal contraceptives and menopause can all affect vaginal pH. Always follow the instructions supplied with the test.
How do you use the vaginal pH test?
Wash your hands and collect the sample using the sterile swab supplied in the package according to the instructions for use.
Press the tip of the swab firmly against the pH test area at least five times to transfer enough vaginal secretion onto the test panel. Read the result immediately while the test area is still wet and compare the colour with the pH scale printed on the foil pouch from the same package.
How do you interpret a vaginal pH test result?
- pH 3.8–4.4: the result is within the test’s normal vaginal pH range.
- pH above 4.4 or below 3.8: the result is outside the test’s normal range.
An abnormal vaginal pH may be associated with a change in the vaginal environment, but the result alone cannot confirm bacterial vaginosis or another infection.
This is not a sexually transmitted infection test. It does not detect HIV, chlamydia, herpes, gonorrhoea, syphilis or other sexually transmitted infections.
What should you do if your vaginal pH is outside the normal range?
Do not start treatment based solely on the pH test result. If the result is outside the normal range or you have symptoms, discuss the result with a healthcare professional.
During menopause, vaginal pH may be higher without being caused by a bacterial or parasitic infection. During pregnancy, symptoms or an abnormal vaginal pH result should always be assessed by a healthcare professional.
Can menopause affect vaginal pH?
Yes. Vaginal pH can increase during and after menopause as oestrogen levels decrease and the vaginal environment changes. A higher vaginal pH during menopause therefore does not automatically mean that an infection is present.
Menopause refers to a woman’s final menstrual period and is usually confirmed retrospectively after 12 consecutive months without menstruation. The menopausal transition, often called perimenopause, begins before menopause and is associated with hormonal changes that can also affect the vaginal environment.
Can a vaginal pH test detect bacterial vaginosis?
No. An elevated vaginal pH can occur with bacterial vaginosis and other changes in the vaginal environment, but a pH test alone cannot determine the cause.
If you have symptoms such as unusual discharge, odour, irritation or discomfort, or if your pH result is outside the normal range, a healthcare professional can assess whether further testing is needed.
Is a vaginal pH test the same as an STI test?
No. A vaginal pH test measures only the acidity of the vaginal environment. It does not detect sexually transmitted infections such as chlamydia, gonorrhoea, herpes, syphilis or HIV.
Can you use a vaginal pH test during pregnancy?
During pregnancy, symptoms or an abnormal vaginal pH result should be assessed by a healthcare professional. The test result should not be used as the sole basis for treatment or medical decisions.
What is included in the vaginal pH test kit?
The package contains:
- 1 vaginal pH test panel
- 1 sterile sampling swab
- Instructions for use
- pH colour scale on the foil pouch
You will also need toilet paper.
How should the vaginal pH test be stored?
Store the test in its sealed pouch at 2–30 °C until the expiry date. Do not freeze. Use the test panel within one hour of opening the foil pouch, preferably immediately.
Order the vaginal pH test for simple and convenient monitoring of vaginal pH at home.
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