Is It Yeast Infection Or Something Else?

Check out this excellent report written by Marie Savard, M.D. - the ABC News Medical Contributor (July 14, 2008).

Savard explains how we can use a simple pH test to determine whether we can safely assume we have a yeast infection (and take remedial action without the need to visit the doctor)

"Yeast grows in the vagina when the typical acid producing vaginal bacteria called lactobacillus is overtaken by other bacteria, either from antibiotics, from douching, or even in women who have less estrogen after menopause."

This results in reduced acidity of the vaginal fluids - in other words, lower pH. She goes on to explain that:

"The pH or acidity of the vaginal fluid with other infections such as bacterial vaginosis (also called BV) and trichomoniasis (commonly referred to as trich) typically is much higher "

Margaret J Sparrow explains this further:

Figure 2. Narrow-range pH tape for testing vaginal pH. The healthy vagina is acidic, between 3.8 and 4.5 (yellow or pale green). An alkaline pH (blue) is found with bacterial vaginosis and trichomoniasis. a sample of the vaginal secretion from the lateral vaginal wall is obtained with a smear spatula or swab... READ MORE

So if we test the pH level and find it normal to low - then we can reasonably assume that the "irritation" we experience is from yeast infection - and take remedial action suitable for that (natural, lifestyle or pharmaceutical - whatever you find works). If the pH is higher than normal - then safer to get a professional diagnosis.

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