The vagina is a slightly acidic environment, with a pH of less than 4.5. Higher pH levels allow bacteria and yeasts to thrive, and this can result in bacterial and yeast infections.
Vaginal pH tests measure the acidity of the vagina on a scale of 1–14, with lower readings indicating greater acidity. They can help indicate whether vaginal symptoms may be due to an infection that requires treatment.
This article describes what a vaginal pH test is and lists some of the best at-home vaginal pH tests available. We also provide information on when to get a vaginal pH test, how to choose the best one, and what to do if vaginal pH levels are outside the normal range. Finally, we answer some FAQs about vaginal pH.
- Most discreet: Stix Vaginal pH Test for Yeast Infections
- Best for regular use: Nutrablast Feminine pH Test Strips Full Range 1–14
- Best for pH monitoring: Loyal All My [pH]eels Full Range pH Test Strips
- Most secure: SEROFlora Feminine pH Test Strips
A vaginal pH test measures the acidity of the vagina on a scale of
The test involves placing a swab against the wall of the vagina for a specified amount of time. The swab holds a piece of pH paper that changes color. The test kit contains a chart that allows a person to match the color of their test strip with the corresponding color on the chart to determine their vaginal pH.
MNT chooses at-home tests that meet the following criteria:
- Laboratories: Where possible, MNT will choose companies that process test samples in
CLIA-certified labs. This means they follow state and federal regulations. - Budget: MNT chooses at-home tests that suit a wide range of budgets.
- Privacy: MNT includes companies that offer robust and transparent privacy measures, such as data protection and discreet packaging.
- Test result speed: MNT selects companies that inform customers of when they will receive their test results and whether they will receive them via email, app, or phone.
- Further support: MNT will indicate whether a company offers further support, such as a follow-up phone consultation with a doctor to discuss test results.
Please note that the writer of this article has not tried these products. All information presented is purely research-based and correct at the time of publication.
Medical News Today follows a strict product selection and vetting process. Learn more here.
Most discreet: Stix Vaginal pH Test for Yeast Infections
Cost: $11 for two tests
Stix is a company that manufactures tests for the following uses:
- measuring vaginal pH levels
- detecting urinary tract infections
- detecting pregnancy
- understanding other women’s health issues
Stix Vaginal pH Test for Yeast Infections is a discrete vaginal pH testing kit.
The website states that the test delivers results in 2 minutes. The kit includes easy-to-follow instructions.
Stix offers a subscription service for regular test delivery.
Despite company claims, the test cannot tell a person whether they have a yeast infection. However, it can indicate whether a person should book an appointment with their doctor.
Best for regular use: Nutrablast Feminine pH Test Strips Full Range 1–14
Cost: $14.99 for a roll of 100
Nutrablast Feminine pH Test Strips Full Range 1–14 is an at-home vaginal pH test that emphasizes accuracy and a straightforward approach.
At a cost of $14.99 for a roll of 100 test strips, the product is one of the most affordable on the market. Users will need to cut individual strips from the roll to conduct each test.
With many tests included in each kit, this is a good option for people who experience chronic or recurrent vaginal symptoms.
These test kits provide minimal information, making them more suitable for experienced users.
Best for pH monitoring: Loyal All My [pH]eels Full Range pH Test Strips
Cost: $14.99 for 100 tests
The Loyal All My [pH]eels website states that monitoring vaginal pH levels can help users learn about their bodies and take action on self-care decisions.
The test kit contains 100 strips, and tests produce results in 30 seconds.
Some users reported not seeing a change in color and feeling that the product did not work.
Most secure: SEROFlora Feminine pH Test Strips
Cost: about $16.99 for 40 test strips
A box of SEROFlora Feminine pH Test Strips contains 40 test strips which are pre-cut.
The strips come wrapped in an aluminum pouch to support the accuracy of the tests and help maintain product freshness.
The company claims that its product offers quick and accurate results and an easy-to-read color chart.
The table below compares the five different vaginal pH testing kits according to cost, convenience, and information provided.
| Stix Vaginal pH Tests | Nutrablast Feminine pH Test Strips Full Range 1–14 | Loyal All My [pH]eels Full Range pH Test Strips | SEROFlora Feminine pH Test Strips | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cost | $11 | $14.99 | $14.99 | $16.99 |
| Quantity | 2 | 100 | 100 | 40 |
| Pros | easy-to-read instructions and clear results | affordable bulk option | affordable option with clear information on pH levels | packaged in aluminum pouches for freshness and quality |
| Cons | few test strips | no instructions | not always effective | more packaging |
A person may consider getting a vaginal pH test if they experience vaginal symptoms that indicate an infection. Examples of such symptoms
- unusual vaginal discharge
- unpleasant odor
- itching around the vulva and vagina
- a burning sensation during urination
- pelvic pain
A person should see their doctor if an at-home vaginal pH test shows that their vaginal pH levels are outside the normal range. A doctor will offer additional tests to determine the cause, and they will prescribe appropriate treatments.
According to the
An at-home vaginal pH test cannot say definitively if a person has an infection or what kind of infection that may be. A doctor can determine what type of infection a person has, if any, and prescribe treatment if necessary.
It is important to note that a vaginal pH test result that is within the normal range does
Below are some answers to frequently asked questions (FAQs) about vaginal pH.
What can throw off my pH balance?
Many factors can cause a vaginal pH imbalance, including:
- infections
- taking antibiotics
- douching
- wearing tight pants
- using vaginal products
- pregnancy
How do I know if my vaginal pH balance is off?
The following
- changes in discharge
- unpleasant odor
- pain when urinating
- discomfort during sexual intercourse
- itching and burning around the vulva or vagina
When should I check my vaginal pH?
A person should consider taking an at-home vaginal pH test if they experience vaginal symptoms that do not resolve quickly or resolve and then recur.
Untreated vaginal pH imbalances can increase the risk of sexually transmitted diseases and problems during pregnancy.
A healthy vagina contains a balanced mix of bacteria and has a slightly acidic pH. A variety of factors can throw off the bacterial balance, including bacterial and yeast infections. These infections can cause a range of symptoms, including unusual discharge, unpleasant odor, and irritation of the vulva or vagina.
A person may choose to take a vaginal pH test if they experience persistent or recurrent vaginal symptoms. The test involves placing a swab against the wall of the vagina. The swab contains a piece of pH paper that changes color to indicate the vaginal pH.
If the results of a vaginal pH test are outside the normal range, a person should consult their doctor for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment. People should also speak with their doctor if their pH value is within the normal range, but they continue to experience symptoms.