There is a point in every woman’s life that makes being a woman not so fun. Yes, we rule the world. Yes, we can make humans. Yes, we probably all have channeled our inner "Beyonce." But with all that, we also combat vaginal health issues, making us feel not-so-great. Most vaginal problems stem from an imbalanced pH level which can cause various unpleasant symptoms, from itching and burning to unusual discharge or foul smells down there.

A healthy vaginal pH level falls between 3.8 and 4.5, which is considered acidic. If you’re feeling not so fresh, it's probably due to a dip or increase in your pH levels. But do not fret – fluctuations in pH balance are very normal, and there is hope for you and your vagina. If your vagina is bringing you down, check out some helpful tips to keep your vagina so fresh and so clean, clean.

Tips to Keep Your Vag Oh So Fresh

Follow these simple tips that can help save the day or at least restore your vaginal pH levels:

• Wear Cotton Underwear: When buying undies, cotton is best because it is airy and breathable. Synthetic fabrics can trap sweat and moisture, allowing bacteria and yeast to grow.
• Good Feminine Hygiene: The vagina self-cleans with natural vaginal secretions and discharge. It is best to avoid douching and not using scented soaps or body wash on the vagina. Mild, unscented soaps that are paraben-free and hypoallergenic are ok, but you really only need water. Also, make sure to change tampons, discs, and pads and wipe front to back to avoid bacterial issues that can throw off your pH levels.
• Probiotics: Taking a probiotic supplement daily will help restore lactobacilli (healthy bacteria) levels in your body. When they are out of balance, yeast infections can occur. Of course, you can also eat foods rich in probiotics. These include yogurt, kombucha, pickles, kefir, sourdough, sauerkraut, and kimchi. 
• Maintain a Healthy Diet: Eating a well-balanced diet that's high in fiber and low in sugar is one of the best ways to keep your vaginal pH at healthy levels. Excess sugar in the body can lead to higher pH levels and fuel yeast to grow.
• Use Condoms: Unfortunately, sex can turn not so sexy if bacteria from the deed get into your urinary tract. Not only will condoms help prevent STDs and UTIs, but they will also help prevent alkaline semen from disrupting your vaginal pH levels.
• Apple Cider Vinegar: ACV is a great antibacterial and antifungal that can be easily added to your diet. Check out Checkable's ACV gummy for the perfect dose to keep your pH levels at their best.
• Vaginal Wipes: Certain wipes are good to use to wipe off bacteria after sex, workouts, or just going to the bathroom. Make sure the wipes you buy are designed for vaginas, have no scents, and no chemicals that will kill the good bacteria. You don’t need wipes, though; vaginas are self-cleaning.
• Drink water: Staying hydrated is usually a good solution for all ailments, this includes the vagina. Dehydration can lead to itching around the vagina or worsen yeast infections, and water can help flush out bad bacteria.

If you notice something feels different downstairs, it could be due to fluctuations in pH balance that can cause Bacterial Vaginosis (BV), yeast infections, or UTIs. If unsure of what the culprit could be, try identifying the symptoms to help hone in on the problem. Checkable's at-home test strips for UTIs and vaginal pH levels will also tell you if your vaginal pH is off, which indicates an infection. Following these tips should help you maintain healthy vaginal pH levels that will keep you healthier head-to-vagina.