Lactobacillus species maintain an acidic vaginal environment by producing acids; what effect does this have on vaginal pH?

Lactobacillus species maintain an acidic vaginal environment by producing acids; what effect does this have on vaginal pH?

• A. Raises vaginal pH
• B. Lowers vaginal pH
• C. No change in pH
• D. Variable pH

Answer: (B)

The main idea is that Lactobacillus species keep the vaginal environment acidic by making lactic acid. This acid production lowers the vaginal pH, typically to about 3.8–4.5 in healthy, reproductive-age individuals. The acidic environment helps prevent growth of many pathogens, acting as a protective factor. If lactobacilli are reduced, the pH can rise toward neutrality, increasing infection risk. So the effect of acid production is to lower the vaginal pH.

The main idea is that Lactobacillus species keep the vaginal environment acidic by making lactic acid. This acid production lowers the vaginal pH, typically to about 3.8–4.5 in healthy, reproductive-age individuals. The acidic environment helps prevent growth of many pathogens, acting as a protective factor. If lactobacilli are reduced, the pH can rise toward neutrality, increasing infection risk. So the effect of acid production is to lower the vaginal pH.