WTH is pH? Is a vaginal wash necessary in our shower routine? Should we mess with that cyst or…? Your nether regions questions have been heard, dear readers, and we hope you’re ready for the answers. Someone who knows a good deal about these things is OB-GYN Dr. Ali Rodriguez (she/her) aka The Latina Doc on TikTok who is all about keeping it real. “I know this area is still very taboo and can be difficult to talk about for some people,” she says. “I’m working hard to break this stigma so that women feel empowered and educated about their bodies!”

Now, what should our secret garden really smell like… (Hint: Not an actual garden!)

What is vaginal pH?
The vagina is a self cleaning organ. Meaning: We don’t have to do much to help the vaginal pH stay balanced. It’s actually best to leave it alone! Using certain douches, soaps, and harsh chemicals can actually throw off the vaginal pH and lead to infections. Of course, we can still get infections from time to time (see: yeast and BV), but please see your advanced medical provider for any issues before trying at-home remedies.

What is a normal range for your pH to be in?
Anywhere from 3.8-5.0, with the average being 4.5. The vagina is acidic!

You mentioned before that the vagina is a self cleaning organ. So are cleansers not vital for vaginal care?
In my professional opinion, nope! Just use water.

Newsette note: “If you want to use soap, choose a soap that’s unscented, mild, and colorless. Fragranced soap can irritate the sensitive skin in and around the vulva.”

What should a vagina normally smell like? Are there smells we should be concerned about?
There’s no “one answer fits all” for this question because we’re all different. But I can guarantee you that vaginas are not supposed to smell like flowers or perfumes. If you notice a change to your normal odor or discharge (think: fishy, thick green/white/yellow discharge that’s bothersome or itchy), please make an appointment to see your provider. These could be signs of an infection.

What should we do if we think we’ve found a cyst or sore down there?
Best practice for all things having to do with the vagina—leave it alone. When something is bothering you, please reach out to your advanced medical provider. We all have glands that are in the vagina and they provide lubrication and necessary moisture to the vagina, but they are supposed to be there and don’t need to be messed with.

What other concerning symptoms should we look out for?
Aside from discharge which I mentioned above, if there’s anything that’s bothering you—itching, burning, bumps, pain, questions/concerns—it’s always best to make an appointment with your provider so that we can evaluate it ourselves. And remember: Don’t worry too much! This is our job and we’re here to help you.