What vaginal pH indicates bacterial vaginosis?

Bacterial vaginosis (BV) is characterized by an imbalance in the normal flora of the vagina, leading to an increased pH. In healthy individuals, the vaginal pH typically ranges from 3.5 to 4.5, primarily due to the presence of lactobacilli, which produce lactic acid and maintain a more acidic environment.

In cases of bacterial vaginosis, the vaginal pH rises above 4.5, indicating a shift towards more alkaline conditions. This is a key factor in diagnosing BV, as the higher pH levels reflect the decrease in beneficial lactobacilli and an increase in various other bacteria. Monitoring pH is a crucial component of the diagnostic process, and a value greater than 4.5 is strongly suggestive of bacterial vaginosis. Understanding this leads to the recognition that a vaginal pH greater than 4.5 is a fundamental part of the clinical definition and assessment of this condition.