We don't always think about it. Yet, it's information that changes everything.
Vaginal pH isn't the same for everyone. It changes depending on your body, your cycle, your lifestyle... but also, depending on your ethnic origin. And that's something few people know.
Today, we're talking about it. With kindness. With science.
Vaginal pH: a small number, a big role
pH is an indicator. It measures whether a medium is acidic or alkaline.
On a scale of 0 to 14, the lower the number, the more acidic it is.
In the vagina, this pH is naturally acidic. It fluctuates between 3.8 and 4.5.
Why? To protect. Against bad bacteria. Against fungi.
This role is played thanks to a delicate balance: the vaginal flora. Composed largely of lactobacilli, it maintains a stable environment.
However, this flora is not identical in all women.
Ethnic origin influences the flora, and therefore the pH.
Researchers have studied this. Their results are clear: not all microbiomes are the same.
Caucasian and Asian women often harbor dominant bacteria such as Lactobacillus crispatus. The result: a lower, and therefore more acidic, pH.
African American and Hispanic women, on the other hand, have a greater diversity of bacteria. Their flora often contains fewer lactobacilli. Their pH is therefore slightly higher.
A quick look to compare
| Ethnic origin | Dominant type of microbiota | vaginal pH trend | Comments |
|---|---|---|---|
| Caucasian | Lactobacillus crispatus | 3.8 – 4.2 | Stable and highly acidic flora |
| Asian | L. iners or L. crispatus | 4.0 – 4.5 | Less stable, but often acidic pH |
| African American | Mixed, less lactobacilli | 4.7 – 5.3 | More diverse flora, higher pH |
| Hispanic-American | Mixed (moderate diversity) | 4.5 – 5.0 | Less acidic, variable flora |
These values are averages. Your pH can vary depending on your cycle, diet, stress, hormones, and hygiene products.
Why do these differences matter?
Because vaginal pH is not a minor detail.
When he steps out of his ideal zone, the problems begin.
Burning sensations. Odors. Fungal infections. Itching. Vaginosis. Discomfort.
And often, we don't know where it comes from.
The answer may lie here: an unsuitable product, too aggressive, not designed for your flora.
That's why intimate care should adapt to you. Not the other way around.
Jolaine is a Quebec brand. Created by a woman, for women.
Its products are 99.6% natural, gentle, effective, dermatologically tested, and designed to respect your natural pH, whatever it may be.
No synthetic fragrances. No irritating soaps. No compromises.
Jolaine vs. the others: a useful comparison
| Features | Jolaine Products | Conventional products |
|---|---|---|
| pH balanced | ✔️ Respects the natural range | ❌ Too acidic or too alkaline, not always tested |
| Dermatologically tested | ✔️ Yes, on sensitive skin | ❓ Not always |
| Natural ingredients | ✔️ Soothing plants, free of SLS and parabens | ❌ Frequent irritants |
| Made locally | ✔️ Designed and produced in Quebec by a woman, for women | ❌ Often manufactured internationally |
| Specific to the microbiota | ✔️ Formulated for various types of flora | ❌ Generic formula |
An essential discovery
1. Balanced Intimate Foam - Jolaine
For those who want to get to the heart of the matter. Zero synthetic fragrance. Zero risk. Zero compromise. Cleanses without stripping. Hydrates without weighing down. Restores without imbalance. Safe enough to use every day.
The entire range is available on Jolaine Care .
What science says
Solid publications support these findings:
- Ravel et al. (2011) – The vaginal microbiome of reproductive-age women
- Zhou et al. (2007) – Microbial differences in women by race and ethnicity
- Mitra et al. (2016) – Microbiota and vaginal health
They all arrive at the same conclusion:
The diversity of vaginal flora depends on ethnicity.
And that influences the pH.
How to keep your pH balanced?
Here are some simple, but powerful actions:
- Choose breathable underwear.
- Avoid vaginal douching.
- Use gentle skincare products with natural fragrances.
- Prefer an intimate cleanser with a pH-adjusted pH.
- Drink water, relax. Stress also disrupts your gut flora.
- After intercourse or a swim: rinse with clean water, and that's all.
Key takeaways
Your body is unique. Your flora too. And your pH deserves respect.
Jolaine products understand this. They adapt to you. No matter your skin color. Your origin. Your age. Your cycles.
Because good care is first and foremost care that respects you.
Frequently Asked Questions – Vaginal pH and ethnicity
Does vaginal pH change according to ethnicity?
Yes, it changes. It's not a myth. Science says so.
Serious studies have observed clear differences.
In some women, the flora is dominated by lactobacilli. In others, it is more diverse.
This microbiota directly influences pH. And ethnic origin plays a role in this composition.
What pH is considered "normal" for the vagina?
A healthy vaginal pH is generally between 3.8 and 4.5.
In this area, the flora functions well. It protects against microbes and infections.
But if your pH is slightly above, it's not necessarily a problem. It all depends on your flora.
Is having a higher pH bad?
Not always.
A higher pH often means a flora less dominated by lactobacilli.
But that doesn't mean she's unbalanced.
As long as you don't have any symptoms — irritation, abnormal discharge, strong odors — your body is fine.
Do perfumed products disrupt the pH balance?
Yes, and more than you might think.
Synthetic perfumes irritate the mucous membrane.
They alter the flora. They make the vagina more vulnerable.
Even if the smell seems pleasant, the pH suffers.
How to recognize an intimate care product that respects the pH?
Look at the label.
Look for the words: "pH balanced", "hypoallergenic", "fragrance-free".
If the product is dermatologically tested, that's even better.
And if it's formulated for intimate flora, like Jolaine's, you're on the right track.
Are Jolaine products suitable for everyone?
Yes, really.
They were designed for all women.
It doesn't matter what your background, age, or type of flora is.
They respect each person's sensitivity. And they are tested.
In addition, they are made locally, by a woman, here in Quebec.
Should you use an intimate care product every day?
Not necessarily.
Once a day is sufficient.
Some days, just lukewarm water may be enough.
But if you have your period, if you sweat a lot, or after sexual intercourse, a gentle gel can really do you good.
Can regular soap be used on the intimate area?
No.
Body soaps are too harsh.
They disrupt the pH balance, even if they smell nice.
The intimate area needs specific care.
An intimate gel without perfume, with a suitable pH, is what is needed.
What should I do if I have itching or abnormal discharge?
Go back to basics. Use a gentle skincare product, like those from Jolaine.
If it persists after a few days, go see a doctor.
It's best not to let it drag on.
Thank you for reading and for being part of the Jolaine community , where every woman deserves to feel good, beautiful and confident.
Any questions? Write to us: info@jolainecare.com .
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