Your diet plays a big role in your vaginal health. Eating unhealthily can lead to an unbalanced pH level and bacteria down there, but if your diet is rich in healthy foods, they can promote good vaginal health. What you eat can help keep your vagina in top shape by easing cramps, fighting bacterial infections, and alleviating dryness.
Here are some of the best foods to include in your diet to improve the overall health of your vagina!
Plain Yogurt
The vagina has a pH balance between 3.5-4.5 on a scale of zero to 14. Everything from exercise to stress to sex can change the pH of your vagina, but when your vagina is in good health, it can usually maintain its pH balance all by itself. When vaginal pH shifts, the vagina becomes a better environment for bacteria and other organisms to grow, leading to yeast infections and bacterial vaginosis.
Yogurt is a probiotic, meaning it contains live bacteria cultures. The good bacteria in yogurt can help your vagina by balancing acid levels in your vaginal fluids. For the best results, choose yogurt brands that contain live, active cultures such as Lactobacillus.
Ginger
A study in the Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine found that ginger was just as effective as ibuprofen for relieving painful period-related cramps. In the study, women took either 250 milligrams of ginger powder in capsule form or 400 milligrams of ibuprofen four times a day for the first three days of their periods.
Ibuprofen falls into a class of pain meds called non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, or NSAIDs, which fight inflammation, as the name implies. Ginger is well-known for its anti-inflammatory properties, so it may work to quell cramps similarly.
Avocado
In addition to providing potassium, antioxidants, fiber, and a range of key nutrients, the healthful monounsaturated fat in avocado has been shown to help boost levels of hormones associated with vaginal lubrication. Avocado also contains vitamin B6, which has been shown to alleviate PMS symptoms like bloating and fatigue.
It’s important to keep your vagina healthy to avoid overgrowth of bad bacteria. If you find yourself regularly struggling with vaginal itching or discomfort, South Avenue Women’s Services can help you. We are a full-service OBGYN practice with medical professionals who can offer you the compassionate care you deserve.
Give us a call at (585)271-3850 to make an appointment today!