When the pH in the vagina becomes unbalanced, women may notice differences, such as an unusual odor or an increase in discharge, which could indicate a lower vaginal pH. So, how can women keep their vaginas clean and prevent gynecological infections? Below are 8 foods that can boost fertility, improve lubrication, and maintain a balanced vaginal pH.
A balanced vaginal pH typically ranges between 3.8 to 4.5. Prolonged pH imbalance allows harmful bacteria to thrive, leading to discomfort. However, this doesn’t mean you need to check your pH daily. Instead, consult a gynecologist if you experience abnormal symptoms like bacterial vaginosis for early diagnosis and treatment.
The good news? Your vagina is pretty good at protecting and cleaning itself, though. Proper vaginal care, such as good hygiene, safer sex practices, and regular gynecological visits, all play a role in keeping your pH in check.
Below are 8 foods that can boost fertility, improve lubrication, and maintain a balanced vaginal pH.
1. Cranberries: Preventing Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs)
We've all heard or followed common advice: drink cranberry juice to treat a UTI. But is there any evidence to support it?
Cranberries, either fresh or as 100% pure juice, are rich in antioxidants, vitamin C, and vitamin E, which enhance immunity. Their acidic compounds are powerful infection fighters. Studies suggest cranberries are especially effective in preventing UTIs in women with recurrent infections.
Pro Tip: Opt for pure cranberry juice without added sugars or artificial sweeteners. Store-bought sugary juices may worsen conditions rather than improving them.
2. Sweet Potatoes: Enhancing Fertility
Potatoes are rich in nutrients and have special benefits for women who want to get pregnant.
Potatoes include beta carotene and vitamin A, which serve to build and maintain the vaginal walls and keep the uterus healthy. These nutrients have been shown to have a direct impact on fertility.
These nutrients are also vital for hormone production and are often recommended for women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).
Kickstart your day with mashed sweet potato recipes or healthy sweet potato toast for energy and provide an ample dose of vitamin A.
3. Probiotic-Rich Foods: Balancing Vaginal pH
Probiotics, found in fermented foods like kimchi and yogurt, are excellent for both gut and vaginal health. They help balance vaginal pH and prevent infections (vaginosis) such as yeast infections and UTIs
4. Plant-Based Fats: Improving Lubrication and Libido
Omega-3 fatty acids enhance blood circulation, which promotes sexual desire. These necessary fatty acids, as well as other fatty acids contained in sea buckthorn oil, such as palmitoleic, linoleic, oleic, and palmitic, improve vaginal dryness, particularly in postmenopausal women, as shown in a 2014 study.
Additionally, fish oil supplements can alleviate menstrual cramps, making periods more manageable.
Pro tip: Find these essential fatty acids in oily fish (such as salmon), flaxseed, eggs, walnuts, and more.
5. Apples: Keeping the Vagina Healthy
Apples contain phytoestrogen phloridzin and antioxidants, which promote blood flow to the vagina and enhance sexual function. They also help moisturize and lubricate the vagina, improving sexual satisfaction and even increasing orgasm frequency.
According to research, eating two or more servings of citrus fruits daily may lower the risk of uterine fibroids.
6. Soy Products: Supporting Estrogen Levels
Soy contains phytoestrogens — compounds that mimic estrogen in the body — that can promote overall vaginal health, especially in people with reduced estrogen levels. There are many reasons for decreased estrogen levels in the body, from medications to menopause. But one of the major symptoms of low estrogen is vaginal dryness.
Pro tip: Include in your diet such as Tofu, soy milk, and other soy products.
7. Avocado: Boosting Libido and Lubrication
Avocados are rich in healthy fats, vitamin B6, and potassium, all of which can positively affect your overall libido and natural lubrication. These nutrients enhance vaginal lubrication, strengthen vaginal walls, and may even improve IVF (In vitro fertilization is the most effective type of fertility treatment that involves the handling of eggs or embryos and sperm) success.
Daily dose: Enjoy avocados in smoothies to reap these benefits.
8. Dark Leafy Greens: Reducing Vaginal Dryness
Leafy greens contribute to improved vaginal health due to their rich nutrient content, including dietary nitrates. Nitrates act as vasodilators, which help widen blood vessels and enhance blood flow throughout the body, including the vaginal area. This increased blood circulation can alleviate vaginal dryness and potentially boost libido.
These greens are also rich in vitamin E, magnesium, and calcium, which benefit muscle health — including vaginal muscles.
Health tip: Consume plenty of vegetables to increase fiber intake and support vaginal health. Incorporate nutrient-rich options like kale, collard greens, spinach, and mustard greens into your diet for optimal benefits.
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Reference source: healthline.com
