4 vaginal pH tests for at-home use

The vagina is a slightly acidic environment, with a pH of less than 4.5. Higher pH levels allow bacteria and yeasts to thrive, and this can result in bacterial and yeast infections. Vaginal pH tests measure the acidity of the vagina on a scale of 1–14, with lower readings indicating greater acidity. They can help indicate whether vaginal symptoms may be due to an infection that requires treatment. This article describes what a vaginal pH test is and lists some of the best at-home vaginal pH tests available. We also provide information on when to get a vaginal pH test, how to choose the best one, and what to do if vaginal pH levels are outside the normal range. Finally, we answer some FAQs about vaginal pH. Quick links Most discreet: Stix Vaginal pH Test for Yeast Infections Best for regular use: Nutrablast Feminine pH Test Strips Full Range 1–14 Best for pH monitoring: Loyal All My [pH]eels Full Range pH Test Strips Most secure: SEROFlora Feminine pH Test Strips What is a vaginal pH test? A vaginal pH test measures the acidity of the vagina on a scale of 1–14Trusted Source, with lower readings indicating greater acidity. People who experience vaginal symptoms may use a vaginal pH test to help determine whether they have a bacterial or yeast infection. The test involves placing a swab against the wall of the vagina for a specified amount of time. The swab holds a piece of pH paper that changes color. The test kit contains a chart that allows a person to match the color of their test strip with the corresponding color on the chart to determine their vaginal pH. How we chose MNT chooses at-home tests that meet the following criteria: Laboratories: Where possible, MNT will choose companies that process test samples in CLIA-certifiedTrusted Source labs. This means they follow state and federal regulations. Budget: MNT chooses at-home tests that suit a wide range of budgets. Privacy: MNT includes companies that offer robust and transparent privacy measures, such as data protection and discreet packaging. Test result speed: MNT selects companies that inform customers of when they will receive their test results and whether they will receive them via email, app, or phone. Further support: MNT will indicate whether a company offers further support, such as a follow-up phone consultation with a doctor to discuss test results. Best vaginal pH tests Please note that the writer of this article has not tried these products. All information presented is purely research-based and correct at the time of publication. Medical News Today follows a strict product selection and vetting process. Learn more here. Most discreet: Stix Vaginal pH Test for Yeast Infections Cost: $11 for two tests Stix is a company that manufactures tests for the following uses: measuring vaginal pH levels detecting urinary tract infections detecting pregnancy understanding other women’s health issues Stix Vaginal pH Test for Yeast Infections is a discrete vaginal pH testing kit. The website states that the test delivers results in 2 minutes. The kit includes easy-to-follow instructions. Stix offers a subscription service for regular test delivery. Despite company claims, the test cannot tell a person whether they have a yeast infection. However, it can indicate whether a person should book an appointment with their doctor.