pH

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pH

pH is a measure of the acid-base balance of whatever substance is being tested.

Vaginal secretions are normally slightly acid (pH <5.0).

In testing for the presence of amniotic fluid (during pregnancy, to rule in/out ruptured membranes), the more basic amniotic fluid will turn nitrazine paper a dark blue, indicating a pH of >6.0, and confirming ruptured membranes.

In testing for the presence of bacterial vaginosis, vaginal infections with anaerobic bacteria are often associated with a pH >5.0.

Normal Values

Source: Operational Medicine 2001, Health Care in Military Settings, NAVMED P-5139, May 1, 2001, Bureau of Medicine and Surgery, Department of the Navy, 2300 E Street NW, Washington, D.C., 20372-5300

This information is provided by The Brookside Associates. The Brookside Associates, LLC. is a private organization, not affiliated with any governmental agency. The opinions presented here are those of the author and do not necessarily represent the opinions of the Brookside Associates or the Department of Defense. The presence of any advertising on these pages does not constitute an endorsement of that product or service by either the US Department of Defense or the Brookside Associates. All material presented here is unclassified.

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