Acceptability and effectivity of four feminine wash products in maintaining the physiologic vaginal pH of reproductive and menopausal age women

ABSTRACT

@#<p><strong>OBJECTIVE:</strong> To determine whether four (4) feminine hygiene wash products maintain normal vaginal pH and are acceptable among reproductive and menopausal age women.</p><p><strong>METHODS:</strong> A randomized, double blind, three-period, three-way crossover trial on 90 reproductive age women and 30 menopausal women measuring external and internal vaginal pH levels and product acceptability after using different feminine wash for 3 weeks.</p><p><strong>RESULTS:</strong> There were significant differences in mean change in internal vaginal pH values among the three feminine wash products (p=0.0392) in the reproductive age group. Majority of the subjects expressed 'extreme satisfaction' on the different features of the products. In the menopausal age group, there was a statistically significant difference in mean pH change in the external genitalia (p=0.0279). Feminine Wash 4 appeared to be most acceptable.</p><p><strong>CONCLUSION:</strong> Using feminine wash may help maintain vaginal pH levels within the physiologic range thus prevents vaginal infections. Good acceptability of use among the subjects implies good compliance and therefore, a practice that can be adopted on a long-term basis as part of a woman's good hygienic practice.</p>