In a viral social media post, Azie Dungey (@aziedee) humorously quipped about the cost-benefit analysis of dating: “Me halfway through a date: Welp, this man is not worth disturbing my pH balance.”[1] While her post was lighthearted, it sheds light on a serious topic—how intimate relationships impact health, particularly from a biological and psychological standpoint. Many individuals, particularly women, experience tangible health benefits from maintaining monogamous relationships. These benefits include the preservation of vaginal health, reduced risks of sexually transmitted infections (STIs), improved emotional well-being, and overall stability in one’s life. This essay explores the scientific basis for these benefits, the impact of sexual activity on vaginal pH balance, and how they align with societal shifts in dating culture.

The Link Between Sexual Activity and Vaginal pH Balance

Sexual activity, particularly unprotected penetrative sex, can affect vaginal health by disrupting the pH balance, increasing the risk of infections such as bacterial vaginosis (BV), yeast infections, and urinary tract infections (UTIs). A healthy vaginal pH ranges between 3.8 and 4.5, with a more acidic environment preventing the overgrowth of harmful bacteria. However, multiple factors can influence this balance, including:

1. Microbial Transfer: Sexual activity introduces new bacteria from partners, which can disrupt the vaginal microbiome. Women with multiple partners or same-sex partners have a higher risk of BV.[2]
2. Bacterial Movement: Friction during sex allows bacteria like E. coli to move from the anus to the urethra, increasing the chance of UTIs.[3]
3. Semen’s pH Effect: Semen has a higher pH (7.2–8.0), which can make the vagina less acidic, fostering harmful bacterial growth.[4]

The Psychological and Biological Benefits of Monogamy

1. Maintaining Vaginal Health

The phrase “disturbing my pH balance” humorously alludes to the impact that sexual activity can have on vaginal microbiota. Women in long-term monogamous relationships tend to have more stable vaginal microbiomes, reducing recurrent infections and irritation. Monogamy minimizes exposure to new bacteria, reducing the likelihood of pH imbalances and subsequent infections.[5]

2. Lower Risk of Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs)

STIs remain a major health concern, with conditions such as chlamydia, gonorrhea, syphilis, and HPV presenting significant risks. Engaging in monogamous relationships, particularly when both partners have tested negative for STIs, greatly reduces the probability of contracting infections.[6] Even with condom use, there is still some level of exposure to skin-to-skin transmitted infections, reinforcing the argument that monogamy provides a protective health benefit.[7]

3. Hormonal Regulation and Stress Reduction

Sexual activity triggers the release of oxytocin, dopamine, and endorphins, hormones responsible for pleasure, bonding, and stress relief. However, studies show that frequent partner changes can lead to fluctuations in emotional bonding, potentially causing higher stress and anxiety.[8] Individuals in stable, monogamous relationships often report more satisfying sexual experiences due to increased emotional security, trust, and consistency.[9]

Can a Vaginal Infection Be a Sign of Infidelity?

A common concern among individuals in committed relationships is whether a sudden vaginal pH imbalance or infection indicates infidelity. While sexual activity can influence vaginal health, pH imbalances are not necessarily a sign of cheating. Other factors such as hygiene, contraceptive use, pregnancy, and menopause can all contribute to pH disruption.[10]

However, introducing new sexual partners can alter the vaginal microbiome, and frequent partner changes may increase the likelihood of infections. Therefore, maintaining a monogamous relationship reduces the risk of bacterial disruptions and maintains vaginal health.[11]

Signs of a Disrupted Vaginal pH

• Bacterial Vaginosis (BV): Gray or white discharge, fishy odor (worse after sex), itching, burning.
• Yeast Infection: Thick, white discharge (cottage cheese-like), itching, swelling, redness.

How to Maintain a Healthy Vaginal Microbiome

• Practice Safe Sex: Use condoms to prevent semen from altering vaginal pH.
• Hygiene & Care: Wash hands, sex toys, and avoid cross-contamination.
• Pee/Shower After Sex: Helps flush out harmful bacteria.
• Take Probiotics: Supports Lactobacillus growth for microbiome balance.
• Wear Breathable Cotton Underwear: Reduces irritation and moisture buildup.
• Get Regular STI Tests: Detects asymptomatic infections that can disrupt vaginal health.

Societal and Cultural Context of Monogamy

1. The Evolutionary Perspective

Historically, human relationships have evolved to favor monogamous structures for both survival and societal stability. While not universal across all cultures, monogamy has been the dominant relationship model in many societies due to its advantages in child-rearing, resource-sharing, and emotional stability.[12]

In recent years, the rise of dating apps and hookup culture has challenged traditional monogamous relationships. However, data suggests that despite the prevalence of casual dating, many individuals still seek the stability of monogamous partnerships for emotional and health reasons.[13]

2. The Role of Monogamy in Personal Growth

Beyond physical health, monogamy allows individuals to cultivate deeper emotional intelligence, communication skills, and conflict-resolution abilities. In contrast to short-term relationships that may prioritize physical attraction, monogamous partnerships require long-term investment in mutual understanding, growth, and emotional support.[14]

Conclusion

Azie Dungey’s viral post humorously highlights a critical consideration in modern dating—prioritizing one’s health and well-being in romantic relationships. While the phrase “not worth disturbing my pH balance” is meant as a joke, it underscores real biological and psychological benefits associated with monogamy. Maintaining vaginal health, reducing the risk of STIs, and experiencing emotional stability are all compelling reasons why many people choose monogamous relationships. As dating culture evolves, individuals must continue to weigh these factors in their personal choices, ensuring that their relationships align with both their health priorities and emotional needs.

[1] Dungey, Azie (@aziedee). Threads Post, January 2025. Retrieved from Threads.net

[2] Ravel, J., et al. “Vaginal microbiome of reproductive-age women.” Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, 2011.

[3] Brotman, R. M. “Vaginal microbiome and sexually transmitted infections.” Current Opinion in Infectious Diseases, 2011.

[4] Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). “Sexually Transmitted Infections Report, 2019.”

[5] Workowski, K. A., & Bolan, G. A. “Sexually transmitted diseases treatment guidelines, 2015.” Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report, 2015.

[6] Fisher, H. “The drive to love: The neural mechanism for mate choice.” Journal of Comparative Neurology, 2000.

[7] Gottman, J. “The Seven Principles for Making Marriage Work.” Three Rivers Press, 1999.