While most people have heard of eating pineapple before intimacy and the sweetening effects it may have, there are other pointers worth remembering. The taste and scent of your vagina depends on various things, among them is daily routines and diet. The right habits may not only make for a better-taste, but also contribute to vaginal health. There is nothing better than being confident during oral intimacy while also improving how you approach sexual and overall wellness. 

For the most accurate advice for those curious about tasting sweeter, an expert’s opinion is always best. Dr. Katina Kennedy is a Psychiatric and Family Nurse Practitioner who specializes in primary care, mental health, gynecology, and sexual health. This is what Dr. Kennedy has to say about tasting better. 

What An Expert Wants You to Know About Tasting Better and Vaginal Health

21Ninety: What are the foods (other than pineapple) that may support vaginal pH and promote a pleasant taste?

Katina Kennedy: The vagina is a sensitive area. It is also self-cleansing. There are foods that can help support the vaginal flora and those that can alter the pH causing an unpleasant taste. Foods that support the vaginal pH and support a pleasant taste during oral sex are water, zero-sugar natural yogurt, celery, cinnamon, cranberries, oranges, and grapefruit. These foods such as celery help to detox the body. Additionally, because the vagina is acidic, they neutralize the acidic taste.

21N: What disrupts and throws off the vagina’s natural pH?

KK: Certain foods that are high in sugar and preservatives, dairy, fish, red meats, garlic, and onions can disrupt the vaginal pH. Smoking can also disrupt the pH. Additionally, using scented soap, lubricants, condoms, toilet tissue, laundry detergent, panty liners, and sanitary napkins. The rule of thumb is if it smells good it’s not good for the vagina as it can alter the vaginal pH. Wearing panties that are not cotton such as satin, lace, and thongs can hold moisture and heat and can alter the vaginal pH.

21N: What are some things to consider during intimacy?

KK: Dirty nails holding bacteria can alter the pH too. Using a finger condom is advised when engaging in genital finger play. 

Spit can disrupt the vaginal pH. Using all-natural personal lubrication such as my Sextivia lubricant can help increase lubrication instead of using spit. Having sex with an un-clean and uncircumcised penis can also alter the pH because it holds bacteria and yeast under the foreskin. In this sense, personal care is essential.

We naturally have yeast in our mouth but when there is an overgrowth of yeast on the tongue (i.e. a severely white-coated tongue) yeast can be transferred triggering a yeast infection. Using a dental dam can help prevent infections.

21N: What is the safest way to clean without disrupting the natural pH?

KK: I’d advise the use of unscented soap. Using plain water is okay if you do not have much hair. If you have hair you may want to use unscented soap to help rid the musky smell. Cleanse the outer and inner labias thoroughly, wear cotton underwear, keep the genital area cool and dry, and do not douche. Above all, eat healthy and drink your water. A reminder that if you have a large amount of normal discharge it is okay. The vagina is self-cleansing and it’s doing its job.

This article has been edited and condensed for length and clarity.