Understanding Keto Crotch: How Long Does It Last?

Keto crotch is a term used to describe a temporary change in vaginal odour in women who are on a ketogenic diet. It is unclear how long it lasts, but some sources claim that it can last anywhere from a few weeks to the duration of a person's time on a low-carb diet. While there is currently no scientific evidence to support the existence of keto crotch, many women have reported experiencing a stronger vaginal odour while on the keto diet. Some doctors suggest that this could be due to changes in vaginal pH caused by the diet, which can lead to bacterial growth, irritation, and infections. However, others argue that it is simply a myth designed to scare people away from the keto diet.

Keto crotch may be caused by a change in vaginal pH

"Keto crotch" is a term used to describe an increase in vaginal discharge and a stronger vaginal odor while following the keto diet. While there is no scientific research confirming that keto crotch is a side effect of the keto diet, many people have reported experiencing these symptoms. A possible explanation for keto crotch may be a change in vaginal pH caused by the diet.

The keto diet is a high-fat, low-carbohydrate, and moderate-protein diet that has become popular for weight loss and the management of certain medical conditions. The diet aims to induce a state of ketosis, where the body burns fat instead of carbohydrates for energy. This process results in the production of ketones, which can lead to side effects such as "keto breath," a fruity or nail polish remover-like odor. Similarly, it is hypothesized that ketones may also accumulate in the vaginal area, leading to keto crotch.

However, a more likely explanation for keto crotch is the impact of the keto diet on vaginal pH. Vaginal pH is a measure of the acidity or alkalinity of the vagina, and a healthy vaginal pH is typically between 3.8 and 4.5, on the acidic side of the spectrum. This acidic environment helps to prevent the growth of certain microorganisms and maintain a healthy vaginal microbiome. Foods such as onions, garlic, red meat, dairy, asparagus, broccoli, alcohol, and fruit can affect vaginal pH.

The keto diet, with its high fat and low carbohydrate composition, may disrupt the natural vaginal pH. An older study from 2007 found that a diet high in fat was associated with a higher vaginal pH of 5.1, which can indicate bacterial vaginosis (BV). BV occurs when the vaginal environment changes, and other bacteria replace the healthy lactobacilli. This change in pH can lead to an overgrowth of bacteria, resulting in an infection with symptoms such as a strong fishy odor and discharge, similar to those reported by people experiencing keto crotch.

While there is no definitive evidence linking the keto diet to keto crotch, maintaining a healthy vaginal pH is crucial for preventing infections and maintaining overall vaginal health. If you are experiencing symptoms of keto crotch or any other unusual vaginal odor, it is important to consult a doctor or gynecologist to determine the underlying cause and receive appropriate treatment.

It could be a result of bacterial vaginosis

While there is no scientific evidence confirming the existence of "keto crotch", it is possible that the symptoms being described by women online are a result of bacterial vaginosis (BV).

Bacterial vaginosis is an infection caused by a change in pH in the vagina. A healthy vaginal pH is between 3.8 and 4.5, and a pH of more than 4.5 may be an indicator of BV. The keto diet, which is high in fat and low in carbohydrates, may cause a high vaginal pH, creating an environment in which BV can occur.

A 2007 study found that participants who consumed a diet high in fat had a vaginal pH of 5.1 on average. The study also suggested that a high-fat diet may increase the risk of bacterial infections related to BV by encouraging the growth of other bacteria. A 2020 review reinforced the links between a high-fat diet and the occurrence of BV, noting that saturated fats may be a significant link.

The symptoms of keto crotch and BV are very similar, including increased vaginal discharge and a strong odour. Other symptoms of BV include burning, itching, or pain in or around the vagina, and a burning feeling when urinating. If you are experiencing these symptoms, it is important to see a doctor as BV can lead to serious health risks, including an increased risk of contracting and transmitting HIV and other STIs, and an increased likelihood of premature birth.

If you are concerned about keto crotch or think you may have BV, it is important to speak to a doctor or gynaecologist. They can examine the vagina for signs of discharge and perform tests on a sample of vaginal fluid to diagnose BV. Treatment for BV may include antibiotics such as clindamycin or metronidazole, which are available as cream, vaginal suppositories, or oral tablets.

It could be a result of an overgrowth of bad bacteria in the vagina

Keto crotch is a term used to describe the increase in vaginal discharge and odour some women experience while following a keto diet. The keto diet is a high-fat, low-carbohydrate eating plan that places the body into a state of ketosis, where fat is burned for energy instead of carbohydrates. While there is currently no scientific research confirming the existence of keto crotch, it is theorised that the diet may alter the pH of the vagina, leading to an overgrowth of bad bacteria and subsequent unpleasant odour.

The vaginal microbiome is largely made up of lactobacilli, a type of bacteria that produces lactic acid to maintain an acidic environment in the vagina. A healthy vaginal pH is between 3.8 and 4.5, and a pH above 4.5 may indicate bacterial vaginosis (BV). BV occurs when the environment in the vagina changes, and other bacteria replace the lactobacilli. This can lead to an overgrowth of bad bacteria, resulting in a strong, fishy odour, as well as other symptoms such as itching, burning, and thin vaginal discharge.

A 2007 study found an association between diets high in fat and saturated fat and more severe cases of BV. As the keto diet consists of consuming large amounts of fat, there may be a link between the diet and BV. However, more research is needed to confirm this connection. It is important to note that vaginal odour and discharge can vary throughout a woman's cycle, and some amount of odour is normal and healthy. Nonetheless, if you experience sudden, unusual, or worrying changes in vaginal odour or discharge, it is recommended to consult a doctor.

It could be caused by an alkaline vaginal pH

The "keto crotch" phenomenon refers to an increase in vaginal discharge and a strong vaginal odor that some women experience while on the keto diet. While there is no scientific research confirming that keto crotch is a side effect of the keto diet, some experts believe that it could be caused by an alkaline vaginal pH.

A healthy vaginal pH is acidic and falls between 3.5 and 4.5 on the pH scale. A pH of more than 4.5 may indicate bacterial vaginosis (BV), which is characterized by a strong fishy odor and discharge. The keto diet, which is high in fat and low in carbohydrates, may cause a high vaginal pH, creating an environment conducive to the growth of "bad" bacteria and increasing the risk of bacterial infections related to BV.

According to Lisa De Fazio, a registered dietitian nutritionist, a high-fat diet can change a person's vaginal pH levels. She explains that a high vaginal pH level, or an alkaline environment, provides the perfect environment for unhealthy bacteria to grow and can put individuals at risk for certain infections. De Fazio recommends that individuals experiencing keto crotch see their OB/GYN for treatment and consider returning to a balanced diet, as extreme changes to the body or pH are not advisable.

Dr. Jessica Shepherd, a minimally invasive gynecologist, also supports the idea that keto crotch could be related to changes in vaginal pH. She states that any diet can change vaginal pH, which can then alter the odor. Additionally, Dr. Anna Cabeca, a menopause and sexual health expert, suggests that not consuming enough alkaline foods while on the keto diet may contribute to keto crotch by throwing off vaginal pH.

To address keto crotch, individuals can try incorporating more alkaline foods into their diet to bring their vaginal pH back down to the ideal acidic range. Leafy greens, non-starchy vegetables like broccoli and cabbage, plant-based fats like avocados and olive oil, and some fruits are examples of alkaline foods. It is also important to avoid douching, as the vagina is self-cleansing, and douching can disrupt the balance of good bacteria, allowing bad bacteria to flourish. If the issue persists or is accompanied by other symptoms, it is recommended to consult a doctor, as it could indicate an infection or other gynecological issue.

It may be caused by a hormonal shift in women

The "keto crotch" phenomenon is not yet backed by scientific evidence, but it is theorised that it may be caused by a hormonal shift in women. The ketogenic diet involves a significant reduction in carbohydrates and an increase in fats, which can impact the hormonal balance in women. This hormonal shift can negatively affect the vaginal microbiome, causing an unusual odour.

The keto diet can cause a spike in the stress hormone, cortisol, which can disrupt the balance of other hormones. This disruption can lead to an array of health issues, including acne, worsened endometriosis or PCOS, and changes in the menstrual cycle. For women in perimenopause or menopause, the increase in cortisol and estrogen could exacerbate symptoms.

Additionally, a high-fat diet can lead to increased estrogen production, which can also impact weight gain. The thyroid, which regulates metabolism, sex drive, concentration, and mood, is suppressed by high levels of estrogen. This suppression can further contribute to weight gain and other health issues.

The keto diet's restriction of complex carbohydrates can also lead to shifts in serotonin levels, progesterone, and insulin metabolism. These changes can cause an increase in insulin levels, which is linked to weight gain.

While the keto diet may offer short-term benefits, the potential hormonal shifts and their consequences should be carefully considered, especially for women with existing health conditions.

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