If you find a “bleach” patch on your underwear, here’s what it means


The internet, with its boundless wealth of information, is an incredibly valuable tool for countless reasons. While its benefits seem endless, its role as an inexhaustible source of shared knowledge may well make it one of the most significant inventions of the past few centuries.



There’s virtually no topic you can’t explore or question you can’t answer if you know where to look. Mysteries that might have remained unsolved for decades can now be unraveled with just a few clicks of a mouse or taps on a keyboard. Over time, the internet has debunked long-standing myths and turned once-obscure life hacks and tips into common knowledge, accessible to everyone.

For example, have you ever wondered why your underwear sometimes appears to have bleach-like stains? If so, you’re not alone. Many women have turned to the internet seeking answers to this very question—and they’ve found them. Contrary to some speculation, these discolorations have nothing to do with your washing machine. Instead, they are a natural result of the vagina’s pH levels.

Before diving deeper, let’s emphasize that there’s no cause for concern here. In fact, noticing these spots can actually be a positive sign. As many know, pH levels measure how acidic or alkaline a substance is. 




A helpful tweet once explained: "Just so everyone knows, it’s completely normal for women to find lighter patches in their underwear due to the vagina’s natural acidity, which has a pH range of 3.8 to 4.5. So, let’s put to rest the idea that this is a sign of poor hygiene. In reality, a healthy vagina is one that can naturally bleach fabric.”

Dr. Vanessa MacKay of the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists explains that the vagina has a self-cleaning mechanism supported by beneficial bacteria, which help maintain its health. According to the National Institutes of Health, the typical vaginal pH ranges from 3.8 to 5.0, making it more acidic compared to the neutral pH of 7. This acidity is a key part of the vagina’s natural defense system, keeping it healthy and balanced.

In short, the internet not only provides answers to everyday curiosities but also helps dispel misconceptions, empowering us with knowledge that might otherwise remain hidden.