213k views
5 votes
What is the typical pH range of the skin and vagina, which contributes to their inhibitory effect on microbes as part of the first line of defense?

A. pH 1-2
B. pH 4-6
C. pH 7-8
D. pH 3-5

User Austyns
by
7.3k points

1 Answer

2 votes

Final answer:

The typical pH range of the skin and vagina, which is part of the first line of defense against microbes, is between 3 and 5, with the acidic environment inhibiting the growth of many pathogens.

Step-by-step explanation:

The typical pH range of the skin is slightly acidic to maintain a microbe-inhibitory environment. This acidic environment is not conducive to many bacteria and fungi that might otherwise thrive on the skin and cause infection. In the vagina, a particularly acidic environment is maintained by the predominant Lactobacillus species, which produce lactic acid and ensure a pH below 4.5.

This inhibits the growth of pathogens and contributes to the vagina's role as a self-cleansing organ. Considering the provided information, the correct answer for the typical pH range of skin and vagina as part of the first line of defense is D. pH 3-5.

User Nishan Hitang
by
7.6k points