Why Your Underwear Might Have “Bleach” Stains — And What It Really Means
Ever noticed pale or discolored patches on your underwear and wondered if your laundry detergent is to blame? The truth might surprise you — the real reason behind those light stains has nothing to do with bleach or harsh chemicals.
According to experts, these marks are actually caused by your body’s natural chemistry. More specifically, it’s the acidity of vaginal discharge that leads to this unexpected fading.
The vagina maintains a healthy pH level between 3.8 and 4.5, which is slightly acidic. This acidity helps the body stay balanced and clean by supporting the growth of good bacteria. But here’s the interesting part — that same acidity can also interact with fabric, subtly bleaching it over time.
Dr. Vanessa MacKay of the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists emphasizes that this is completely normal. Vaginal secretions play an important role in maintaining hygiene and health, and the presence of those faint marks is just evidence of your body doing its job.
So next time you spot a light patch on your underwear, don’t panic. It’s not a laundry mishap or anything to be embarrassed about — it’s simply your body taking care of itself.