There are countless reasons why the internet, with its vast pool of knowledge, is such a valuable tool. While it offers endless benefits in our daily lives, its greatest strength may be its role as a never-ending source of shared information. If you know where to look, you can find answers to almost any question — even solutions to problems that might’ve remained mysteries for decades. With just a few clicks and keystrokes, what was once unknown can quickly become clear.

In the same way life hacks and once-elite knowledge have become mainstream, many long-held myths have been debunked online. For example, have you ever wondered why your  underwear sometimes has strange bleach-like stains? You’re not alone — many women have taken to the internet with the same question, and the shared experiences have led to surprising explanations.

And they found answers. It turns out, contrary to what some might’ve believed, those discoloration patches have nothing to do with your  laundry detergent — or your computer, for that matter.

According to health experts, the real cause is the vagina’s natural pH levels. The vagina is slightly acidic by nature, and this acidity can sometimes react with the dye in underwear fabric, leading to those familiar “bleach” spots.

Let’s emphasize once again: there’s absolutely no reason for concern if you notice those bleach-like spots on your underwear. In fact, it can actually be a positive sign. These marks are often a result of the vagina’s natural pH levels — not poor hygiene.

As many know, a substance’s pH level indicates how acidic or alkaline it is. In the case of the vagina, it typically has a pH between 3.8 and 4.5, making it mildly acidic. One viral tweet put it well:

“It’s completely normal to find lighter patches in a woman’s underwear due to the acidic nature of the vagina. So, let’s drop the idea that it’s caused by poor hygiene. A healthy vagina can literally bleach fabric.”

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Dr. Vanessa MacKay of the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists explains that the vagina has a self-cleaning system supported by beneficial bacteria. This natural discharge helps maintain vaginal health and prevents infections.

According to the National Institutes of Health, the vagina’s pH typically ranges from 3.8 to 5.0, which is acidic compared to the neutral pH of 7. Dr. MacKay also notes, “Disturbing the natural balance can lead to infections, but it’s perfectly normal and healthy for women to have clear or white discharge from their vagina.”