The internet is a valuable tool, providing endless knowledge at our fingertips. One example of its usefulness is solving everyday mysteries, such as why your underwear might have bleach stains. Many people have wondered about this, and the answer has been shared online: it’s not your washing machine causing the stains, but rather your vagina’s natural pH levels.

A healthy vagina has a pH range of 3.8 to 4.5, which is slightly acidic. This acidity can bleach fabric, causing lighter patches on underwear. Dr. Vanessa MacKay from the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists explains that the vagina’s natural secretions help keep it clean, and the good bacteria it contains protect it.

This is a normal, healthy occurrence, and no cause for concern. So, if you notice these spots, it’s simply a sign of your body’s natural processes.