Concentrations of sodium potassium magnesium and calcium in vaginal fluid

Flame photometric determinations of sodium potassium calcium and magnesium concentrations according to a complexometric method were investigated in 197 healthy non pregnant women ages 16-46 years. Both the serum and vaginal fluid were studied. The concentrations of K+ Ca++ and Mg++ in vaginal fluid showed marked increases several times greater than those in serum. The sodium concentration of the vaginal fluid is 1/2 that of serum. The concentration of magnesium in vaginal fluid showed a significant increase of 1/4 in comparison with serum after application of hormonal contraceptives. The origin of the vaginal fluid is also discussed. (authors modified) (summaries in GER ENG)