the vaginal microbiome
The vaginal microbiome refers to the microorganisms that colonise in the vagina.
Just like the gut microbome, the bacteria that live here are responsible for good health. When in balance there is plenty of lactobacilli species bacteria, which produces beneficial lactic acid. This lactic acid lowers the vaginal pH to below 4.5 (making it more acidic), which inhibits the growth of opportunistic or bad bacteria. Pretty clever, right?
When there is an imbalance this allows the bad guys to grow and proliferate eg E coli, Candida albicans and Gardnerella . This ‘dysbiosis’ is responsible for a number of different issues that women experience.
So what types of issues does this create, and what causes this imbalance in the first place?
Vaginal dysbiosis symptoms
Frequent UTI’s
Burning
Itching
Thrush
BV or Bacterial Vaginosis
Vaginal odour & unusual discharge
Painful intercourse
Vaginitis
STI’s such as HPV, Gonorrhoea, Chlamydia, HIV
What causes vaginal dysbiosis?
Antibiotics - while essential for some infections, antibiotics also affect beneficial bacteria
Stress - lowers our immunity
Poor immunity - our body is less able to fight off pathogens
Hormonal changes - oestrogen supports lactobacilli production, when oestrogen lowers so too does lactobacilli
Poor diet - poor food choices can feed opportunistic bacteria
Smoking
Using tampons or menstrual cups can disrupt the vaginal microbiome
Sexual practices - BV can be transmitted between partners, make sure to treat both parties if this occurs.
Vaginal self care
There are lots of things you can do to keep your vagina healthy, and support your vaginal microbiome. These include:
Always urinate after sex - this will flush out any opportunistic bacterias
Always wipe from front to back - this prevents transmission of pathogens
Use natural or chemical free soaps, laundry detergents & toilet paper
Wear breathable underwear like organic cotton or bamboo
Avoid douching
If you have a current infection, abstain from sex or use a condom. Also make sure your partner is tested/treated too
Include fermented foods to help your good bacteria thrive, sauerkraut, yoghurt, kimchi, miso, tempeh
Pre-biotic food are also beneficial - oats, garlic, asparagus, dandelion greens, apples, onions, leeks
Drink PLENTY of water to help protect from UTI’s, at least 8 glasses per day. Cranberry juice may prevent utils (non sweetened)
Keep your immune system strong by eating Vitamin C rich foods like citrus, capsicum, strawberries, broccoli, and ensure your Vitamin D levels are adequate. Sun safe exposure or supplementation may be required - check with your naturopath.
Specific strains of probiotics are beneficial for your vaginal microbiome, again, seek your naturopath’s advice for the right product.
What to do if you think there is something going on with your vagina.
If you’re experiencing some unusual symptoms that you don’t normally have, it might be a sign that there is an imbalance of bacteria or ‘dysbiosis’. It is important to have this assessed as soon as you are able to. Your GP or naturopath are both able to request testing to work out what is going on, and appropriate treatment can be chosen.
If you decide to take antibiotics, your naturopath can work alongside to further support your immune system and prescribe probiotics or ‘good bacteria’ to bring back balance to your vaginal microbiome.
One final note, if you do experience dysbiosis please note this has nothing to do with cleanliness. There is nothing to be ashamed of; most issues can be resolved very quickly.
Please feel free to book in to see me with any concerns you may be having. I offer a safe, judgement free space, where you can feel comfortable and feel heard.
Bron x
