The vaginal microbiome 101
Most of us have heard about the gut microbiome - really, it's usually the first thing we associate the word 'microbiome' with. But did you know that the vagina has an equally fascinating and too often overlooked microbiome?
Let’s start with what a ‘microbiome’ actually is: a community of various microorganisms including bacteria, fungi, and viruses, that naturally live in and on our bodies. Microbiomes get a lot of attention because they play a huge role in health and disease and in fact, so many parts of our bodies have their own microbiomes including the skin, bladder, mouth, uterus, and even our eyeballs! So what makes the vaginal microbiome so interesting?
The bacteria housed within the vagina regulate the pH - the measure of acidity versus alkalinity - of the vagina. Unlike other areas of the body, the vagina requires an acidic pH, generally between 3.6 and 4.5. And unlike the gut microbiome where microbial diversity is a measure of gut health, the vagina likes low microbial diversity and is dominated by Lactobacillus species. These Lactobacillus bacteria maintain the health of the vagina by producing various substances such as lactic acid, hydrogen peroxide and bacteriocins. These substances are protective in many areas of gynaecological health outcomes. For example, they support local immune responses within the vagina and can prevent or inhibit the growth of potentially harmful microbes including candida species (thrush), sexually transmitted infections, and bacteria associated with bacterial vaginosis. A healthy vaginal microbiome is also associated with positive fertility outcomes, reduced complications throughout pregnancy, reduced miscarriage risk, reduced instances of preterm birth, improved IVF outcomes, reduced risk of urinary tract infections, post-menopausal health, and reduced risk of some gynaecological cancers.
Interestingly, the vaginal microbiome changes significantly over the lifespan - in fact, even over the course of a menstrual cycle - in response to hormonal shifts. Oestrogen is a key player in both positive and negative aspects of vaginal health whereby it promotes the growth the Lactobacillus species, supports the cells of the vagina where microbes lives, and stimulates the production of mucous and glycogen which feed microbes (good ones and bad ones).
So what are some signs your vaginal microbiome may need tending to?
Recurrent infections such as thrush, bacterial vaginosis, and urinary tract infections
Persistent itch, irritation, inflammation, or pain
Vaginal dryness, including after menopause
Symptoms or infections which flare up at specific times throughout your menstrual cycle
Changes in the colour, odour, or consistency of vaginal discharge
Pain or discomfort during sex
And what are some things you can do at home to promote overall vaginal health?
Wear breathable fabrics such as organic cotton and bamboo
Don’t use soaps, washes, or douches – you only need to use water!
Avoid glycerine in condoms and lubricants
Stay hydrated
Eat a balanced diet with a focus on vegetables and fruits, healthy proteins and fats, and complex carbohydrates
Don’t smoke
