Everything You Need To Know About Your Vaginal Mircobiome
Your vagina is a wonderland! And not just because of the pleasure you enjoy during sex or the miracle of birthing children. Your vagina is also the home to a complex microscopic world called the vaginal microbiome, and it remains one of the least understood areas of the female body*.
Most women understand that for optimal well-being it’s necessary to drink plenty of water, eat a healthy diet, exercise and get eight hours of sleep. But when it comes to understanding vaginal health and what you can do to support it, most women know very little. It’s just one of those topics that can make you feel awkward. And if you are having a problem in that area, you may even feel embarrassed or ashamed to talk about it.
But there is no need to be. You are not alone. According to the CDC, there are an estimated 1.4 million outpatient visits for vaginal infections annually*.
The more you understand what’s going on inside your body, the easier it is to support your vaginal health and to recognize when it’s time to seek medical attention. So in today's blog, we're going to go there and talk about the vaginal microbiome.
So what is a vaginal microbiome?
Your entire body is the host to many microscopic worlds called microbiomes. Microbiomes exist on your skin, in your mouth, nose, lungs, and the digestive system just to name a few. And if you're a woman, you guessed it, your vagina is also host to a world of microscopic flora.
The vaginal microbiome is a complex, symbiotic system of microbes containing bacteria, viruses, and fungi. It’s not as bad as it sounds. All these microscopic organisms actually help to keep your body healthy. Take the bacteria called lactobacillus for example.
Lactobacillus makes up the majority of good bacteria present in the vagina and they work hard to keep it healthy. The lactobacillus produces lactic acid and hydrogen peroxide which keeps the pH level of the vagina low, or acidic, thereby prohibiting an overgrowth of unwanted fungus such as yeast. Amazing, right?
So when there’s a proper balance of all the bacteria, you don’t give any thought to what’s going on down there. But the moment there is an imbalance of lactobacillus, you know it!
Have you ever had a yeast infection?
This is due to an overgrowth of a fungus, typically candida albicans. Something disrupted the delicate balance. Your natural pH levels become elevated. Now the vaginal microbiome becomes overrun with anaerobic microorganisms which can cause a host of symptoms ranging from irritation to infection.
It’s times like this that mother nature could use a little help.
Bacterial Vaginosis vs. Aerobic Vaginitis
The two most common vaginal conditions we treat women for are bacterial vaginosis and aerobic vaginitis. While symptoms can be similar they are two different conditions and require two different approaches. Before you head to the store to buy an over the counter antifungal remedy, you need to know you are treating the right condition. While antifungal suppositories will help vaginitis, it will not help vaginosis.
What’s the difference? Let’s take a look.
Aerobic vaginitis (AV), commonly referred to as a yeast infection, can cause the following symptoms:
Vaginal itching
Yellow to greenish colored discharge
Bright red vaginal mucosa, and you may have small ulcer like sores
Inflammation, swelling
Burning/stinging pain when having intercourse (known as dyspareunia)
This type of infection is treatable with antimicrobials that may be purchased over the counter. Local antibiotics and local estrogens are additional treatment options*. If you have any of these symptoms, consult with your doctor for a treatment plan that’s right for you.
Bacterial vaginosis (BV) has very similar traits as a yeast infection but they are not the same condition. Bacterial vaginosis presents these symptoms:
Vaginal itching
White or grayish discharge
Burning sensation when urinating
Fishy odor
Treatment typically consists of antibiotics or vaginal estrogen creams*. Again, you need to consult with your physician for proper diagnosis and treatment if you have any of these symptoms.
What Causes of Vaginal Microbiota Imbalance?
Any microbiome can be disrupted when new bacteria are introduced. The vaginal microbiome can be affected by such things as illness, use of antibiotics, stress, or natural changes in your hormone levels. It’s also affected by sexual intercourse or changing sexual partners as the introduction of their bacteria and semen, which is alkaline, will have an impact on the vaginas acidic pH levels*.
Other things that cause an imbalance of the vaginal microbiota may surprise you. Mainly because you were told that these things were good for you by companies that make feminine hygiene products. And you know large companies and corporations are concerned with their profit margins, not your health.
Douching – Douching presents an opportunity for foreign bacteria to enter the vagina*. Flushing out the delicate balance of vaginal flora and acidity can cause an overgrowth of harmful bacteria which in turn can lead to BV or AV.
Scented Powders – Avoid powders. Powders contain talc which has been linked to ovarian cancer. Some, but not all, talc contains asbestos.
Perfumed Soaps or Gels – Perfumes contain all manner of ingredients, most of which are irritants at best, toxic at worst. If you want to fight vaginal odor, simply practice good daily hygiene and wash gently with warm water and a mild soap.
Jade Eggs – Supposed benefits like better sex, and maintaing balance of your menstrual cycle have never been proven*. What has been proven however, is the porous nature of jade. That means microorganisms can penetrate the stone and the jade egg then becomes a breeding ground for bacteria possibly leading to BV or AV.
Then there is vaginal steaming, cleansing cloths and vaginal sprays that you truly do not need to use.
It’s been said that the vagina is like a self cleaning oven. And while that may make you laugh, it’s truly a great comparison because the vagina does an amazing job maintaining its microbiome all by itself. It cleans and cares for itself naturally. It creates its own mucous that washes away menstrual blood, semen and vaginal discharge maintaining its healthy balance of flora.
How to Support Vaginal Health
While your system is capable of taking care of itself, there are times when your body needs some help. Here are some things for you to keep in mind.
If you are using any of the intrusive methods listed above as part of your personal hygiene, stop. Simple warm water washes with a mild soap are all you need. Mother nature will take care of the rest.
If you are sexually active, be sure your partner is using a condom. Unless you are trying to conceive, of course!
Wear cotton underwear and lose fitting pants so the vaginal area remains dry. Also avoid wearing tight fitting leggings, athleticwear or nylons for long periods of time. They are made of synthetic fabrics which retain sweat and moisture.
If you are experiencing any symptoms, or just have questions, talk to your doctor. Don’t put it off as conditions may worsen if left untreated.
Your Vagina Is A Wonderland!
It’s true. From the microscopic level to the joys of sex to the birthing of human beings. Your vagina is a wonderland. And while you may still feel awkward discussing your vaginal health with a healthcare professional, know that we understand. Discussing vaginal health is about as personal as it can get.
And remember, we are women, too. You are safe with us. So go ahead and speak up! Ask all your questions. Helping you understand your body and how to take care of it is our job.
Contact us today for an appointment. We are here to help you. (and let us know you read this blog!)
What has your experience been like when dealing with a vaginal health issue? Please share your comments with us below.
RESOURCES
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