Maintaining a Healthy Vaginal Microbiome: Tips, Probiotics, and Testing

By now most people are aware of how important the gut microbiome is for our overall health and wellbeing but did you know your vagina also has its own little ecosystem of bacteria that forms part of your overall human microbiome ecosystem?

A healthy vaginal microbiome is so important for a woman's overall health and well-being. The vaginal microbiome is an intricate ecosystem consisting of various bacteria and microorganisms that work together to maintain a balanced and healthy vaginal environment.

So why is it important to make sure you’re balanced and healthy?

1. It helps prevent infections: A healthy vaginal microbiome creates an acidic environment that helps prevent the overgrowth of harmful bacteria and fungi, such as those that cause bacterial vaginosis, yeast infections, and sexually transmitted infections.

2. It promotes reproductive health: A healthy vaginal microbiome is important for fertility because it promotes a healthy cervical mucus environment, influences the quality of the uterine environment, and helps prevent certain types of vaginal infections that can negatively impact fertility.

3. It supports overall health: The vaginal microbiome is connected to the gut microbiome, which plays a crucial role in overall health and well-being. A healthy vaginal microbiome can help maintain a healthy gut microbiome, which is important for digestion, immune function, and mental health.

4. It can impact sexual health: The vaginal microbiome can affect sexual health by influencing sexual arousal, lubrication, and satisfaction. A healthy vaginal microbiome can help prevent discomfort and pain during sex and reduce the risk of sexually transmitted infections.

So you might be thinking, ok Carolyn, this is all well and good, but how do I know if I have a balanced vaginal microbiome and how do I go about trying to improve it?

Vaginal microbiome test

I always test and this is fast becoming one of my favourite tests in clinic. It’s a relatively new tool that allows me to gain a deeper understanding of the bacterial composition of my clients vaginal environment. This test is particularly useful for women who are experiencing recurrent vaginal infections or fertility issues, as it can provide valuable insights into the types and quantities of bacteria present in the vagina. Vaginal microbiome testing is a non-invasive procedure that involves taking a swab of the vaginal fluid, which is then analysed using advanced genetic sequencing technology. The results of the test can help women identify any imbalances or abnormalities in their vaginal microbiome and take steps to correct them.

Treatment

One of the key factors in maintaining a healthy vaginal microbiome is the balance of bacteria within it. Lactobacilli are the most common bacteria found in the vagina, producing lactic acid and maintaining an acidic pH. This acidic environment prevents the overgrowth of harmful bacteria and fungi that can cause infections.

When you are out of balance, and there are opportunistic bacteria, yeast infections or pathogens present, I will use certain antimicrobial herbs to kill them off while simultaneously building your healthy bacteria up. I do this by using specific strains of probiotics and other naturopathic tools and techniques to improve your vaginal health. I will also use a diet protocol to ensure we aren’t feeding the naughty bacteria and adding to your issues.

Probiotics for a Healthy Vaginal Microbiome

Probiotics are beneficial bacteria that can help maintain a healthy vaginal microbiome. Taking probiotic supplements or consuming probiotic-rich foods can help promote a healthy balance of bacteria in the vagina. Probiotics may also be useful in treating common vaginal infections like BV and yeast infections.

One probiotic strain that has been shown to be particularly beneficial for the vaginal microbiome is Lactobacillus crispatus. This strain produces hydrogen peroxide, which can help prevent the overgrowth of harmful bacteria and maintain a healthy pH balance. It’s important to note, choosing the right probiotic and ensuring it’s good enough to actually help isn’t that easy and it will definitely take more than a supermarket off the shelf probiotic to really make a difference.

Things you can do to maintain a healthy balance

Several factors can disrupt the balance of bacteria in the vaginal microbiome, such as antibiotics, hormonal changes, douching, and sexual activity. Practicing good hygiene, avoiding douching, using mild, fragrance-free soaps and detergents, and wearing loose-fitting, breathable clothing can help promote a healthy vaginal environment.

Eating a balanced, healthy diet with plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains is essential for a healthy vaginal microbiome. Probiotic-rich foods like yogurt, kefir, and fermented vegetables can also be beneficial.

Maintaining a healthy vaginal microbiome is essential for women's overall health and well-being. If you experience symptoms like itching, burning, or unusual discharge or you just want to chat about optimising your vaginal health (especially if you are looking to conceive), I recommend booking a consultation with me so we can find out more about whats going on and treat it.

To book a consult, click HERE. And if you would like to book a FREE discovery call to find out if seeing a naturopath is right for you, I would love to chat.