The vaginal microbiome – A hidden key to women's intimate health
We have talked a lot about vaginal health here at VagiVital, but a topic that rarely gets the attention it deserves is the vaginal microbiome. Just like in the gut, we have a complex network of microorganisms in the vagina that plays a crucial role in our immune defense, our well-being, and our intimate balance. But what exactly is the vaginal microbiome and why is it so important?
WHAT IS THE VAGINAL MICROBIOME?
The vaginal microbiome is a unique part of our bodily ecosystem – a "private room" that differs from other parts of the body. What is special about the microbiome in the vagina is that it consists of a relatively small number of different types of bacteria, most of which belong to the Lactobacillus group. These little "soldiers" have the task of maintaining a low pH value, producing lactic acid, and protecting against infections by creating an acidic environment that counteracts the growth of harmful bacteria. Research shows that a healthy vaginal pH is between 3.8 and 4.2, which is crucial for keeping the vagina protected and balanced.
What is even more fascinating is that this microbiome begins to develop already in newborn girls, and before the first menstruation, the bacterial composition already resembles that of an adult woman.
THE ROLE OF THE MICROBIOME IN OUR IMMUNE DEFENSE
The microbiome in the vagina is one of the body's first lines of defense. By maintaining an acidic environment, Lactobacillus bacteria create the conditions for what we call the "vagina's natural defense." They not only produce lactic acid but also small amounts of hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), which has a direct inhibitory effect on harmful microorganisms. This defense mechanism protects us not only against common infections such as bacterial vaginosis and yeast infections but also more serious diseases like HIV, gonorrhea, and chlamydia.
When the microbiome loses balance – for example due to antibiotics, hormonal changes, or excessive use of soaps and intimate products – a so-called dysbiosis can occur. This means that harmful bacteria gain the upper hand, which can lead to irritation, discomfort, and a weakened barrier against other infections. A common consequence of this is bacterial vaginosis, characterized by foul-smelling discharge, irritation, and an elevated pH level. In bacterial vaginosis, the amount of Lactobacillus has decreased significantly, allowing other bacteria, such as Gardnerella vaginalis, to grow and further disrupt the balance.
HOW TO GET RID OF BACTERIAL VAGINOSIS
Vernivia Vaginal Mousse by VagiVital is an antibiotic-free treatment for bacterial vaginosis that restores balance in the vagina in just 7 days and relieves foul-smelling discharge within 12 hours. By mimicking the vagina's own immune defense, Vernivia creates an optimal environment and restores balance 🙌
Buy Vernivia here and get quick relief from foul-smelling discharge.
THE IMPACT OF HORMONES ON THE MICROBIOME
Hormones play an important role in regulating the composition of our vaginal microbiome. Estrogen, for example, stimulates the growth of Lactobacillus by increasing the production of glycogen, which serves as nourishment for these good bacteria. This is also why the vagina is extra sensitive during menopause, when decreased estrogen levels lead to fewer Lactobacillus bacteria and an increased vaginal pH. This can cause both irritation, fragile mucous membranes, and a greater risk of recurring infections.
During pregnancy, the opposite happens: estrogen levels increase and the growth of Lactobacillus thrives, further strengthening protection. Hormones are therefore an important factor to consider when we talk about vaginal health.
WHAT AFFECTS THE VAGINAL MICROBIOME?
Among the external factors that can disrupt the balance are excessive use of intimate soap, unprotected sex, and even certain contraceptives. Research also points to genetic factors playing a role. Women in different parts of the world have different types of vaginal flora, suggesting that our microbiome is as individual as we are. For daily intimate care, choose VagiVital V Cleanser – a 100% soap-free and fragrance-free intimate wash that gently cleanses and provides maximum hydration ❤️
Buy VagiVital Moisturizing Cleanser here.
DO WE NEED MORE RESEARCH?
Absolutely! The vaginal microbiome is an exciting and partly unexplored area. We already know that it changes throughout a woman's lifetime – from birth, through menstrual cycles, pregnancy, and menopause. But we need to learn more about how best to support this microbiome and how we can prevent the imbalances that affect so many women today.
Take care of your microbiome and Stay Pussytive ❤️
/Fanny Falkman Grinndal
Business Manager Nordics
Peptonic Medical AB
fanny.falkman-grinndal@peptonicmedical.se
WHAT IS THE VAGINAL MICROBIOME?
The vaginal microbiome is a unique part of our bodily ecosystem – a "private room" that differs from other parts of the body. What is special about the microbiome in the vagina is that it consists of a relatively small number of different types of bacteria, most of which belong to the Lactobacillus group. These little "soldiers" have the task of maintaining a low pH value, producing lactic acid, and protecting against infections by creating an acidic environment that counteracts the growth of harmful bacteria. Research shows that a healthy vaginal pH is between 3.8 and 4.2, which is crucial for keeping the vagina protected and balanced.
What is even more fascinating is that this microbiome begins to develop already in newborn girls, and before the first menstruation, the bacterial composition already resembles that of an adult woman.
THE ROLE OF THE MICROBIOME IN OUR IMMUNE DEFENSE
The microbiome in the vagina is one of the body's first lines of defense. By maintaining an acidic environment, Lactobacillus bacteria create the conditions for what we call the "vagina's natural defense." They not only produce lactic acid but also small amounts of hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), which has a direct inhibitory effect on harmful microorganisms. This defense mechanism protects us not only against common infections such as bacterial vaginosis and yeast infections but also more serious diseases like HIV, gonorrhea, and chlamydia.
When the microbiome loses balance – for example due to antibiotics, hormonal changes, or excessive use of soaps and intimate products – a so-called dysbiosis can occur. This means that harmful bacteria gain the upper hand, which can lead to irritation, discomfort, and a weakened barrier against other infections. A common consequence of this is bacterial vaginosis, characterized by foul-smelling discharge, irritation, and an elevated pH level. In bacterial vaginosis, the amount of Lactobacillus has decreased significantly, allowing other bacteria, such as Gardnerella vaginalis, to grow and further disrupt the balance.
HOW TO GET RID OF BACTERIAL VAGINOSIS
Vernivia Vaginal Mousse by VagiVital is an antibiotic-free treatment for bacterial vaginosis that restores balance in the vagina in just 7 days and relieves foul-smelling discharge within 12 hours. By mimicking the vagina's own immune defense, Vernivia creates an optimal environment and restores balance 🙌
Buy Vernivia here and get quick relief from foul-smelling discharge.
THE IMPACT OF HORMONES ON THE MICROBIOME
Hormones play an important role in regulating the composition of our vaginal microbiome. Estrogen, for example, stimulates the growth of Lactobacillus by increasing the production of glycogen, which serves as nourishment for these good bacteria. This is also why the vagina is extra sensitive during menopause, when decreased estrogen levels lead to fewer Lactobacillus bacteria and an increased vaginal pH. This can cause both irritation, fragile mucous membranes, and a greater risk of recurring infections.
During pregnancy, the opposite happens: estrogen levels increase and the growth of Lactobacillus thrives, further strengthening protection. Hormones are therefore an important factor to consider when we talk about vaginal health.
WHAT AFFECTS THE VAGINAL MICROBIOME?
Among the external factors that can disrupt the balance are excessive use of intimate soap, unprotected sex, and even certain contraceptives. Research also points to genetic factors playing a role. Women in different parts of the world have different types of vaginal flora, suggesting that our microbiome is as individual as we are. For daily intimate care, choose VagiVital V Cleanser – a 100% soap-free and fragrance-free intimate wash that gently cleanses and provides maximum hydration ❤️
Buy VagiVital Moisturizing Cleanser here.
DO WE NEED MORE RESEARCH?
Absolutely! The vaginal microbiome is an exciting and partly unexplored area. We already know that it changes throughout a woman's lifetime – from birth, through menstrual cycles, pregnancy, and menopause. But we need to learn more about how best to support this microbiome and how we can prevent the imbalances that affect so many women today.
Take care of your microbiome and Stay Pussytive ❤️
/Fanny Falkman Grinndal
Business Manager Nordics
Peptonic Medical AB
fanny.falkman-grinndal@peptonicmedical.se
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