How To Maintain A Healthy Vaginal Microbiome, According To Experts

Just like the gut, the vagina is full of beneficial bacteria which make up the vaginal microbiome.

The main bacterial comes from the genus Lactobacillus, which has the important job of making lactic acid to stimulate healthy cervical mucus and discourage the growth of unwanted bacteria, yeast, and viruses.

A healthy vaginal microbiome1 may reduce the risk of sexually transmitted infections (STIs), bladder infections, and even cervical cancer2.

A healthy vaginal microbiome is also how you avoid the symptoms of yeast infections and bacterial vaginosis (BV), the two most common "ecological disorders" of the vaginal microbiome.

Yeast infections are an overgrowth of what should be a relatively small population of yeast living in your microbiome.

They generally lead to a thick, white vaginal discharge, as well as itchiness, redness, and irritation around the vagina.

BV is an overgrowth of what should be a relatively small population of normal bacteria, such as Gardnerella. Symptoms generally include odorous discharge, itching, and burning while peeing3.

The vaginal microbiome can be vulnerable to disruption via menstruation, as well as any external intrusions, like penises, fingers, tampons or menstrual cups, IUDs, or sex toys.

Research has shown that unprotected sex and sex with multiple partners may increase the risk of developing BV4.

"Additionally, there is a significant association between bacterial vaginosis and female sex partners5, because women who have sex with women appear to be at increased risk when compared with women who have sex with men only," one study states.

The vaginal microbiome can also be disrupted by factors that damage lactobacilli, like prolonged use of antibiotics6, smoking7, stress, and estrogen deficiencies occurring with amenorrhea, menopause8, or certain forms of birth control.9

Additionally, using scented soaps or douches can disrupt the pH in the vagina and disturb the microbiome.

If you're trying to balance the bacteria in the vaginal microbiome, consider talking to an OB/GYN about incorporating a vaginal probiotic into your supplement routine.

These include strains of lactobacilli that have been scientifically proven to restore the vaginal microbiome and treat yeast infections and BV.

The best-studied product is a combination of 11Lactobacillus rhamnosus11 and 11Lactobacillus reuteri11, which can be taken orally.

The vagina keeps itself clean with lactic acid and the normal flow of vaginal discharge.

Research shows that cigarette smoke is associated with bacterial vaginosis and a decrease in 13Lactobacillus13 in the vaginal microbiome.

Improving the gut microbiome can positively affect the vaginal microbiome14.