Supporting The Vaginal Microbiome

Did you know that much like the gut, the vagina has its own microbiome? Unlike the gut, which thrives on a diverse microbiome, when it comes to the vagina less is more. This sensitive microbiome is maintained by a strain of bacteria called lactobacillus, that should dominate this ecosystem.
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A lactobacillus dominant microbiome is important for:
〰️ Protection against UTIs
〰️ Reducing transmission of STIs
〰️ Reducing incidence of Bacterial Vaginosis (BV) and thrush
〰️ Supporting fertility
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Factors that affect the vaginal microbiome include:
〰️ Antibiotics
〰️ Medications (such as the OCP)
〰️ Smoking
〰️ Hormones
〰️ Menstruation
〰️ Stress
〰️ Poor immune function
〰️ Multiple sexual partners
〰️ Poor diet
〰️ Unprotected sex
〰️ Vaginal washes or soaps ~ the vagina is designed to clean itself!
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Recurring thrush, BV or itching, pain or changes in discharge are signs of an imbalance in vaginal bacteria that needs to be addressed. Specific vaginal microbiome testing is available to identify infection, opportunistic bacteria and overall vaginal health.