The vaginal microbiome is a dynamic, sensitive microenvironment that changes in response to pregnancy, the menstrual cycle, contraceptive use, estrogen deficiency in menopause and diet. A significant amount of protection is provided by Lactobacillus, the good bacteria which produces lactic acid that contributes to the acidic vaginal pH which ranges from 3.5 – 4.5. Protective Lactobacillus can be easily disrupted, resulting in vaginal pH imbalance. This predisposes women to a variety of adverse vaginal health conditions such as bacterial vaginosis (BV), candidiasis (thrush), and sexually transmitted infections (STIs).
Things that negatively affect the normal Vaginal Microbiome include a wide variety of practices used to cleanse in and/or around the female genital area, anything placed in the vagina (e.g., lubricants, etc.) and estrogen deficient changes secondary to menopause
Feminine Hygiene Practices
Douching has been associated with increased risks of BV, preterm birth, and pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), Little is known of the effect that other feminine hygiene products such as gels, sprays and wipes have on the vaginal microbiome.
The Menopausal Vaginal Microbiome
The vaginal microbiome in postmenopausal women changes with decreasing levels of circulating estrogen. Estrogen normally maintains moisture, elasticity and thicker, ore supple epithelial tissue. In Menopause the transformations in the micro-anatomical features of the vaginal epitheliumIn can cause thinning, loss of elasticity, shortening and tightening of the vaginal tissue. This in turn causes painful intercourse, susceptibility to vaginal and urinary tract infections and more.
Contact us today and keep your va-jay-jay in tip top shape along with optimizing your overall menopause health and wellness!
To learn more about the services and offerings provided here at Coastal Well Woman and to learn more about our team, please Visit Our Website | For questions about our practice, specific services, or to schedule an appointment with us, give us a call: (805) 455-4425.
