VAGINAL HEALTH
Recurrent vaginal infections? Let’s talk about vaginal health.
Vaginal infections, irritations, pain, changes in discharge and even simply feeling “off”, are complaints we see quite regularly at the clinic. We believe understanding and being in tune with this side of your health can be really empowering!
When we think about vaginal health, one of the most important things we talk about is the health of your vaginal microbiome. Yes, the vagina has it’s own unique microbial composition!
The diversity of these microbes is relatively unique to each person and this composition actually fluctuates depending on where you are in your lifespan.
Before we hit puberty - and experience the messy fluctuations of hormones associated with it - the vaginal microbiome is actually pretty similar to that of our gut and skin. As we see rises of estrogen, the cells lining the vagina start to store more sugar in the form of glycogen. A specific type of bacteria thrive on this sugar and produce hydrogen peroxide, leading to this uniquely acidic environment. The presence of these bacteria - mainly lactobacillus - and the acidic environment they produce, helps keep the area clear of other less desirable microbes and infection. Maintaining a healthy microbiome can help prevent bacterial vaginosis and yeast infections.
This healthy microbial flora can be influenced by:
age
pregnancy
sexual activity
menstrual cycle hormonal shifts
smoking
hormonal medication
soaps
Anything that can cause a change in pH, can cause a shift in the microbes there!
A “healthy” vaginal microbiome is one where you don’t notice symptoms and, in the case of those trying to conceive, one that is associated with good pregnancy outcomes. The “normal” microbiome of a healthy person is predominantly lactobacillus.
Some steps we can take to optimize the health of the vagina:
Work on a healthy gut microbiome (come chat with us!)
Wear breathable underwear or no underwear to sleep
Avoid using harsh soaps/fragrance
No soaps at all IN the vagina - no douching.
Wash sex toys/aids between uses
Use pH appropriate lubrication if needed
Use protection when having sex while you are restoring microbial balance.
If you want to learn more about supporting your vaginal health and overall body in a healthy way health book an appointment with us here.