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Why you should pay attention to your vaginal microbiome – and how to keep it healthy
🇸🇬 Singapore /Health & Science

Why you should pay attention to your vaginal microbiome – and how to keep it healthy

From CNA · () English

Summarized by DistantNews. Read the original for the full story.

At a glance

Explainer Named sources Context piece
  • Doctors say a healthy vaginal microbiome is dominated by Lactobacillus bacteria, which help protect against disease-causing organisms.
  • An imbalance can allow Gardnerella to grow and contribute to bacterial vaginosis, whose symptoms include unusual discharge, irritation and odor.
  • Menstruation, pregnancy, antibiotics, stress, douching and diet can affect the balance of the vaginal microbiome.

The vaginal microbiome is a complex ecosystem of bacteria, fungi and viruses. Doctors say it differs from the better-known gut and skin microbiomes because it exists in an acidic environment with little or no oxygen.

The microbiome is a complex and delicately balanced ecosystem composed primarily of bacteria, fungi and viruses.

— Dr Rachel LeeShe explained the general nature of the microbiome and why it varies across the body.

A healthy vaginal microbiome is overwhelmingly dominated by Lactobacillus, common probiotic bacteria that help maintain a stable immune environment and protect against harmful organisms. When Lactobacillus levels fall, bacteria such as Gardnerella can multiply and contribute to bacterial vaginosis.

Overwhelmingly dominated by lactobacillus species

— Dr Clara OngShe described the bacterial profile of a healthy vaginal microbiome.

The infection may cause increased creamy, gray or greenish discharge, itching or irritation, and a fishy or unusual odor. Doctors identify several factors that can disrupt the balance, including hormonal changes during menstruation and pregnancy, antibiotics, stress, douching and diets high in fat, sugar or alcohol.

Destroying the sensitive balance of good and bad bacteria

— Dr Rachel LeeShe warned about the effect of vaginal douching.
About this summary

Originally published by CNA. Summarized and contextualized automatically by DistantNews, with a note on how the source frames the story. Not individually reviewed before publishing. How this works.

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