Strengthening vaginal flora: causes, symptoms & natural remedies

Perhaps you're familiar with this: You have a painful urinary tract infection , take antibiotics, and no sooner have the bothersome symptoms disappeared than you notice a yeast infection . Many women complain about this problem, which almost always has the same cause: The vaginal flora is out of balance . 

What is the vaginal flora ? 

Not only the vagina, but also other organs such as the skin or intestines possess a flora. This is a collection of numerous beneficial bacteria and fungi . The vagina is predominantly home to lactic acid bacteria ( lactobacilli ), which produce lactic acid and thus maintain a slightly acidic vaginal pH.

This prevents fungi, viruses, or harmful bacteria from accumulating and causing infections. Lactobacilli also produce substances like hydrogen peroxide and bacteriocins , which inhibit the growth of other bacteria, thus preventing them from colonizing. The sex hormone estrogen is particularly important for the normal growth of the vaginal flora and is especially high in premenopausal women (1,2). 

Why is the vaginal flora so important? 

A healthy vaginal flora has a significant impact on our well-being. Conversely, an imbalanced flora can cause considerable discomfort. As in the example mentioned earlier, a deficiency of lactic acid bacteria can allow fungi to proliferate, triggering unpleasant symptoms such as burning, itching, and pain.

Bacterial vaginosis , or vaginal infections caused by bacteria, can also result from the growth of foreign, harmful bacteria. In many cases, these are asymptomatic, but they are suspected of promoting the infection of other diseases. If symptoms do occur, most sufferers complain of a fishy-smelling, grayish-white discharge. In the worst-case scenario, a mixed infection of fungi and bacteria develops.

Incidentally, men can also become infected with bacterial vaginosis , for example through sexual intercourse or shared towels . While this usually runs its course without symptoms, it can be transmitted repeatedly. In cases of persistent vaginal infections, this possibility should be considered, and the partner should ideally be treated as well (2,3,4).

Why do imbalances occur? 

In most cases, an imbalance, or more accurately, dysbiosis, is associated with taking antibiotics. Unfortunately, antibiotics kill not only the targeted bacteria but also the harmless bacteria in the vaginal flora. This allows other bacteria to proliferate and colonize the body. However, overly frequent or excessive intimate hygiene can also contribute to this.

Furthermore, a deficiency of estrogen can also be a cause of menopausal symptoms . Therefore, many older women also complain of vaginal dryness after menopause. In many cases, however, this can be easily treated with estrogen replacement therapy. This is usually administered via the application of a hormone gel or the intake of tablets (5,6,7).

What can you do to strengthen the vaginal flora ? 

Since dysbiosis arises from a deficiency of beneficial lactic acid bacteria, replenishing them is a good idea. Probiotics are particularly suitable for this purpose. Their use strengthens the local immune defenses of the vagina and prevents inflammation associated with the estrogen deficiency of menopause . The bacterium Lactobacillus crispatus appears to be particularly effective in preventing bacterial vaginosis; however, other bacterial strains have also been shown to have a positive effect on the vaginal flora and thus on recurrent infections.

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Probiotics can be taken orally or applied topically as creams or gels. Furthermore, side effects have been rarely observed, as these are bacteria that are native to the body's flora and familiar to the body. There is some evidence that people with chronic or severe intestinal diseases may be at risk for bloodstream infection. If in doubt, medical advice should be sought to assess individual risk (8,9,10). 

What else is important? 

With a few tips and tricks, you can help keep your intimate flora healthy: 

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Conclusion

In general, there's a lot you can do to prevent vaginal infections. If you experience recurring infections, don't despair; consider your partner as a possible source and have them treated if necessary. Using probiotics can be very beneficial, especially for susceptible individuals, and can help prevent future infections. Women who have struggled with inflammation and vaginal dryness since menopause can also benefit significantly. A hormone gel can be helpful in these cases, but this should be discussed with a gynecologist beforehand.