FOOD, flower, buttocks… Forget whatever nickname you have for your vagina, because we’re about to get scientific about the passage that connects your uterus to the outside.
Not to be confused with the vulva – your external genitals – this vital organ is finally seeing scientists sit up and take notice.
It is home to billions of bacteria this can leave you burning, itching or smelling if the delicate balance is disturbed. Up to half of women will have a UTI in their lifetime*, 75% will have candidiasis**, while bacterial vaginosis (BV) – which causes discharge with a fishy odor – is prevalent in almost a third of women, with some experiencing no symptoms. *
A new wave of products — from probiotics to specially formulated serums, lubricants and menstrual pants — aims to prevent these conditions (and those endless trips to the pharmacy) by helping maintain the harmony of the vaginal microbiome.
“The scientific evidence regarding the importance of the vaginal microbiome is robust in many areas. However, there are still significant gaps, which we hope ongoing research will continue to fill,” says Tracey Sainsbury, fertility counselor and Femme Health ambassador.
Although the vagina is complicated and largely misunderstood (just like its owner), there are some basic hygiene principles that every woman should know…
Your vagina’s delicate microbiome
A normal vaginal pH is between 3.8 and 5 – moderately acidic to prevent the overgrowth of unwanted bugs and fungi. “Your vagina contains specific lactobacilli to lower the pH and keep it healthy,” says Dr Jo Bailey, NHS gynecologist.
When these microorganisms become imbalanced, symptoms of BV and candidiasis can occur. UTI, on the other hand, is commonly caused by E.coli, which is present in the intestine and travels to the urethra when it is passed in feces. “Women who have a healthy vaginal microbiome don’t get as many UTIs,” says Dr. Bailey.
The suggestion is that a healthy vaginal microbiome may help ward off nasty bugs. Simply put, there is a crossover between intestinal, vaginal and urinary health.
What are your hormones doing?
Hormonal changes that occur during puberty, pregnancy and menopause can impact the vaginal microbiome. “Estrogen is really important for supporting vaginal health,” says Dr. Bailey.
During menopause, however, estrogen levels continually decrease. “These changes increase the risk of atrophic vaginitis (in which the lining of the vagina becomes thinner and drier), BV, and genitourinary symptoms in postmenopausal women,” says Dr. HRT and vaginal estrogen can help.
An estrogen shift also occurs before menstruation. “For some women, this causes changes in their microbiome,” says Dr. Bailey. “Some data suggests that women on the pill, who have fewer hormonal fluctuations, may have fewer problems.”
But the science is not conclusive. “For some, the introduction of the pill can be a blessing, stimulating the flora and fauna of the microbiome, whilst for others it can cause a significant imbalance,” says Tracey.
The complications
If the risk of nasty infections wasn’t enough, some evidence points to more sinister implications of an imbalanced vaginal microbiome.
The research analyzed the vaginal composition of women with HPV – the cause of 99% of cervical cancer cases. “The HPV virus is very common – any woman who has had any type of sexual contact would have been exposed to it,” says Dr. Bailey.
But although the immune system eliminates it in most women, it remains in others, risking cancerous changes. “What is it with those women who can’t shake it off quickly?
Data from one study showed that they were more likely to have an imbalance of the vaginal microbiome,” says Dr. Bailey. “Meanwhile, BV is implicated in early miscarriages, postpartum infections and preterm labor. BV is also associated with a greater likelihood of acquiring infections that can cause pelvic inflammatory disease.”
Self-care knowledge
“You need to look after the skin of your vulva and vagina by wearing cotton underwear rather than synthetics and have good general hygiene – thus preventing the spread of bacteria from the anus to the vagina, making sure to clean from front to back when you go. to the bathroom,” says Dr. Bailey. The best way to clean the vulva (including the labia) is with warm water and, at most, neutral unscented soap.
To clean between the vulva and anus, use the same motion from front to back. But don’t wash your vagina – the internal canal – as this is where these important bugs live. An itchy vulva does not always mean thrush, but it could be a skin irritation.
“Washing with an emollient, like Cetraben (and then using it as a moisturizer) can be soothing,” says Dr. “If you notice that your symptoms worsen with sex, using a water-based lubricant may help. If you have a new partner, use a condom.” This prevents STDs and potentially BV.
Gynae Equipment
VJJ Perfect V, £26
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These vaginal probiotics, containing four active lactobacilli, reach the vagina through the intestine to prevent BV and candidiasis.
Vitória Naydaya Oil£28
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You hydrate your entire body, so why not your vulva too? This serum prevents dryness and discomfort and contains only natural oils such as coconut and sweet almond.
Annahitah period pants
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Avoid irritating pads and tampons and opt for menstrual pants that are gentler on your vagina. This range has heavy-flow briefs (Shanti, £24) and lightweight gym thongs (Venus, £20) – both machine washable.
Yes, WB Water-Based Personal Lubricant, £11.99
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Lubricants can prevent any friction on the vaginal skin during sex, making irritation less likely. This is pH compatible and does not contain chemicals or perfumes that could disturb the flora.
Luna Daily The Everywhere Wash, £14
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Designed to prevent irritation, this intimate soap is also pH balanced and contains vitamins C, E and F, as well as prebiotics to soothe and balance the skin.
This story originally appeared on The-sun.com read the full story
