Balance in vaginal flora

Balance in vaginal flora

What is the vaginal flora or Doderleïn flora?

The vaginal flora (or vaginal microbiota) is made up of a group of micro-organisms that live naturally in the vaginal cavity. This group, dominated by protective lactobacilli, is known as the Doderleïn flora. The balance of this flora depends on a number of factors: vaginal pH, presence of pathogenic bacteria, lifestyle, stress, pregnancy, medication including antibiotics, smoking, etc. Exogenous factors such as heat and humidity, vaginal showers or even underwear that is too tight, sexual intercourse, etc. can also alter the natural state of the vaginal flora.

Dysbiosis: an imbalance in vaginal microbiota

Itching, irritation, dryness of the vaginal mucous membranes, discomfort and a change in pH are all signs of a population change in micro-organisms.

When the vaginal flora is unbalanced it is known as dysbiosis. The protective microenvironment is disturbed, promoting vaginal pathologies such as bacterial vaginosis and mycosis (candidiasis).

Bacterial vaginosis leads to complex changes in the vaginal microbiota caused by a variety of pathogenic bacteria. Sometimes, such as E. coli, they come from the urinary or digestive system.

While candidiasis or mycosis are caused by a microscopic fungus, Candida albicans. They are most often treated with gynaecological ova.

Vaginal dysbiosis: is it vaginosis or candidiasis?

Women experience vaginal dysbiosis at least once in their lives. The Doderleïn flora, made up of “good bacteria” (Lactobacillus crispatus, Lactobacillus gasseri, Lactobacillus jensenii and Lactobacillus iners), no longer fulfils its protective role against pathogens.

On average, 40% to 50% of adult women have bacterial vaginosis and 20% to 25% have mycosis (candidiasis). 

Unusual unpleasant odour fluid discharge are mainly signs of bacterial vaginosis while itching, lumpy white discharge and the absence of odour lean more towards candidiasis.

Diagnosis always depends on a medical consultation and biological analysis.
Confusion between the two pathologies may lead to incorrect advice and treatment (antibiotics or antifungals).

Is treatment needed for unbalanced vaginal flora?

Burning sensation, irritation of the intimal mucosa, redness, itchy private parts, pain, vaginal discharge, etc. if you experience any of these symptoms, don't hesitate! It's probably because your intimate flora is out of balance. Seek the advice of a healthcare professional who can check that there are no pathogenic germs.

How can you replenish your intimate flora naturally?

Antibiotics and antifungals are generally effective in the treatment of vaginosis and mycosis. On the other hand, they do not feature in the reinstatement of a healthy and balanced vaginal microbiota, so useful in preventing further episodes.

Having eliminated the troubling symptoms of the intimate sphere, it is therefore important to rebuild the composition of this ecosystem. To this end, probiotic-type food supplements (lactobacilli identical to those found in the Doderleïn flora) are one of the best solutions for restoring a long-term balance to the flora.

Probiotics for numerous protective lactobacilli

Scientific studies have demonstrated that probiotics taken orally will colonise the gastro-intestinal microbiota leading to the restoration of a healthy vaginal microbiota, thanks to interactions between the intestinal and vaginal mucosa. In fact, the intestinal microbiota acts as a lactobacilli reservoir for the intimate flora.

Furthermore, taking microbiotic strains orally (capsules) is an ideal alternative, because it is much more practical than more local applications such as treatments using ova or capsules.

The solution for preventing and combating intimate discomfort on a long-term basis: probiotics

Antibiotics and antifungals are generally effective in the treatment of vaginosis and mycosis. On the other hand they do not feature in the reinstatement of a healthy and balanced vaginal microbiota, so useful in preventing further episodes.

Having eliminated the troubling symptoms, it is therefore important to rebuild the natural flora. To this end, probiotics (lactobacilli identical to those found in the vaginal flora) are one of the best solutions for long-term comfort.

By mouth? Yes! Scientific studies have demonstrated that probiotics taken orally will colonise the gastro-intestinal microbiota leading to the restoration of a healthy vaginal microbiota, thanks to interactions between the intestinal and vaginal mucosa. In fact, the intestinal microbiota acts as a lactobacilli reservoir for the intimate flora.

Also, the oral route is an ideal alternative, because it is much more practical than more local applications such as pessaries or capsules.