The term "vaginal flora" refers to the totality of all microorganisms (bacteria and fungi) that colonize the vagina and vulva.
The vaginal flora, also called the "vaginal microbiome", is primarily composed of "lactobacilli", better known as "lactic acid bacteria". These ensure a healthy balance and protect the vagina and vulva from infections and the excessive spread of potentially dangerous fungi and bacteria. Under the influence of the hormone estrogen, the lactobacilli produce lactic acid, which ensures that the vaginal environment remains in the acidic range (pH of about 3.8 - 4.4). In comparison, the pH value of our skin is about 5.5, which is why normal shower gels are not suitable for the intimate area.
Healthy vaginal flora is an important protective shield against intruders. However, if it becomes imbalanced, it can hardly recover without external support. Then the vagina, vulva and also the bladder are more susceptible to additional infections of all kinds.
Strengthen vaginal flora: Help from the inside
To promote a healthy vaginal environment, it is important to strengthen the immune system as a whole. A healthy, varied diet, regular exercise and conscious stress reduction support the body's defenses and help keep our microbiome in balance. In terms of diet, it can be helpful to include prebiotic foods (such as garlic, onions, leeks, yogurt, pickled vegetables, or even sauerkraut) in the diet. If this is not enough, probiotics can also be taken temporarily in the form of powder or tablets. Proper intimate hygiene also plays a key role: pure water is best, and the inside of the vagina should never be treated with washing lotions or soap. Cleaning of the vulva can occasionally be supported with pH-neutral soaps or lotions.
When the vaginal flora tips
Sometimes the balance between lactic acid bacteria and intestinal bacteria shifts. Then it can happen that in the end there are no lactic acid bacteria left at all. This can be noticed by the fact that the smell of the vaginal secretion becomes unpleasant, sometimes even "fishy". In such a case, the "wrong" bacteria must first be reduced (with systemic or local antibacterial therapy), and then the lactic acid bacteria flora must be rebuilt with vaginal capsules with lactic acid bacteria. Without pretreatment, only with lactic acid bacteria, this usually does not work, because the externally supplied lactic acid bacteria die immediately in the hostile environment. Lactic acid supplied in parallel with the lactic acid bacteria (e.g. through creams) can have a supporting effect in rebuilding the flora.
