Vaginal microbiome

The vaginal microbiome: a key to women’s health

The vaginal microbiome is a key factor in women’s health and well-being. It consists of a variety of microorganisms that live in a delicate balance with each other. This balance plays an important role in maintaining vaginal health and protecting against infection.

The five microbial communities in the vaginal microbiome

The vaginal microbiome can be divided into five main communities, consisting mainly of different types of lactobacilli:

1. Lactobacillus crispatus: this species is the most abundant and is instrumental in maintaining a low pH that promotes vaginal health.
2. Lactobacillus gasseri: Known for its ability to regulate pH and inhibit the growth of pathogenic bacteria.
3. Lactobacillus iners: Despite its protective properties, this species can survive in higher pH environments, which can sometimes lead to imbalances.
4. Lactobacillus jensenii: This species also helps to stabilize the pH and protects against pathogenic microorganisms.
5. Diverse microbial communities: In some cases, no single Lactobacillus species dominates, but a mixture of different microbes, which can lead to a less stable microbiome.

The importance of pH

The pH of the vagina plays a crucial role in maintaining a healthy microbiome. A low pH (between 3.8 and 4.5) creates an acidic environment that inhibits the growth of harmful bacteria and yeasts and promotes the proliferation of beneficial lactobacilli. Changes in pH can lead to an imbalance and promote infections such as bacterial vaginosis or fungal infections.

The pH value during pregnancy

During pregnancy, the pH value of the vagina changes frequently and generally becomes more acidic. This adjustment serves to protect against infections that could increase the risk of complications such as premature birth. The increased estrogen levels during pregnancy promote the growth of lactobacilli, which helps to maintain a low pH.

Changes in the vaginal microbiome during childbirth

During childbirth, the vaginal microbiome undergoes significant changes. During the birth process, the newborn is exposed to the mother’s vaginal microbiome, which allows for initial colonization of the baby’s skin and gut. This initial microbiome colonization is important for the development of the newborn’s immune system.

The vaginal microbiome during the menopause

The menopause brings hormonal changes that affect the vaginal microbiome. The falling oestrogen level often leads to an increase in the vaginal pH value, which makes the microbiome less stable and more susceptible to infections. The number of protective lactobacilli can decrease, which can lead to an increased prevalence of bacterial vaginosis and other infections.

External influences on the vaginal microbiome

The vaginal microbiome can be influenced by various external factors:

• Tampons: long-term use or infrequent changing of tampons can alter the vaginal environment and disrupt the microbiome.
• Lubricants: Some lubricants contain substances that can change the pH value and disrupt the microbiome.
• Intimate douches: These can disrupt the natural balance of microorganisms and increase the risk of infections.
• Underwear: Synthetic materials can impair ventilation and create a moist environment that favors the growth of unwanted microbes.
• Perfumes and fragrances: These can be irritating and disrupt the natural balance of the microbiome.

One of the few active ingredients for products to improve the vaginal microbiome is Calybiota Bio (INCI = Glycerin, Bombax Costatum Flower Extract, Aqua.

Calybiota Bio is a water-based active ingredient extracted from the calyx of the red kapok tree flower, which comes from sustainable production in Africa. The active ingredient is rich in polysaccharides from the kapok tree flower and balances the skin’s microbiota. Calybiota Bio is particularly recommended for intimate care and as a natural deodorant. Calybiota Bio has a prebiotic effect on lactobacillus in the female intimate flora, reduces dryness and relieves discomfort. It is a preservative-free active ingredient. Calybiota Bio is 97.03% certified organic by Ecocert Greenlife according to the COSMOS standard.

Conclusion

The vaginal microbiome plays an essential role in women’s health and well-being. A balanced microbiome protects against infections and promotes overall vaginal health. Understanding and caring for this delicate ecosystem is therefore crucial to maintaining wellbeing, especially at different stages of life such as pregnancy and menopause. We can develop various products for your brand that utilize this knowledge of the vaginal microbiome. Please feel free to contact us.

Literature:

Probiotics in Cosmetic and Personal Care Products: Trends and Challenges.

Puebla-Barragan S, Reid G.Molecules. 2021 Feb 26;26(5):1249.

Maintaining vulvar, vaginal and perineal health: Clinical considerations.

Graziottin A.Womens Health (Lond). 2024 Jan-Dec;20:17455057231223716.