Loss of Balance: What Affects the Microflora of the Vagina?
The most well-known and frequently prescribed test that gynecologists use is the smear for flora. This is by no means accidental. The microflora of the vagina is very sensitive, depends on many factors, and is constantly changing. A change in the balance of useful and opportunistic bacteria can lead to unpleasant consequences for the health and quality of life of a woman.
Dr. Helga
Good and bad
In the microflora of the vagina, two types of bacteria coexist: "good" lactobacilli and opportunistic microorganisms. As long as the number of lactobacilli is about 95 % of the total microflora, they are able to prevent the development of pathogens and maintain the desired pH. As soon as the normal balance is disturbed, lactic acid bacteria cease to cope with their protective function, which can lead to common diseases such as bacterial vaginosis and candidiasis.
When bad bacteria wins
The ratio of bacteria in the vagina depends on the hormonal background, the phase of the menstrual cycle, age, and even the psychological state of the woman. The growth of pathogens can be caused by:
- Sexually transmitted diseases
- Transferred viral and bacterial infections
- Taking ant...
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