Many people, both women and men, believe that vaginal yeast infections or bacterial vaginal infections are the result of poor hygiene. This is probably why those affected are uncomfortable talking about it. After all, who wants to be considered "unhygienic"?
We explain how this imbalance in the vaginal flora (vaginal dysbiosis) occurs. It quickly becomes clear that fungal infections or bacterial vaginosis have little to do with poor hygiene.
Causes of vaginal dysbiosis
- Reduction of “good” lactic acid bacteria through the use of antibiotics
- Excessive and/or incorrect hygiene
- Promoting the growth of germs due to excessively moist and warm environment in the intimate area
- Hormonal fluctuations, e.g. due to the contraceptive pill, during pregnancy or during menopause
- Diseases (e.g. diabetes)
- Increase in vaginal pH due to alkaline body fluids (e.g. blood (menstrual bleeding), semen and lochia after birth)
Symptoms of vaginal dysbiosis
- Foul-smelling gray-whitish discharge
- Increased vaginal pH (> 4.4)
- However, it is also possible to be completely free of symptoms.
Risks of vaginal dysbiosis
- Bacterial vaginosis
- Vaginal yeast infection
Diagnosis of vaginal dysbiosis
Determine the pH value with an approved pH test at home
Treatment of vaginal dysbiosis
The goal of treatment is to restore a healthy vaginal environment with a pH of 3.8 to 4.4. A lactic acid treatment can lower the vaginal pH. This low pH creates optimal conditions for lactic acid bacteria to proliferate and maintain a low pH on their own.
Prevention of vaginal dysbiosis
If the pH value is repeatedly too high, lactic acid can be used every one to two weeks to acidify the vaginal flora.
Proper care of the intimate area is fundamentally important. We recommend sparingly cleansing with acidic intimate care products (low pH).
Always seek medical advice
Important note: This article contains only general information and should not be used for self-diagnosis or treatment. It is not a substitute for a consultation with a doctor.