The Vaginal Microbiome
The vaginal microbiome and its role in female health have long been overlooked due to societal taboos. However, recent developments have shed light on this crucial aspect of women's well-being. In March 2023, a groundbreaking article in US Vogue demystified the vaginal microbiome (VMB), highlighting its significance in maintaining female health.
Comprising over 200 bacterial species, the vaginal microbiota is influenced by genetics, ethnic background, and environmental factors. Unlike other microbiomes, VMB exhibits low diversity, a key element for its balance. Five Community State Types (CSTs) dominate the VMB, each associated with specific bacterial species or groups. CST I, dominated by Lactobacillus crispatus, is correlated with vaginal health and fertility.
Lactobacilli play a pivotal role in maintaining vaginal health by producing lactic acid and antimicrobial peptides, preventing pathogenic invasions. However, variations exist between ethnicities, with Black and Latina women more susceptible to imbalances in the VMB.
Throughout a woman's life, the VMB undergoes significant changes. During puberty, estrogen levels rise, promoting the growth of lactobacilli by accumulating glycogen. Conversely, during menopause, estrogen levels decrease, leading to VMB shifts that may increase the risk of infections and other health issues.
The VMB's influence extends to fertility, pregnancy, and sexually transmitted diseases (STDs). The composition of the VMB affects embryo implantation and pre-term birth risk. Moreover, during birth, a baby's microbiome is influenced by exposure to the mother's vaginal and anal microorganisms. Cesarean-section births result in differences in the baby's microbiome, potentially impacting long-term health.
External factors such as personal care products, antibiotics, smoking, stress, nutrition, and sexual activity can disrupt the VMB's balance. Proper care is essential, including using natural-fiber clothing, a Mediterranean-style diet, and probiotics. The pharmaceutical industry offers lactobacilli-based products to restore balance after antibiotic use.
In conclusion, the vaginal microbiome profoundly impacts female health throughout various life stages. Its role in fertility, pregnancy, and disease susceptibility underscores the need for greater awareness and care. As society begins to break down taboos, understanding and maintaining the vaginal microbiome can lead to improved overall well-being for women.
References:
- Auriemma, C., Capasso, S., & Mobili, L. (2021). The Vaginal Microbiome: A Long Urogenital Colonization Throughout Woman Life. Frontiers in Cellular and Infection Microbiology, 11, 695549.
- Gupta, R., Sood, R., Barton, P., Gulati, S., & Metz, T. D. (2020). Diversity of Vaginal Microbiome in Pregnancy: Deciphering the Obscurity. Frontiers in Public Health, 8, 568.
- Petrova, M. I., Reid, G., Vaneechoutte, M., Lebeer, S., & Lactobacillus iners, L. (2015). Lactobacillus species as biomarkers and agents that can promote various aspects of vaginal health. Frontiers in Physiology, 6, 81.
- Kindinger, L. M., Bennett, P. R., Lee, Y. S., Marchesi, J. R., Smith, A., & Cacciatore, S. et al. (2017). The interaction between vaginal microbiota, cervical length, and vaginal progesterone treatment for preterm birth risk. Microbiome, 5(1), 6.
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). (2019). Preterm Birth.
Retrieved from https://www.cdc.gov/reproductivehealth/maternalinfanthealth/pretermbirth.htm