Vaginal flora and vaginal health
Vaginal flora or vaginal microflora refers to the natural colonization of the vagina with microorganisms. One of the most important species involved is the lactobacilli, also known as lactic acid bacteria or Döderlein bacteria. Species observed include, for example , , and . They convert glycogen to lactic acid, providing a locally acidic environment with a pH of about 4. Through this and other mechanisms such as the formation of antibacterial substances like hydrogen peroxide and the bacteriocins, the vaginal flora protects the mucosa from infection. A change in vaginal flora is observed, for example, during pregnancy and after treatment with antibiotics. It predisposes to colonization with germs such as , trichomonads and increases the risk of contracting sexually transmitted diseases. Bacterial vaginosis is an overgrowth of the mucosa with anaerobic bacteria, which manifests itself in discharge, an increased pH and a bad odor. Vaginitis is an inflammation of the vagina. The vaginal ecosystem can also recover on its own, but often medications are used to try to strengthen the vaginal flora. For this purpose, probiotics with various types of lactic acid bacteria are administered, for example, in the form of vaginal suppositories, capsules and probiotic tampons (e.g. Ellen). Estrogens (e.g., Gynoflor), lactic acid (e.g., Vagoclyss), and glycogen are also used for support. Infections are also treated with anti-infectives.
