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Beneficial Vaginal Bacteria
The vagina contains beneficial bacteria that naturally live and maintain a healthy vaginal environment.
What is the importance of beneficial vaginal bacteria?
** Maintaining the natural vaginal pH between 3.8-4.5
** Preventing the proliferation of harmful bacteria and germs
Does the presence of beneficial bacteria prevent vaginal infections?
Yes
What is the most common type of beneficial bacteria found in the vagina?
Lactobacillus
What substances do Lactobacillus bacteria secrete to maintain a healthy vaginal environment?
** Lactic acid
** Hydrogen peroxide
** Bacteriocins (substances that help kill harmful bacteria)
What is meant by bacterial imbalance in the vagina?
This occurs when the concentration of Lactobacillus bacteria decreases and the concentration of anaerobic bacteria increases.
What are the common causes of bacterial imbalance in the vagina?
** Frequent use of antibiotics
** Hormonal changes in the blood due to menstruation or menopause
** Sexual intercourse
** Use of certain non-medical vaginal douches
** Some types of contraception, such as IUDs or spermicides
Does an imbalance of vaginal bacteria affect fertility or pregnancy?
Yes:
**Premature birth
**Miscarriages
**Infertility
**Repeated IVF failures
**Severe pelvic inflammatory disease
**Increased risk of sexually transmitted infections such as HPV and HIV
What is the effect of pregnancy on the concentration of lactobacillus bacteria?
It increases their concentration.
What treatments are used to modify the concentration of beneficial bacteria in the vagina?
**Probiotics
**Treating the sexual partner in some cases
**Some hormonal treatments, such as topical estrogen.
Dr Najeeb Layyous F.R.C.O.G
Consultant Obstetrician, Gynecologist and Infertility Specialist
