Have you heard talk about the vaginal microflora and the critical role it plays in vaginal health, but you’re not exactly sure what it is. In this article, you will learn about microflora and how it influences overall health.
What is Vaginal Microflora?
The vaginal microflora refers to the different types of bacteria and other microbes that live in the vagina. When the vagina is in a normal state, the microflora is dominated by beneficial bacteria known as lactobacilli. Lactobacilli keep the vagina healthy and maintain the delicate balance of microbes.
Why is the Vaginal Microflora Important?
Lactobacilli play a crucial role in vaginal health as they produce lactic acid and hydrogen peroxide, which help maintain the low pH of the vagina. The mildly acidic environment restricts the growth of harmful bacteria, yeast, and other pathogens. Bacteriocins provides further defense against infection and inflammation.
What Happens if the Bacterial Balance Shifts?
If the delicate balance of bacteria in the vagina is disrupted, it leads to an increase in the concentration levels of the ‘bad’ bacteria. This changes the characteristics of the secretions that usually bathe the vaginal walls.
A shift in the balance of bacteria in the vagina is known as an altered vaginal microflora pattern. The secretions from the altered vaginal microflora irritate the vestibular tissue leading to a range of symptoms including dryness, unusual discharge, sense of urinary urgency, pain with intercourse, and burning.
How Can An Altered Vaginal Microflora be Detected?
The Vaginal Fluid Analysis (VFA) test can be used to detect an altered vaginal microflora. The VFA test is an advanced diagnostic tool developed by Dr. R. Stuart Fowler, board-certified gynecologist of Fowler GYN International (FGI). It provides an analysis of the quantity and characteristics of the vaginal constituents.
How is an Altered Vaginal Microflora Treated?
Dr. Fowler treats an altered vaginal microflora pattern with rejuvenate therapy. This is a customized treatment protocol that involves a combination of medications and skincare products. The medications included will be determined by the results of the VFA test.