The Vaginal Flora

vaginal, or simply vaginal flora, is a real ecosystem of microorganisms that acts as a protective system against other potentially pathogenic microorganisms.

Not only does the vagina have a population of microorganisms with these functions, but also other parts of the human body: for example, similar ecosystems are found in the oral cavity, on the skin, in the intestine, etc.

, it is continuously at risk of contamination by faecal microorganisms.
Not surprisingly, it is good practice, when drying and cleaning the private parts, to always perform a movement that goes from forward to backward and not vice versa.

We must not forget that sexual intercourse also represents a possible source of contagion; moreover, the sperm, due to its slightly alkaline pH (7.4-7.6), decreases vaginal acidity, favoring the engraftment and proliferation of pathogens.

(or Doderlein bacilli), which regulate the growth of the remaining bacterial flora and hinder the colonization of the vagina by hostile germs.

These functions are due to their ability to:

• Occupy the possible sites of adhesion of the other microorganisms;
• Synthesize hydrogen peroxide (H2O2, better known as hydrogen peroxide), a molecule with direct and indirect bactericidal action (it stimulates the activity of white blood cells);
• Acidify the vaginal environment (pH 4-4.5), metabolizing glycogen and producing lactic acid.

, enterobacteria, anaerobic microorganisms, gardnerella, candida and mycoplasma.

Some of these, although potentially pathogenic, are unable to carry out their damaging action (precisely because they are kept in limited numbers by the lactobacilli and by the immune system).

However, it can happen that the "good" vaginal flora is altered, both qualitatively and quantitatively, and is thus overwhelmed by a mixed flora, rich in "bad" germs.
This condition, commonly known as bacterial vaginosis, occurs, for example, when taking antibiotics and immunosuppressive drugs, when suffering from diabetes or severe psychophysical stress.

Bacterial vaginosis is evidenced by the onset of a bad vaginal odor, sometimes associated with white-greyish and milky discharge.

Vaginosis: What To Do?

To restore the normal vaginal bacterial flora, specific products based on lactic acid (which restores an optimal pH for the proliferation of lactobacilli) and glycogen (which provides them with the nourishment necessary to grow) can be used.

There are also topical therapies based on lactobacilli and specific antibiotics for certain microorganisms.

local. We recommend the use of a soap with a physiological pH (4 or 5), while intimate deodorants and internal washing should be limited.

Avoid wearing synthetic underwear, jeans and pants that are too tight, as they retain moisture and heat, creating favorable conditions for the development of harmful microorganisms.
In addition, the constant rubbing of the garment against the genitals can cause local irritation.
Basically, therefore, it is better to choose cotton, which guarantees better transpiration than synthetic fibers.

Change panty liners frequently on flow days.

Always use a condom in occasional sexual intercourse; if an infection is suspected (signaled by symptoms such as itching and foul-smelling discharge) it is important to have sexual rest until the medical diagnosis is made and, if this is positive, until the end of any antibiotic therapy. Always extend care to your partner, even if symptom-free.

Avoid the common use of towels and underwear, at home, in the hotel, or in any other conditions.

Avoid staying long with the wet swimsuit.

Follow a healthy and balanced diet (reduce, in particular, the consumption of sweets and simple sugars); indulge in regenerating breaks from time to time and practice regular physical exercise; these small attentions to your body will be rewarded with a better immune efficacy and, consequently, with a better balance of the vaginal flora.