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THE VAGINAL ECO-SYSTEM
The vaginal flora or eco-system constitutes a delicate microbial balance. The normal eco-system is characterized by mostly “good” bacteria of the Lactobacilli type and fewer “harmful” anaerobic micro-organisms like Gardnerella Vaginalis and Mobiluncus.
The “good” lactobacilli bacteria produce lactic acid which helps maintain the vaginal acidity level (pH) low and in the normal range of pH 3.8 to pH 4.5. The acidic environment makes it difficult for the “bad” micro-organisms to colonise and grow. Also, certain lactobacilli produce hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) and other compounds, often referred to as bacteriocines, that suppress the growth of “bad” anaerobic micro-organisms.
As such, a healthy and balanced vaginal eco-system, dominated by lactobacilli, plays a critical role in protection against colonisation and overgrowth of pathogenic micro-organisms, including those responsible for vaginal infections, in particular Bacterial Vaginosis.
The increasing public awareness of the drawbacks and known side effects associated with the use of conventional drugs to treat vaginal infections, has spurred an interest in alternative and natural solutions to better manage and prevent vaginal infections.
Clinical documented vaginal probiotic preparations have emerged as a promising way to restore and maintain a healthy and balanced vaginal flora, prevent vaginal infections and treat symptoms hereof.
