The Role of the Vaginal Microbiome in Preventing and Treating Bacterial Vaginosis

Understanding Bacterial Vaginosis and Vaginal Microbiome Imbalance

Bacterial Vaginosis (BV) is the most common vaginal condition among women of reproductive age, affecting millions globally. It occurs when there is a disruption in the vaginal microbiome, allowing harmful bacteria to outnumber protective species-primarily Lactobacillus.

While not officially a sexually transmitted infection (STI), BV is strongly linked to vaginal pH imbalance, sexual activity, and poor microbiome health. Symptoms often include unusual discharge, vaginal odour, itching, or irritation.

A healthy vaginal microbiome is typically dominated by Lactobacillus species, which produce lactic acid to maintain an acidic pH (~3.5–4.5). This environment prevents overgrowth of BV-associated bacteria such as Gardnerella vaginalis, Atopobium vaginae, and Prevotella.

How the Vaginal Microbiome Protects Against BV

The vaginal microbiome functions as a dynamic defence system. Dominant Lactobacillus strains produce:

• Lactic acid – maintains low vaginal pH
• Hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂) – has antimicrobial properties
• Bacteriocins – inhibit growth of pathogenic bacteria
• Mucosal barrier reinforcement – prevents bacterial attachment

This environment naturally limits harmful species and supports immune function. However, even mild disruptions-like antibiotics, douching, smoking, or hormonal fluctuations-can tip the balance and trigger BV.

What Causes Vaginal Microbiome Imbalance?

Several lifestyle and environmental factors can alter vaginal flora:

1. Antibiotics – kill both good and bad bacteria, leading to microbial gaps
2. Douching or scented hygiene products – disrupt pH and beneficial flora
3. Unprotected sex – introduces foreign bacteria that destabilize the microbiome
4. Hormonal changes – menstruation, pregnancy, or menopause alter glycogen levels and flora diversity
5. Poor diet and high stress – weaken immune response and microbial resilience

Recognising these triggers is essential for preventing recurring BV and supporting vaginal health long-term.

Health Risks of Untreated BV

Although BV may seem like a minor issue, untreated bacterial vaginosis can lead to serious complications:

• Increased risk of STIs, including chlamydia, gonorrhoea, and HIV
• Higher likelihood of pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) and infertility
• Pregnancy complications, such as preterm birth and low birth weight
• Persistent inflammation and recurrent BV episodes

Effective prevention and long-term management rely on restoring and supporting the vaginal microbiome-not just treating symptoms.

How to Restore and Maintain a Healthy Vaginal Microbiome

Supporting your vaginal ecosystem can help prevent bacterial vaginosis and maintain intimate wellness:

• ✅ Avoid douching and over-cleansing – let the vagina’s natural self-cleaning system work
• ✅ Use pH-balanced, fragrance-free products – to protect microbial harmony
• ✅ Adopt a microbiome-friendly diet – with prebiotics (like fibre) and probiotics (yoghurt, kefir)
• ✅ Consider targeted probiotic supplements – e.g. Lactobacillus crispatus, L. rhamnosus, L. jensenii
• ✅ Limit antibiotic use when possible, and follow with microbiome recovery strategies
• ✅ Practice safe sex – to prevent introduction of disruptive microbes
• ✅ Manage stress – which affects hormonal and immune balance

These simple steps can support the long-term stability of your vaginal microbiome and reduce the risk of future infections.

Why Standard BV Treatments Often Fail

Traditional BV treatments like metronidazole or clindamycin are effective at reducing symptoms, but they often lead to recurrence because they do not restore beneficial bacteria.

Emerging strategies focus on microbiome restoration-strengthening Lactobacillus populations rather than just eliminating pathogens. New research highlights the importance of personalised, probiotic-based vaginal care for sustainable results.

Personalised Vaginal Microbiome Testing: A New Era of Care

Every woman’s microbiome is unique. What works for one individual may not work for another. That’s why vaginal microbiome testing is so valuable-it allows you to understand your specific microbial makeup and take targeted action.

At Phenome Longevity, our Vaginal Microbiome Test analyses your sample for:

• Dominant and deficient bacterial species
• Presence of BV-associated or pathogenic microbes
• Overall microbial diversity and stability
• Opportunities for probiotic and lifestyle intervention

With this data, you can take control of your intimate health, prevent recurrence, and support long-term vaginal wellness.

Why Vaginal Microbiome Balance Matters for Longevity

Your vaginal health is deeply connected to your immune system, inflammatory response, and hormonal regulation. Chronic microbial imbalance doesn’t just affect fertility or comfort-it can increase systemic inflammation, a key driver of ageing and disease.

By supporting your vaginal microbiome, you promote resilience not only in reproductive health but also in overall well-being.

Take Charge of Your Vaginal Health Today

If you’re experiencing recurring BV, discomfort, or simply want to protect your long-term vaginal wellness, now is the time to act. A vaginal microbiome test can help identify imbalances, guide personalised care, and reduce your risk of future complications.

Explore your microbiome. Protect your health. Empower your longevity-from the inside out.