Various microorganisms live in the human body, which help us live and help our organs function properly. The vaginal microflora of a woman of childbearing age differs in the composition of microorganisms from the flora of girls and women in menopause, since during this period the main purpose of a woman is fulfilled – the possibility of bearing and bearing children, that is, reproduction.
The predominant number of microorganisms in the vaginal microflora are normally lactobacilli. They create an acidic environment and produce antiseptic and antibacterial substances to fight dangerous (pathogenic) microbes. Also in small quantities are opportunistic microorganisms that behave neutrally in the presence of the “leader” – lactobacilli.
Which microorganisms are considered opportunistic?
🛑Anaerobes – grow in anoxic conditions. There are many in number, but the main ones are Gardnerella vaginalis and Atopobium vaginae. They practically do not grow in bacterial cultures; They are best detected by PCR.
🛑Aerobes – these are also called “ordinary flora”. They grow in conditions of access to oxygen. Well defined in flora plants
🛑 Fungi of the genus Candida
🛑Ureaplasma and Mycoplasma hominis
If the number of lactobacilli in the microflora mass decreases, opportunistic microorganisms begin to behave aggressively and, depending on which microbes are more active, can cause the following conditions:
👆Predominance of anaerobes – bacterial vaginosis
👆Aerobes – bacterial vaginitis
👆Candida – candidiasis or thrush
Ureaplasma and mycoplasma hominis – ureaplasmosis and mycoplasmosis
Why is the vaginal microflora disrupted?
Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are one of the leading causes. These are absolute pathogens. Their appearance and reproduction, in addition to a number of negative consequences, lead to the suppression of normal flora – lactobacilli and the growth of opportunistic microbes.
🌺Hormonal imbalances lead to imbalance of vaginal microflora.
🌺 Long-term antibiotic use suppresses lactobacilli not only in the intestines but also in the vagina.
🌺Frequent change of sexual partners
🌺Long-term oral contraceptive use
🌺 Anal sex