The role of the vaginal microbiome in vaginal complaints
Vaginal complaints are highly prevalent in the family doctor practice. A Dutch publication from 2002 states that 40% of interviewed women had vaginal discharge in the previous week (1). International research shows that, although there is large between-country variation, the prevalence of bacterial vaginosis ranges from 5-20% in Western countries (2).
Like the gut, skin, or lungs, the vagina has its own distinct microbiome and many vaginal complaints are linked to a disturbed vaginal microbiome. For example, the most important cause of abnormal vaginal discharge, bacterial vaginosis, is characterized by vaginal dysbiosis that precedes complaints (3). When bacterial vaginosis leads to complaints, it is typically treated with antibiotics, but this has a high relapse rate (2). This is not surprising, as antibiotics can disturb the vaginal microbiome even further.
In addition to vaginal complaints, the vaginal microbiome plays a role in fertility. The chance on successful pregnancy is higher when there is a healthy, Lactobacillus-dominated vaginal microbiome (4,5).
Because many vaginal complaints are linked to vaginal dysbiosis, an intervention targeting the vaginal microbiome is desired. For this reason, Microbiome Center, together with the pharmacist and a number of doctors in our network, has developed vaginal suppositories. These contain three probiotic strains in high dose, including two Lactobacillus crispatus strains. This bacterial species is strongly associated with a healthy vaginal microbiome (3). The suppositories can be prescribed online as a set of 30 pieces and are magistrally prepared by the pharmacist.
If you want to learn more about the vaginal microbiome, its role in vaginal complaints such as bacterial vaginosis and vulvovaginal candidiasis and in fertility, and how vaginal suppositories may be used, you can join our online webinar (in Dutch) on April 20th 2023.
References:
1. https://www.henw.org/artikelen/vaginale-klachten
2. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ejogrb.2019.12.035
3. https://doi.org/10.3389/fcimb.2021.631972