You may have heard that a balanced and healthy microbiome is important for well-being, from regulating the immune system to protecting the body from germs.“The microbiome is a complex and delicately balanced ecosystem composed primarily of bacteria, fungi and viruses,” explained Dr Rachel Lee, associate consultant, division of benign gynaecology, Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, National University Hospital.Different parts of the body have their own microbiomes, such as the gut, skin, mouth and genital tract.While the gut and face microbiomes are well-known, women may not be as aware of the vaginal microbiome.Dr Clara Ong, consultant obstetrician and gynaecologist at Parkway MediCentre, said a healthy vaginal microbiome is “overwhelmingly dominated by lactobacillus species”, which are common probiotic bacteria.Lactobacillus species are also prevalent in the gut, Dr Ong added.
The vaginal microbiome is dominated by lactobacillus species, which are also found in the gut. (Photo: iStock/anusorn nakdee)
The vaginal microbiome has a lower diversity of micro-organisms than the gut microbiome, said NUH’s Dr Lee.However, it is more complex than the microbiome in the other parts of the body, she added. This is because, unlike those in the skin or gut, the micro-organisms in the vagina exist in an acidic and low- or no-oxygen environment, and this in itself “makes it different and more complex”.WHY A BALANCED VAGINAL MICROBIOME IS IMPORTANT“A balanced vaginal microbiome provides protection from pathogenic (disease-causing) bacteria,” said Dr Ong.Lactobacilli help to maintain a stable immune environment in the vagina. When their numbers decrease, harmful bacteria such as Gardnerella can thrive, she added.An overgrowth of Gardnerella can lead to bacterial vaginosis, a common infection, said Dr Lee. Signs include an increase in vaginal discharge, which may be creamy, grey or greenish, as well as itching or irritation and/or a fishy or unusual odour.
