A range of micro-organisms, both good and bad, make up the vaginal micro-flora. When the bacteria are in balance the vagina is in a healthy state, but this can quickly change if the bacteria gets out of balance. But what is the difference between good and bad vaginal bacteria.
Good and bad vaginal bacteria
The lactobacilli strain of bacteria in the vagina is considered the good or beneficial bacteria. The lactobacilli helps to keep the bad bacteria in low concentration, thereby preventing them from causing harm.
The lactobacilli function to “sterilize” the vagina. They produce lactic acid, which is needed to maintain the naturally acidic pH of the vagina. Some of the bad bacteria will not thrive within the acidic environment. Lactobacilli also produce hydrogen peroxide which is toxic to many bad bacteria. Lactobacilli also produce a number of bacteriocins which inhibit the growth of specific bacterial strains. And finally, lactobacilli in normal pre-menopausal conditions are numerous enough to coat the vaginal walls to the degree that makes it difficult for the bad bacterial to adhere to the vaginal wall.
If the levels of normal bacteria get too low, the defense mechanism of the vagina is compromised, and this can lead to a range of altered vaginal microflora patterns. These conditions are characterized by vaginal burning, itching, swelling, discharge, odor and /or frequency and urgency to urinate.
Who has expertise to treat shift of bacterial milieu?
If you think that you may be suffering from a bacterial imbalance, contact Board Certified Gynecologist Dr. R. Stuart Fowler at Fowler Gyn International, Phoenix, AZ, for a consultation. They are experts in vulvovaginal conditions, and will be able to accurately diagnose your condition, and recommend a treatment protocol. Call them today at (480) 420-4001 for a consultation or register online at FowlerGynInternational.com.