As humans, many different microbiomes call our bodies home. We know all about the gut and skin microbiomes, taking care to balance and maintain them for optimum digestion and radiant skin. But we often forget about the vaginal microbiome, which plays an integral part in keeping the vaginal area happy and healthy. 

As Beatrice Thorne from Eve explains, a microbiome is essentially a community of microbes living together in a particular habitat. The vaginal microbiome affects our ability to fight off infections like candida, thrush, bacterial vaginosis, the risk of contracting an STI, and the likelihood of a successful pregnancy. We talk to Thorne to find out more. 

When is our vaginal microbiome likely to be under threat? 

It’s important to nurture the balance between ‘good’ and ‘bad’ bacteria in the vaginal microbiome. By doing so, we can discourage bad bacteria, including yeasts like candida, and microbes associated with infections, for example, bacterial vaginosis. 

These bacterias thrive in hot, damp, and dark environments, which is why they love summer! Think wearing wet togs on a hot beach or sweating during an exercise session while wearing synthetic activewear. 

Yeasts also love to feast on sugar. If you’re prone to thrush and you have a sweet tooth, you may find that you benefit from cutting down your sugar intake. 

Lastly, pregnancy is a time of transformation for the vaginal microbiome, and expectant mothers may notice more infections and itches. 

What are your top tips for maintaining a healthy vaginal microbiome? 

My first piece of advice is to pee after sex! Secondly, avoid lounging around in your wet togs or sweaty underwear. We’ve all been there, but it’s essential to jump into the shower straight after exercise to freshen up. Thirdly, probiotics are a fantastic way to support a balanced vaginal microbiome and are also recommended to be taken during pregnancy.