Here we go over how your vaginal microbiome can influence your pelvic health, in our collaborative post with Peli Health!
What is the vaginal microbiome?
The vaginal microbiome is the community of bacteria, yeast and other organisms living in your vaginal environment.
This is a dynamic environment, and can be changed by many factors including – age, diet, lifestyle, hormonal balance.
What is the pelvic floor?
The vaginal microbiome is the community of bacteria, yeast and other organisms living in your vaginal environment.
This is a dynamic environment, and can be changed by many factors including – age, diet, lifestyle, hormonal balance.
How does a healthy microbiome support pelvic wellbeing?
- Protects against infections liinked to BV & UTIS
- Reduces inflammation & Discomfort
- Supports bladder health from pathogens that can cause utis
A 2023 study found that people with imbalanced vaginal microbiomes (lower Lactobacilli levels and higher bacterial diversity) were more likely to experience pelvic organ prolapse.
How to support your microbiome for better pelvic health?
- Prioritse probiotic-rich foods e.g. yogurt
- avoid disruptive products e.g. harsh soaps
- manage stress to avoid hormonal imbalance
- stay hydrated
- approach antibiotics mindfully – these can be neccessary but should be paired with probiotics to restore the balance of healthy bacteria
What are the treatment implications?
Most treatments for pelvic organ prolapse prioritise structural support. These methods can be very effective, but do not consider the full context of what is going on, such as underlying vaginal microbiome imbalance, that could be exacerbating the issue.
This is why we need to take a holistic approach to pelvic health – addressing key pillars including both microbial and structural functions. Such an approach could provide long-term relief and solutions to pelvic health concerns, but also to other concerns such as reproductive health and fertility.
Conclusion
The connection between the vaginal microbiome and pelvic floor health is still being explored, but one thing is clear: these systems don’t work in isolation.
Addressing pelvic health means looking at the whole picture, muscle strength, microbial balance, lifestyle, and beyond.
About the collaborator/ co-author:
Peli Health is a digital health platform for women’s pelvic care. We have a deep commitment to improving education and access to care in women’s health, particularly when it comes to pelvic and intimate health. Our mission is to highlight the vital connection between your holistic health and pelvic wellness, empowering women with the knowledge and tools to take a proactive, medically approved approach to their health. By understanding all areas of our health better, and how they influence each other, we can better support pelvic floor strength, get ahead of common issues, and promote long-term well-being.
