The Vaginal Microbiome: Why It Matters More Than You Think.

For many women+, vaginal health is something we’re taught to manage quietly — a topic often wrapped in shame, misinformation, or silence. But the science is clear: the vaginal microbiome is at the centre of reproductive, hormonal, sexual, and urinary health.

And it’s far more dynamic and interconnected with the rest of the body than most people realise.

A thriving vaginal microbiome isn’t just about comfort — it helps reduce infection risk, support fertility, buffer hormonal changes, and strengthen immune defences. Understanding how it works gives women+ more agency over their health, at every life stage.

What Is the Vaginal Microbiome?

The vaginal microbiome is a community of microorganisms — mainly bacteria — that work together to maintain a protective environment.
A healthy microbiome is usually Lactobacillus-dominant, meaning these beneficial bacteria help:

• keep vaginal pH slightly acidic

• block harmful microbes

• reduce inflammation

• support natural lubrication

When this balance shifts, women+ may experience symptoms like itching, odour, discharge changes, discomfort, recurrent thrush, or urinary issues.

The Gut–Vagina Connection: One System, Not Two

Emerging research shows a close connection between gut health and vaginal health through what scientists call the gut–vagina axis.
When gut bacteria fall out of balance — a state known as dysbiosis — it may influence vaginal imbalance and increase susceptibility to infection.

Why?

• Gut microbes participate in immune regulation, influencing how the body deals with pathogens.

• The gut helps metabolise oestrogen, which plays a huge role in maintaining vaginal moisture, elasticity, and microbiome stability.

• Inflammation triggered by gut imbalance may create an environment that favours harmful vaginal microbes.

For Australian women+ dealing with recurrent BV (bacterial vaginosis), thrush, or persistent irritation, assessing gut health can be an important piece of the puzzle.

Hormones and the Vaginal Microbiome

Hormonal changes throughout life dramatically shape vaginal bacteria — especially oestrogen levels. Key life phases that impact the microbiome:

• Menstruation: pH fluctuates due to blood exposure, altering bacterial composition.

• Pregnancy: Oestrogen increases, often strengthening Lactobacillus dominance.

• Perimenopause & menopause: Lower oestrogen reduces protective bacteria, making infections more common.

• Postpartum: Hormonal dips may create dryness or discomfort.

Understanding these shifts allows women+ to support their bodies compassionately, rather than fearing change.

Lifestyle Factors That Influence Vaginal Balance

Everyday habits have a bigger influence than most people realise.
Here’s what the evidence highlights:

Supports balance

• A diverse, fibre-rich diet

• Probiotic-rich foods

• Managing stress

• Regular, moderate movement

• Consistent sleep

• Cotton underwear and breathable clothing

Can disrupt balance

• Frequent antibiotic use

• Harsh soaps or scented products

• Douching (not recommended at any time)

• Tight, synthetic clothing

• High sugar diets

• Smoking

None of these factors act alone — but together, they shape the environment the microbiome lives in.

Why This Matters for Women’s Health

When the vaginal microbiome becomes disrupted, it may contribute to:

• recurrent yeast infections

• bacterial vaginosis

• urinary tract infections

• inflammation

• discomfort during sex

• fertility concerns

• pregnancy complications

Supporting the microbiome isn’t about “fixing” women’s bodies — it’s about understanding how exquisitely interconnected they are.

 How to Care for Your Vaginal Microbiome

Evidence suggests these supportive steps can help maintain balance:

-Prioritise gut health — think fibre, whole foods, and diverse plant intake
- Focus on hydration
- Use pH-balanced, unscented products (or just water)
- Consider probiotics with Lactobacillus strains if appropriate
- Support hormonal health, especially during perimenopause and menopause
- Wear breathable fabrics
- Seek care early if symptoms recur — they are not “normal” or something you just have to live with

The Elgin House Perspective

Your vaginal microbiome is not something to be embarrassed about — it is a powerful, intelligent ecosystem that deserves attention and respect.
When we understand the interplay between gut health, hormones, lifestyle, and the microbiome, we can move toward more holistic, accurate, compassionate care.

At Elgin House, we’re committed to supporting women+ with education, evidence, and empowerment — because your body is not meant to be a mystery.

 Reference Summary

• Australian Institute of Health and Welfare — Women’s Health & Infection Reports

• International Journal of Molecular Sciences — Gut–Vagina Axis Research

• Human Microbiome Journal — Vaginal Microbiome and Hormonal Influence

• Nutrients Journal — Diet, Probiotics, and Microbiome Modulation

• Frontiers in Microbiology — Lactobacillus Species and Vaginal Immunity

• Australian Women’s Health Advisory Reports — Vaginal Health & Preventative Care

(These sources inform the scientific understanding of microbiome dynamics, gut–vagina interaction, hormonal influence, lifestyle factors, and infection susceptibility.)