We help you decode the symptoms of vaginal flora imbalance , understand its causes and find the solution to take care of it.
Key takeaways:
- Unpleasant odors, unusual vaginal discharge, and itching are the 3 major symptoms of an imbalance.
- The causes are numerous : antibiotics, stress, sugar, or even overly aggressive hygiene.
- The best solution is to restore balance with simple actions and specific probiotics .
- Maintaining a healthy vaginal flora is key to preventing the recurrence of an infection.
The 5 main symptoms of an imbalance in the vaginal flora
What you need to know in 30 seconds:
- An unpleasant "fishy" odor , unusual vaginal discharge , and irritation are the three main symptoms.
- A burning sensation , vaginal dryness or persistent redness should alert you to your vaginal balance.
- Repeated urinary tract infections are often a sign that your vaginal microbiota is no longer playing its protective role.
Your body sends you signals. Knowing how to recognize these symptoms is the first step in taking care of your intimate health. An imbalance in the vaginal flora often manifests itself in very concrete ways in everyday life. Here's how to identify it.
1. Unusual, or even strong, intimate odors
The appearance of an unpleasant odor is a common symptom. Don't be embarrassed; it has nothing to do with poor hygiene. It's a sign that the balance of your gut microbiota is disrupted, particularly in the case of bacterial vaginosis caused by an overgrowth of Gardnerella vaginalis .
- Normal odor: Slightly acidic (related to lactic acid produced by lactobacillus) or metallic during menstruation.
- Suspicious odor: Strong, "fishy" type, more pronounced after sexual intercourse.
To find out more, we offer you our complete guide on intimate odors .
2. Changes in vaginal discharge (leukorrhea)
Vaginal discharge is a key indicator of your gynecological health. Observing its color, texture, and volume can give you valuable clues about the state of your vaginal flora . A sudden change is one of the most noticeable symptoms.
| Characteristic | Healthy Losses | Sign of Possible Imbalance |
|---|---|---|
| Color | White or transparent | Yellowish, greenish, greyish |
| Texture | Stringy or creamy | Lumpy ("curdled milk"), very liquid or frothy |
| Volume | Variable depending on the cycle | Sudden and significant increase |
3. Daily discomfort: irritation and itching
The presence of redness , irritation , or a persistent burning sensation in the vulva or vagina is never normal. It's a sign of inflammation that may be linked to an imbalance between the different microorganisms in your vaginal flora.
Did you know? Simple irritation can be caused by an unsuitable cleansing product. Intense and persistent itching accompanied by thick discharge, however, often points to a vaginal yeast infection.
4. Vaginal dryness and pain during intercourse
Vaginal dryness occurs when natural vaginal lubrication decreases. This phenomenon is directly linked to the health of your gut microbiota, as a flora rich in lactobacilli maintains a healthy mucous membrane. This symptom can make any sexual intercourse uncomfortable.
To find out more, check out our guide on vaginal dryness .
5. Recurrent urinary tract infections (cystitis)
The link between vaginal flora and urinary tract infections is now well established. An imbalance in the microbiota weakens the body's first line of defense, leaving the field open for bacteria like E. coli to ascend to the urethra and bladder.
According to several studies ( HAL, 2023 ), an imbalance of the vaginal flora is a major risk factor in the recurrence of urinary tract infections in women.
To learn more, we have written a guide on urinary tract infections .
Now that you know how to recognize these symptoms, it's time to understand what can cause them .
The root causes of intimate imbalance: why me?
The main causes at a glance:
- Taking antibiotics and certain medications is a common cause that disrupts your natural balance.
- Inadequate hygiene , such as vaginal douching, is one of the most common factors.
- An unbalanced diet (too much sugar) and chronic stress can increase the risk of imbalance.
You've identified the symptoms, but you're probably wondering, "Why me?" The answer often lies in our lifestyle . Several factors can weaken your flora vaginal. Here are the 5 main ones.
Taking antibiotics
This is a well-known cause. Antibiotics don't differentiate between good and bad bacteria; they eliminate everything in their path , including your protective lactobacilli. This effect paves the way for infections.
Aggressive intimate hygiene
Overzealousness is counterproductive. Inadequate hygiene , such as douching or using soaps with a non-neutral pH, destroys the natural protective film. Wearing tight or synthetic clothing can also play a role.
According to the WHO , vaginal douching increases the risk of bacterial vaginosis by 60%.
Stress and chronic fatigue
Stress has a direct effect on your immune and hormonal systems. Excess cortisol production can weaken your natural defenses and make your gut microbiota more vulnerable to attack.
A diet too high in sugars
An unbalanced diet , particularly one high in simple sugars, promotes the proliferation of certain microorganisms such as Candida albicans (responsible for fungal infections). This type of diet can increase the risks.
Hormonal fluctuations
Your life as a woman is punctuated by hormonal changes . The menstrual cycle, pregnancy, or menopause alter the pH and composition of your vaginal flora, which represents a key step in its potential weakening.
Understanding the cause is essential for effective treatment. Let's now look at some concrete solutions to adopt on a daily basis.
How to naturally restore the balance of your vaginal flora?
Solutions to regain your balance:
- The best prevention involves simple actions: good hygiene, a healthy diet and a calm lifestyle.
- An effective solution to help rebalance the vaginal flora is taking specific probiotics .
- The good bacteria taken orally travel from your intestine to support and maintain a balanced vaginal flora.
Good news: you can take action! Combating dysbiosis and regaining lasting comfort relies on concrete steps. In our opinion, the best approach combines healthy daily habits with targeted support for your gut microbiota.
The 3 pillars: Hygiene, Nutrition and Lifestyle
Maintaining a balanced vaginal flora starts here. Following good practices is a simple and effective preventative solution. Here are the steps to take and those to avoid.
👍 Do's: Actions that help you
- Use a mild, pH-neutral cleanser for external intimate hygiene.
- Opt for cotton underwear.
- Consume foods rich in fiber and prebiotics.
👎 Don'ts: Habits that increase the risks
- Vaginal douches that destroy the protective flora.
- A diet too rich in simple sugars.
- Prolonged wearing of tight or damp clothing.
The probiotic solution: strengthening your gut flora from within
An oral probiotic for intimate health is an excellent solution for rebalancing vaginal flora. How does it work? Certain strains of beneficial bacteria, once ingested, migrate from the gut to the vaginal area to bolster your lactobacilli .
Our expert solution
Discover Probiotics Intimate Flora , the treatment specifically designed to restore and maintain the balance of the intimate flora.
Discover Probiotics for Intimate FloraFor targeted effectiveness, choose strains whose action on the vaginal balance has been studied , such as Lactobacillus crispatus or Lactobacillus rhamnosus . They help maintain a healthy pH and compete with unwanted microorganisms.
You now have all the information you need, but perhaps you still have some questions on your mind?
FAQ – Symptoms of vaginal flora imbalance
Do you still have questions? That's normal! We've gathered the most frequently asked questions to provide you with clear and direct answers about vaginal flora imbalance .
How can I tell if my partner can influence my vaginal flora?
Yes, your partner has an impact. Sexual intercourse involves an exchange of fluids and therefore of microbiomes. The pH of semen, which is alkaline, can also temporarily alter the acidity of your vagina, creating an environment conducive to the growth of certain microorganisms.
How long does it take to rebalance your vaginal flora with probiotics?
There's no hard and fast rule, as every woman is different. On average, the first effects of a course of probiotics can appear after 2 to 4 weeks of daily use. The key is consistency for a lasting effect on vaginal balance.
Can the use of tampons or menstrual cups cause an imbalance?
The use of internal pads is not a direct cause. However, wearing them for too long increases the risk of microbial growth. Be sure to change them regularly according to the recommendations to minimize the risk of infection.
Does intense sport or swimming have an impact on intimate balance?
Yes, indirectly. Excessive sweating from exercise and tight clothing create a hot, humid environment. Chlorine from swimming pools can also be an irritant. Our advice: don't keep a swimsuit or sportswear damp for too long.
Can an imbalance in the vaginal flora resolve itself without treatment?
A mild imbalance can sometimes resolve itself. If symptoms persist, ignoring the problem is not the solution and can lead to broader health issues. It is always best to consult a professional for a proper diagnosis.
