Vaginal flora
The vaginal flora, naturally composed of microorganisms, protects the vagina against pathogenic germs. Densmore develops innovative formulas to help patients regain a balanced vaginal flora.
A protective ecosystem
Vaginal flora is a complex ecosystem composed of hundreds of bacteria species, most notably lactobacilli. These lactobacilli are often the marker of a healthy vaginal flora. In fact, their ability to form a biofilm and to locally maintain an acidic pH helps to preserve the intimate sphere from disorders1. Factors that may cause vaginal microbiota imbalances include: hormonal changes, drug treatments, partner change, stress, tobacco, etc.2
Dysbiosis and vaginal infections
An imbalance in the vaginal ecosystem is often accompanied by an increase in pH and symptoms such as unusual discharges, itching or vulvar pain3. Sexually transmitted or not, gynaecological infections are numerous and more or less benign. Vaginoses, associated with significant bacterial growth at the expense of lactobacilli, and mycosis, associated with fungal multiplication (Candida albicans)4, are among the reasons for frequent consultations.
Limitations of current treatments
The infection itself, but also the antibiotics or antifungals used to treat it, are responsible for dysbiosis. The risk of recurrence is therefore significant. It can also be amplified by the use of unsuitable hygiene products. Treatment should promote recolonisation of the vaginal sphere by the desired microorganisms as much as possible4.
Regardless of their category, products intended for intimate use must meet strict specifications for efficacy as well as protection and rebalancing of the vaginal flora. Densmore teams work with gynaecologists to provide a complete arsenal in line with their expectations.
Reference:
1. Gilbert G.G. Donders, Definition and classification of abnormal vaginal flora, Best Practice & Research Clinical Obstetrics & Gynaecology, 21, 3, 2007, pp. 355-373.
2. Gynandco, What is the role of vaginal flora?, https ://www.gynandco.fr/quel-est-le-role-de-la-flore-vaginale/
3. Ameli, Recognising vaginitis, https://www.ameli.fr/hauts-de-seine/assure/sante/themes/vaginite/definition-symptomes-facteurs-favorisants
4. Vaginosis action, Interview with Dr Jean-Marc Bohbot, infectologist and andrologist, Medical Director of the Alfred Fournier Institute, https://www.actionvaginose.fr/microbiote/