Normal and abnormal vaginal microbiota

Abstract

Abstract: The normal and abnormal vaginal microbiome are an ecosystem of up to 200 species influenced by genetic, ethnic, environmental and behavioral factors. Cultural methods release only a small clinically unimportant spectrum. Lactobacilli are the most dominant and maintain a pH value between 3.8 and 4.5. They support a defense system against dysbiosis and infections to care for a healthy outer and inner genital tract, a balanced restitution after intercourse and normal pregnancy and childbirth. Bacterial vaginosis (BV) is the most frequent dysbiosis with a lack of lactobacilli and an overgrowth of anaerobic bacteria. Special Gardnerella vaginalis strains work together with Atopobium vaginae, Clostridiales and others, but also Lactobacillus iners in a vaginal polymicrobial biofilm, which is sexually transmitted and cannot be destroyed by the recommended antibiotics.