This microbiome is made up of beneficial microorganisms that help maintain vaginal health.
A healthyvagina, in turn, fosters overall health, from sex tofertilityto general well-being and more.
Some supplements may help maintain the balance of the vaginal microbiome.
Getty Images / Olga Rolenko
That means some supplement products may not contain what the label says.
Getty Images / Olga Rolenko
Why Do People Use Supplements to Support Vaginal Health?
Thevaginal flora(bacteria) is mostly comprised of theLactobacillusspecies.
Sometimes, however, the vaginal microbiome can become imbalanced.
To maintain a healthy vaginal microbiome, some people turn to dietary supplements.
There is some evidence that certain supplements are beneficial for vaginal health.
Instead, dietary supplements may act as a complementary treatment for vaginal health.
Probiotics
Probioticsare commonly prescribed for gastrointestinal disorders, but they may also be beneficial for vaginal health.
According to one review, using probiotic supplements may support the vaginal microbiome and improve its immune defense.
In various studies, probiotics have been found to play a role in treating BV andvaginal atrophy.
There is also some evidence that probiotic use may slow the progression of cervical cancer.
When it comes to how to use probiotics for vaginal health, taking them orally may be best.
Research shows that zinc protects the reproductive system by acting as an antioxidant.
When used externally, zinc may improve vaginal dryness and other symptoms associated withmenopause.
More research is needed to determine if zinc can be used in other ways to promote vaginal health.
Vitamin E
Vitamin Eis one of four fat-soluble vitamins.
It also acts as an antioxidant, protecting cells and tissues from damage.
Various studies have shown possible benefits of vitamin E in vaginal changes associated with menopause.
However, researchers believe vitamin E is best used as a complementary treatment.
Compared to a placebo, vitamin E suppositories have been found to significantly improve vaginal symptoms of menopause.
According to one study, insufficient ordeficientlevels of vitamin D may increase the risk of BV.
In the study, women with BV were compared to healthy controls.
Vitamin D has also been researched for its potential role in menopause.
Both topical and oral vitamin D supplements have been found to provide benefits for vaginal health.
However, not all studies onvitamin D supplementsfor vaginal health have found positive or even consistent results.
Further research should be conducted.
Vitamin C
Vitamin Cis often considered an alternate treatment for BV and other vaginal health issues.
However, there is very little recent research to support these claims.
A 2013 study compared the effects of vitamin C to a placebo in women with recurrent BV.
Participants used suppository-style vitamin C or placebo tablets for six consecutive days per month for six months.
Vitamin C itself is acidic.
Few additional studies have been performed on vitamin C and its effects on vaginal health.
Updated research is needed.
Fish oil was also shown to improve the vaginal microbiome when combined with probiotics.
There are claims that fish oil and omega-3 fatty acid supplements may also improve vaginal dryness.
However, this claim is backed by very little research.
More research is needed to better understand how fish oil may impact vaginal health.
What Does It Mean to Have Healthy Vaginal pH Levels?
Vaginal pH determines whether your vagina is acidic, alkaline, or neutral.
Vaginal pH values tend to increase slightly as a woman enters menopause.
Causes Affecting the Vaginal Microbiome
The vaginal microbiome can change for various reasons.
The vaginal microbiome naturally changes during times of hormone fluctuations.
These include puberty, the menstrual cycle, menopause, andpregnancy.
An imbalance in the vaginal microbiome may also be the result of unprotected sex, antibiotic use, ordouching.
Can a Vitamin Deficiency Cause Vaginal Problems?
Certain vitamin deficiencies may lead to issues with your vaginal health.
Some evidence points to a vitamin D deficiency as a possible cause of BV and other vaginal health issues.
One study found that women with lower levels of vitamin D were more likely to develop BV.
Other research has found a link between low vitamin D levels and worsened menopause symptoms, including menopause-relatedheart disease.
Deficiencies in additional vitamins, minerals, and nutrients may also affect vaginal health.
However, there isn’t solid evidence that any additional deficiencies lead to vaginal issues.
To ensure vaginal health, it’s best to follow a well-balanced diet complete with all the necessary nutrients.
When to See a Healthcare Professional
Some vaginal issues warrant a visit to ahealthcare provider.
Knowing these signs and symptoms is just one way to take care of your vaginal health.
A healthcare provider will assess your symptoms and provide a treatment plan.
Treatments may include medications, at-home care, or various alternative therapies.
The risk of infections and other issues increases if the vaginal microbiome is out of balance.
Research shows that certain supplements may support the vaginal microbiome as well as other aspects of vaginal health.
However, supplements should only be used as a complementary treatment and under the guidance of a healthcare provider.
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