Vaginal and lower urinary tract microbiome

The vaginal and lower urinary tract microbiome is a complex community of microorganisms that inhabit the female urogenital tract and play a pivotal role in maintaining host health. In a healthy state, the vaginal environment is typically dominated by Lactobacillus species, which produce lactic acid and hydrogen peroxide to maintain a low pH and inhibit the growth of pathogens (PubMed: 29533414). The lower urinary tract, once thought to be sterile, also harbors a unique microbial community that interacts closely with the vaginal ecosystem through anatomical proximity (PubMed: 24515005). Dysbiosis within these niches is associated with various clinical conditions, including bacterial vaginosis, recurrent urinary tract infections, and increased risk of sexually transmitted infections (PubMed: 30116502). Furthermore, imbalances in the urogenital microbiome have been linked to adverse pregnancy outcomes such as preterm birth (PubMed: 29533414). Therapeutic strategies targeting this ecosystem involve the use of antibiotics to clear pathogens or live biotherapeutic products, such as Lactobacillus-based probiotics, to restore a protective microbial balance (NEJM: 32412161). Hormonal therapies, such as estrogen, also influence this ecosystem by promoting glycogen production, which supports Lactobacillus growth (StatPearls: NBK459317). Monitoring the composition and metabolic activity of this ecosystem is crucial for the prevention and treatment of chronic urogenital diseases.

Other names

Vaginal and lower urinary tract microbial ecosystemUrogenital microbiomeVaginal microbiotaUrinary microbiotaUrogenital microbiota

Restoration of commensal microbial populations, acidification of the vaginal environment via lactic acid production, and competitive inhibition of pathogenic bacteria.