Vaginal microbiota homeostasis

Vaginal microbiota homeostasis refers to the balanced state of the vaginal microbial ecosystem, typically characterized by dominance of *Lactobacillus* species. These bacteria ferment glycogen from vaginal epithelial cells into lactic acid, resulting in a low vaginal pH (<4.5) and the production of antimicrobial compounds. This environment suppresses pathogen colonization and supports immune regulation, host defense, and reproductive health. Dysbiosis, defined as a loss of beneficial *Lactobacillus* spp. and a rise of pathogenic anaerobes, is associated with multiple diseases including bacterial vaginosis, urinary tract infections, yeast infections, and adverse reproductive outcomes. Homeostasis of the vaginal microbiota is influenced by hormonal changes, age, ethnicity, immune status, diet, sexual activity, and drug exposures like antibiotics or estrogen.

Other names

vaginal microbiome stabilityvaginal microbial homeostasishealthy vaginal microbiota