Fempower Health | A Women's Health Podcast

Vaginal Microbiome Science: Key Ingredients for Vaginal Health | Dr. Beth DuPriest

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Apr 25, 2023

Join Dr. Beth DuPriest, Chief Science Officer at Vaginal Biome Science, as she dives into the fascinating world of the vaginal microbiome. With over 20 years in women's health research, she discusses the crucial role of lactobacillus bacteria and how to maintain a balanced vaginal environment. Learn about the do's and don'ts of bacterial vaginosis, the importance of choosing the right lubes, and why douching can be harmful. Dr. DuPriest also offers valuable tips for navigating the complex landscape of vaginal care as science evolves.

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INSIGHT

Key Features of Healthy Vagina

A healthy vagina has a thick epithelium, mostly lactobacillus bacteria, and an acidic pH around 4.
The acidity is due to lactic acid produced by lactobacilli, essential for vaginal health.

INSIGHT

Estrogen Shapes Vaginal Microbiome

Estrogen levels drive vaginal microbiome changes across the menstrual cycle and woman's life.
Higher estrogen supports healthy lactobacilli, while low estrogen (menopause, lactation) reduces them.

ADVICE

Choose Vaginal Probiotics Wisely

Use vaginal probiotics over oral probiotics for vaginal health.
Look for species normally found in the vagina: Lactobacillus crispatus, gasseri, and ginsengii.

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The gut microbiome has been a hot topic in science over the years. But what does science know about the vaginal microbiome and its effect on women’s health?

In this episode, Dr. Beth DuPriest joins us to share the emerging findings on the vaginal microbiome. We discuss everything from vagina probiotics to estrogen and lube to vaginal steaming. Whether you want to know what lube is best for women or you’re curious about everyday vaginal care, this episode is for you.

Dr. DuPriest is the Chief Science Officer at Vaginal Biome Science which facilitates a collaborative working environment to advance the work and discovery of the vaginal microbiome. DuPriest is a former Professor of Biology and Division Dean at Warner Pacific University. She has been involved in research related to the developmental origins of health and disease for over twenty years, with an extensive background in women’s health and biological sciences.

Discussed in this episode:

What is the vaginal microbiome?
How the vagina changes over a woman’s lifetime
Probiotics for vaginal health
How to keep your vagina healthy
Bacterial vaginosis (BV) and the top do’s and don’ts
How lube can impact vaginal health (and ingredients to avoid)
The differences between regular lube, natural lube, and fertility lubricant
Vaginal douching: is it good or bad?
How should the vagina smell when it’s healthy?
Choosing to care for your vagina while science changes

“Paying attention to what your philosophy of healthcare is, and finding a practitioner who works with you… is important. Paying attention to what your body is telling you, in spite of your philosophy, is also important.” - Dr. Beth DuPriest

Related to this episode:

Vaginal Microbiome Science: www.vaginalbiomescience.com
Good Clean Love (Organic Lube): www.goodcleanlove.com
Related Episode: Products That Affect the Vaginal Microbiome | Apothercare
Related Episode: Lube and Your Vagina | Suzanne Munson
Related Episode: Uterine and Vaginal Health | Nicole Kruck
Resources and episodes on the Gut and Vaginal Microbiome

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