Dysbiosis markers - More information
Lactobacillus iners
Lactobacillus iners is commonly present in a healthy vagina but quite often recovered in high numbers in Bacterial Vaginosis (BV) too. Lactobacillus iners is a weaker lactic acid producing strain, which increases the risk of opportunistic bacteria and yeast proliferating. Increasing evidence suggests that Lactobacillus iners is a transitional species that colonises after the vaginal environment is disturbed and offers overall less protection against vaginal dysbiosis and subsequently, leads to BV, sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and adverse pregnancy outcomes. If Lactobacillus iners is detected as the main beneficial strain, we highly recommend probiotics containing stronger strain lactobacillus crispatus to optimise the microbiome.
Opportunistic yeasts
Vulvovaginal Candidiasis (VVC) occurs when yeast, commonly candida species, superficially penetrate the mucosal lining of the vagina and cause an inflammatory response. The inflammatory response results in copious thick discharge and vaginal irritation, excoriations, dysuria, itching, burning, dyspareunia (painful sex) or swelling. Some small, managed levels of yeast may be tolerable by some women, but generally over the level of five thousand genomic copies / ml yeast levels become high. In this situation we recommend interventions to lower the yeast levels, in context of symptoms and health goals.
Opportunistic anaerobic bacteria
These bacteria are generally anaerobic (multiply without oxygen), and are associated with BV if found at relatively high levels (over 1 million total genomic copies / ml). However, every individual is different, and will have different thresholds for experiencing symptoms. Bear in mind, BV only presents with symptoms in about 50% of women. In fertility cases, and other cases in which there are wider health implications, interventions may be appropriate for a level of BV associated microbes over 1 million total genomic copies / ml. These may include medical or complementary interventions, such as probiotics, diet and lifestyle advice.
Opportunistic aerobic bacteria
These bacteria are commonly associated with Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs), Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID) and pregnancy complications. For this reason, any presence of an aerobic microbe requires attention. We recommend treatment interventions to reduce or eliminate these aerobic bacteria, and importantly restore health promoting lactobacillus via probiotics and diet.
Ureaplasma and mycoplasma
Given these unique bacteria have been implicated in pregnancy complications, as well as driving urgency and frequency of urination, and a burning pain in the vagina for some, these are important microbes to be aware of if they are found to be present. We recommend considering treatment in the context of wider health goals and symptoms for these microbes. The decision to treat with antibiotics should be carefully considered due to the side effects of antibiotics, but for some women this may be necessary and advantageous
