Opportunistic bacteria

Unlike in the gut microbiome where diversity is viewed as health promoting, the vaginal canal is negatively impacted in cases of high diversity. Opportunistic microbes can take advantage of a decrease in lactobacillus and their associated anti-microbial bacteriocins. A polymicrobial environment with reduced Lactobacillus species is characteristic of vaginal dysbiosis, associated with increased production of short chain fatty acid (SCFA) producing bacteria and vaginal inflammation. 

Diversity of opportunistic bacteria requires further investigation to assess for conditions such as Bacterial Vaginosis (BV) or Aerobic Vaginitis (AV). These conditions have health consequences. As diversity and volume of opportunistic species increases, so too does the risk for a pro-inflammatory environment, increased pH (higher than 5.0), loss of barrier integrity and an abnormal discharge and smell.

The following classifications have been made and individual test results will be allocated one of the following:

> 4 Opportunistic microbes: LOW

This indicates low microbial diversity which is mostly associated with a healthy microbiome. Please check quantification of opportunistic microbes present, alongside other markers for further insight.

4 - 8 Opportunistic microbes: MEDIUM

This indicates medium microbial diversity. Please check quantification of opportunistic microbes present, alongside other markers for further insight.

> 8 Opportunistic microbes: HIGH

This indicates high microbial diversity. Please check quantification of opportunistic microbes present, alongside other markers for further insight.