Bacterial vaginosis is the most common pathology of the genital tract in women of reproductive age. It is characterized by a shift from a healthy vaginal microbiome – dominated by acid-producing bacteria (healthy bacteria such as lactobacilli) to a pathological bacterial overgrowth. The most prominent and often the most disturbing symptom is a strong odor and abundant vaginal fluorine. A burning sensation when urinating, itching in the vulvovaginal area and pain during sex are other symptoms of bacterial vaginosis. Breaking the cycle of bacterial imbalance can be very difficult. Women suffering from vaginal bacteriosis have reduced levels of vaginal amylase (an enzyme that breaks down large carbohydrates into smaller ones called glycogen, which bacteria normally inhabiting the vagina use as a food source). In vaginitis, the levels of antimicrobial peptides that can fight invading bacteria are reduced. Bacterial vaginosis is three times more common in women suffering from infertility. Vaginitis and other infections in general can reduce fertility in several ways: They increase inflammation and immune system activity, creating a toxic environment for reproduction; Lead to damage to sperm and vaginal cells; Interfere with the production of healthy cervical mucus during ovulation; They block the fallopian tubes Bacterial vaginosis is associated with a two-fold increase in the risk of miscarriage, premature birth and complications in the newborn, as well as postpartum infections. In about 90% of women who are diagnosed, bacterial vaginosis develops after the loss of lactic acid-producing bacteria in the vagina. Lactic acid-producing bacteria help a healthy vagina maintain an acidic pH. The normal pH of the vagina is about 4.5. The acidic pH also supports normal exfoliation or shedding of vaginal mucosal cells, which in turn releases glycogen. Healthy bacteria are the best defense against bacterial vaginosis, so anything you do to encourage the growth of lactobacilli will be a positive step forward in the fight against bacterial vaginosis. When looking for products for intimate hygiene, it is important to choose those without glycerin (glycerol), oils or parabens. It is also important to choose products that are isotonic with vaginal cells, meaning that the salt/ion concentration of the product is the same as the vaginal tissues. Many lubricants and refreshing gels have salt concentrations that are 4 times higher than normal. Increased salt levels will draw water from the cells and have been found to permanently damage vaginal lining cells and lactobacilli. When choosing products for intimate hygiene, be sure to choose ones that have a pH no lower than 4 and no higher than about 5.5. The only exception is when you are trying to conceive, it is best to use a lubricant with a pH of 7 during ovulation,to avoid damage to the sperm. Bibliography: americanpregnancy.org