Exploring the Vaginal Microbiome: Implications for Health and Bacterial Vaginosis

Abstract

Introduction: The vaginal microbiome is crucial for maintaining vaginal health through the dominance of Lactobacillus species, 
which contribute to a low pH environment and inhibit pathogen colonization. Disruptions in this delicate balance can lead to 
bacterial vaginosis (BV), characterized by a shift towards higher microbial diversity and decreased abundance of Lactobacillus 
spp. BV not only impacts reproductive health but also increases susceptibility to sexually transmitted infections and adverse 
pregnancy outcomes.