A group of scientists has called for an urgent need to map the ecosystem of a woman’s reproductive tract, known as the vaginal microbiome. The researchers believe that this knowledge is essential to address the “gender health gap” and improve women’s health outcomes.
The current understanding of the vaginal microbiome is based on studies conducted in high-income countries, but this group of scientists argues that it is necessary to study this ecosystem across cultures and ethnicities. They aim to create an “atlas” of the vaginal microbiome, which would provide a comprehensive understanding of its diverse community of bacteria, fungi, archaea, and viruses.
The researchers found that shifts in the balance of the vaginal microbiome may affect pregnancy outcomes, and studies have shown that a reduction in lactobacilli is associated with pregnancy complications. The overgrowth of anaerobic bacteria can lead to the “non-optimal vaginal microbiota condition known as BV,” which can increase the risk of other health issues.
To address this issue, the researchers propose using “vaginal microbiota transfers and vaginal live biotherapeutic products” to treat BV-associated symptoms and diseases. They also emphasize that it is essential to move beyond traditional approaches that rely solely on race as a proxy for health disparities, instead focusing on environmental, socioeconomic, and healthcare factors.
The study authors are part of a growing movement to close the “data gap” in women’s health research and promote sexual health awareness. The initiative has gained significant public support through initiatives such as citizen science projects, which involve engaging citizens in the research process.
Overall, this study highlights the importance of understanding the vaginal microbiome and its role in shaping women’s health outcomes. By mapping the vaginal microbiome, scientists hope to develop new treatments and interventions that can improve the lives of millions of women worldwide.
Source: https://interestingengineering.com/health/we-need-to-know-what-a-healthy-vagina