Vaginal Complaints

This page is lengthy, but I created it in this format to minimize the need for you to bounce around to find the information you're seeking. The information below focuses primarily on providing holistic alternatives for vaginitis and vaginosis. However, it also provides an overview of various vaginal complaints, symptoms, and causes, which are often healed similarly through proper nutrition and stress management.

Vaginitis & Vaginosis

 

The two most common vaginal complaints are Vaginitis and Vaginosis. Any word condition that ends in "itis" refers to some inflammation. There is a difference between Vaginitis and Vaginosis. It's essential to understand the difference, or you will get sucked into paying an arm and a leg for e-books and remedies that will not affect your vaginal infection, except, perhaps, to make it worse.

 

Vaginitis and Vaginosis are not the same conditions at all. Vaginitis is a fungal infection commonly known as a Yeast Infection. Yeast infection can attack any body part, including the vagina (and, in men, the penis). Vaginosis is a bacterial infection commonly referred to as BV. What works to cure one person will not work for another. Sometimes, Vaginitis is incorrectly classified under the "vaginitis" umbrella. However, False information prevents timely cures due to incorrect terminology. Some people are touting symptom relief, and natural remedies for bacterial vaginosis offer products that treat yeast infections, not bacterial infections. Products for yeast infections will not cure bacterial infections.

 

 

Vaginal pH & Over-the-Counter Vaginal Products FYI

 

Vaginal infection screening kits can measure your vaginal pH and may be less expensive than co-pays at your doctor's office. They are available at your local drugstore for about $15. They will do nothing to cure you, but can tell you if you have a vaginal pH issue. However, here's the thing. A vaginal pH above 4.5 often tests positive for a bacterial pathogen in premenopausal women. Meaning pH isn't all that predictive for postmenopausal women. If you are postmenopausal, your pH may appear balanced, but you could still have a yeast or bacterial infection.

 

While there are numerous yeast infection products available over the counter, bacterial infection products are relatively scarce. Always read the fine print. Most products claiming to cure bacterial infections refer to yeast infections (Vaginitis). Products for yeast infections will not cure bacterial infections (Vaginosis). The most touted cures for Bacterial Vaginosis (BV) are supplements rather than ointments or creams, and they can be pretty expensive. 

 

 

Symptoms of Vaginitis & Vaginosis

 

Vaginitis (yeast infection) typically produces a lumpy, white discharge and swelling of the vulva. On the other hand, Bacterial Vaginosis (BV) has a yogurt-like or pasty discharge that is yellow or gray and smells a bit fishy, especially during and after intercourse.

 

Both Vaginitis and Vaginosis can cause itching, burning, and pain during intercourse. Other related vaginal complaints may include vaginal stinging, rawness, unusual discharge or odor, lumps, or bumps on the labia that itch and disappear like hives. Some women experience lower back pain and swollen lymph nodes on the insides of their thighs.

 

Sore, raw, red patches of skin on the labia or just inside the vaginal opening may also be related to Vaginal Atrophy associated with Vulvodynia (see below). Any blisters that itch, burn, sting, or ache may also be related to genital herpes (HSV-2).

 

 

Possible Causes of Vaginosis & Vaginitis

 

While an overgrowth of fungus commonly causes Vaginitis, the most common cause of Vaginosis is an overgrowth of the bacterium Gardnerella, which is a bacterium naturally found in the vagina. Its excess is caused by a decline in lactobacillus bacteria in the vagina, allowing other natural organisms to multiply rapidly. These different types of bacteria may include Escherichia coli, Mycoplasma, Streptococci, and Staphylococci. 

 

Vaginitis and Vaginosis can be transmitted sexually, although not necessarily. Men can be carriers of both without having any symptoms. However, it's important to note that Vaginitis and Vaginosis can develop independently due to stress, diet, sexual partner, and environmental toxins.

 

The following is a list of items or activities that can trigger or exacerbate both conditions.

 

  • Both vaginal complaints are caused by a decrease in lactobacilli (good bacteria) in the vagina. Decreased healthy bacteria in the vagina are often associated with an imbalanced gut microbiome.
  • Sensitivity to deodorants, soaps, fragranced douches, feminine products, laundry detergent, dyed toilet paper, perfumes, body washes, excessive washing, or being sexually intimate with a partner engaging in these things can cause infection. Avoid using chemicals and household cleaning products that are not environmentally friendly.
  • Sex without proper lubrication irritates the vaginal lining.
  • Using Vaseline or fragranced products vaginally.
  • Switching sexual partners
  • Reactions to natural chemicals in plant foods, especially oxalates
  • Wearing tight clothing that doesn't allow the vaginal area to breathe.
  • Sitting for more than 75% of the day, especially on hard surfaces, can lead to muscle tension and abnormalities. It also prevents your vagina from becoming dry, maintaining a dark, moist, and warm environment that is conducive to bacterial growth. Again, lack of oxygen. Your vagina has to "breathe".
  • STIs (Sexually Transmitted Infections), such as the Herpes Simplex Virus
  • Fluctuating hormone levels due to stress, menstruation, pregnancy, or menopause
  • The use of antibiotics and over-the-counter medications may also cause Vaginitis or make things worse. Ask your doctor about choices if a particular product seems to cause you problems.
  • Sugar Disease 
  • Vitamin deficiency
  • Negative emotions, anxiety, and nervous tension (all upset the hormonal balance)
  • Poor sleeping habits
  • Food allergies or sensitivities, dehydration, and an unbalanced diet
  • Fibromyalgia Syndrome or Sjogren's Disease may also cause vaginal dryness, burning, redness, tenderness, and patchy areas.
  • It is now thought, in some circles, that viruses (including HSV) can cause bacterial infections.
  • Bacteria or parasites that have migrated to the vaginal area. 
  • An overabundance of iron in the body can aggravate a vaginal infection. Infectious bacteria thrive on iron. When you have a bacterial infection, your body will try to hide excess iron in your liver, spleen, and bone marrow. So, if you have a bacterial infection, limit your iron intake until you have rid yourself of the infection.
  • Surgeries and other traumas to the lower back may also cause this condition by weakening body structures so that the tissue cells of your vagina lack oxygen.
  • Myofascial Pain Syndrome, muscle tension, or muscle abnormalities in the pelvic floor can lead to a lack of blood flow and oxygen to the vaginal tissues, resulting in symptoms.

 

 

Spiritual/Psychological Causes of Vaginal Dis-Ease: Fear of intimacy, not necessarily just physical intimacy, but emotional intimacy.  

 

 

Vaginal Complaints

 

Gardnerella vaginalis, as previously mentioned, is typically associated with Bacterial Vaginosis, which is usually caused by the overgrowth of the bacterium Gardnerella vaginalis. Gardnerella is a healthy vaginal bacterium that tends to overgrow when there is an insufficient amount of lactobacilli in the vagina. Gardnerella is not a harmful bacterium, but other bacteria overgrow along with it, protect it, and create symptoms such as Vaginitis or Vaginosis. In essence, Bacterial Vaginosis is a polymicrobial infection involving more than one bacterium.

 

Cytolytic vaginosisis an uncommon vaginal complaint. It occurs when there are too many lactobacilli in the vagina. When lactobacillus overgrows, it creates redness, itching, burning upon urination, and pain upon entry during intercourse. Its symptoms are similar to those of Vulvodynia.

 

Trichomoniasis is an infection that can occur when bacteria enter the vagina from the rectum through the vaginal opening, as the rectum is in proximity. It can be sexually transmissible. There is usually a very itchy, foul, fishy-smelling discharge.

 

Atrophic Vaginitis is an irritation and inflammation of the vaginal lining caused by a decrease in estrogen, which may be evident during post-menopause and after childbirth (postpartum). The vaginal lining, including the opening, becomes thinner and drier, making the vagina susceptible to infection and disease. This vaginal complaint can cause so much pain during intercourse that many women become sexually disabled. There is usually no discharge unless a secondary infection occurs.

 

Vulvodynia (sometimes called Vestibular Adenitis) is often confused with other conditions that share similar symptoms, including irritation and pain, such as Atrophic Vaginitis or Cytolytic Vaginosis. Mainstream medical practitioners do not entirely understand the root of the matter, but it has been proven not to be hormone-related. Vulvodynia causes redness, irritation, itching, pain, and moderate to severe pain with intercourse, but symptoms do not necessarily include discharge. A possible cause of Vulvodynia is sensitivity to a food or drink, such as a diet high in oxalates, which can irritate the skin it comes into contact with. High levels of uric acid can also cause Vulvodynia. Gluten sensitivity can cause all the symptoms of Vulvodynia, Atrophic Vaginitis, and Dyspareunia. It may also create an environment for Vaginitis and Bacterial Vaginosis infections to flourish. Vulvodynia may be related to Myofascial Pain Syndrome (muscle tension) in the lower back or pelvic floor. If you have irritation and pain, along with a discharge, you may be dealing with more than one condition or have Vulvovaginitis, which means inflammation or infection of the vulva and outer vagina.

 

Dyspareunia is the term for painful intercourse. There are many reasons for painful intercourse, including psychological reasons and any of the conditions mentioned above, which are incredibly frustrating. This condition may also be related to Pelvic Floor Dysfunction or Myofascial Pain Syndrome (or both).

 

 

Vaginal Complaints Related to Sexual Activity

 

If you are sexually active and, after having been with your male partner, you experience a yeast or bacterial infection, you might be sensitive to his sperm, which is more alkaline than the normal acidic pH of your vagina. Sometimes, sperm can throw off vaginal pH. Men often carry bacterial microbes in their urethra without ever having symptoms. Look for redness, irritation, or a scaly appearance on the head of the penis. Also, there may be a fishy or yeasty smell. Men can and should be treated for bacterial infection as well. So you know, an overgrowth of healthy bacteria can occur even in men and women who are not sexually active. Virgins can also suffer from genital infections. 

 

 

Vaginitis (Candida)

 

Vaginitis, as previously stated, is more commonly known as a Yeast Infection. It is also known as Candida. Candida is a natural organism found in the body. Its overgrowth can cause Vaginosis when the vaginal environment has been upset. When there's a lack of vaginal lactobacilli in the vagina, a yeast infection can evolve without sexual relations. However, it can be transferred sexually, especially when a male partner's penis foreskin is still intact.

 

Candida infections are typically found in the mouth (Thrush), under the breasts, in the gut, groin area, and vaginally (Vaginitis), where it thrives in warm, moist environments. It can become systemic, spreading throughout the entire body via the bloodstream.

 

Men can also have yeast and bacterial infections on the extremities of the penis. Candida (a type of fungus) can appear almost anywhere in or on the body and cause and mimic nearly all stress syndromes. The list of symptoms for Candida is almost endless. 

 

 

 

Possible Causes of Candida Over-Growth (and Vaginitis)

 

 

 

Spiritual/Psychological Causes of Candida: There are ways you are not supporting yourself as well as you could be, causing anger and frustration. You may not trust your relationships with others, making you rather demanding or withholding from others. 

 

 

Bacterial Vaginosis (BV)

 

Lab test results often list Gardnerella vaginalis overgrowth as a contributing factor to Bacterial Vaginosis. As mentioned, Gardnerella is a helpful bacterium naturally found in the vagina, which overgrows when there's insufficient lactobacilli in the vaginal microbiome. Lactobacilli help create vaginal lactic acid and H2O2 (a natural form of hydrogen peroxide produced in the body), which raises pH levels to protect the vagina from the overgrowth of natural bacteria. A decrease in lactobacilli can cause both Vaginitis (yeast infection) and Bacterial Vaginosis, which can hide under biofilm and be challenging to treat.

 

Whether bacteria or fungi overgrow is often influenced by migrating microbes or particles. It's not the fault of the Gardnerella bacteria that the infection occurs. Gardnerella alone causes no infection. Vaginitis and Bacterial Vaginosis are polymicrobial infections, meaning more than one microbe is involved. For example, bacteria can migrate from the rectum to the opening of the vagina or be transmitted sexually.

 

Hygiene products containing fragrances may also upset the vaginal environment, leading to infection. Diet, lifestyle, toxins, stress, and exercise (or lack thereof) also affect the vaginal environment. So, it's these other overgrowths or additions, along with Gardnerella, that, together, overpopulate the vagina and create Vaginitis, Bacterial Vaginosis, and possible secondary infections.

 

When vaginal lactobacilli decrease, vaginal pH also lowers, allowing infections to thrive. The longer an infection exists, the more populated it becomes. Vaginitis is relatively easy to treat. However, in the case of Vaginosis, the microbes eventually form a resistant biofilm community of bacterial organisms, encapsulated, protected from, and resistant to antibiotics, H2O2 (natural hydrogen peroxide), and lactic acid. At this point, the vagina has no defense.

 

 

The Problem with Treating Biofilm Communities

 

What is a biofilm, you ask? This is a question people living with herpes often ask. Imagine a group of bacteria huddled together under a turtle shell-like covering, a protective bubble. The Herpes Simplex Virus does this very thing. Now imagine this tiny bubble attached to your vaginal wall. Imagine thousands and millions of them. Now, envision these bubbles having an outer protective armor against antibiotics. During antibiotic treatment, the biofilm, which serves as armor, is in place, and the bacteria enter a dormant state. It gets even better. When treatment is over, the biofilm is retracted (for lack of a better term), and the bacteria continue to multiply, resulting in the development of new symptoms. By the way, the Herpes Simplex Virus also hides under a biofilm, which is how it hides from your immune system. 

 

 

The Only Time an Antibiotic Will Work to Cure BV 

 

Treating Bacterial Vaginosis (sometimes called Nonspecific Vaginosis) is like finding the right key to unlock a door. For an antibiotic to work, the infection must be the first occurrence of Bacterial Vaginosis (BV), short-lived, and treated early enough with a substantial population of lactobacilli left in the vagina before the biofilm community is established, which means treatment will only work if you immediately rush to the doctor at the first sign of symptoms (that you have never had before) antibiotics may work. Why? Because no biofilm exists. The vaginal pH is still normal. The bacteria are still free-floating. Once the biofilm is in place, there's hardly a chance an antibiotic will serve any purpose. Antibiotics can't penetrate the biofilm once it forms.

 

Once an antibiotic is unsuccessful, it will likely never work because the biofilm becomes even more resistant, resulting in recurring infections. It's not that an antibiotic cures you. The biofilm becomes dormant during treatment and then resurfaces afterward, providing temporary relief from symptoms.

 

Here's something to think about. Antibiotics kill all lactobacilli left in the vagina during treatment. If prevention and successful treatment depend on a significant amount of lactobacilli in the vagina, what is the chance that antibiotics will help end a BV cycle? Furthermore, following antibiotic treatment, the first lactobacilli to reappear in the vagina are Lactobacillus iners or L. iners. This particular type of lactobacilli isn't very strong. It seems near hopeless.

 

 

When Preparing for Surgery or Whenever You Need to Take Antibiotics

 

Start taking acidophilus supplements 2-4 weeks before surgery and continue through the duration of antibiotics (and for at least three weeks after) to support gut health.

 

 

The Dangers of Bacterial Vaginosis 

 

The danger of BV is that the infection may spread to organs in neighboring areas, causing Pelvic Inflammatory Disease and increasing fertility problems or the chance of miscarriage. It should be reassuring to know that, generally, physicians agree that Bacterial Vaginosis (BV) can't cross the barrier of the vaginal wall and become systemic. Meaning it cannot enter the bloodstream through the vaginal wall.

 

 

The War Against BV

 

The war against BV is essentially a war against biofilm. There must be a way to reach the microbes beneath the biofilm armor. Right? Well, there are enzymes known to render biofilms sensitive to H2O2 and lactic acid, so the microbes gathered under the biofilm can be destroyed. However, the problem is that these enzymes have not yet been disclosed or made publicly available by the medical community. So far, only these experimental prescription drugs can do this, but they're unavailable.

 

Just as in the treatment of Vaginitis, there are particular probiotics, meaning pro-life, that can kill and remove the organisms responsible for Bacterial Vaginosis. They are lactobacillus reuteri (RC-14), which destroys it, and lactobacillus rhamnosus (GR-1), which removes it. L. plantarum is another essential probiotic. Another lactobacillus that may be beneficial is L. crispatus, also known as CTV-05. Acidophilus, although it is unable to significantly impact the biofilm, can establish a population quickly. When L.reuteri, L. rhamnosus, and L. acidophilus are taken orally or applied to the vagina, they help increase vaginal lactobacilli.

 

Furthermore, the acid balance (pH) of the vagina must be maintained to prevent harmful bacteria from taking over again. Lactobacilli in the vagina are responsible for creating this acid balance. One way to increase acid levels in the vagina is to douche with grapefruit seed extract, a multipurpose germ killer or antibiotic for yeast, viruses, and bacteria. It is non-toxic and has little to no side effects. However, 3-5% of all people may be sensitive to acids.

 

During my research, I discovered that a deficiency in certain enzymes, particularly protease, which helps to digest the protein you eat, contributes to more frequent bacterial, viral, and fungal infections. Therefore, protease enzymes are recommended as the first part of the "cure" for BV. There are several enzyme products on the market. Some help with digestion, while others are whole-body enzymes. Wobenzyme-N is a whole-body enzyme supplement that supports the immune system and helps reduce inflammation. It helps the body fight off bacteria, fungi, and viral infections. It has been the most studied and is very effective.

 

 

Regarding Vaginitis, Vaginosis & Hormones

 

As hormones rise, fall, and swim away, the vaginal environment changes. Many women have problems with BV or yeast infection around their menses because of hormonal changes in the body. Fluctuating hormones during PMS and menopausal stages affect the natural bacteria in the vagina. Once the vaginal flora's balance is upset, certain bacteria can overgrow, causing vaginal complaints. 

 

Estrogen dominance can play a factor during the menopausal stages. You may not have as much estrogen as you used to, but if your progesterone levels are lower than your estrogen levels, you are considered estrogen-dominant. Estrogen dominance causes hot flashes, vaginal dryness, mood swings, and other menopausal symptoms.

 

Hormonal changes can cause vaginal atrophy, thinning of the vaginal lining, and muscle tone reduction, which can be a reason for being unable to control vaginal and bladder infections. Hormonal imbalance is almost always a factor in recurring BV in menopausal women.

 

Natural estrogen or progesterone creams or oils may help heal and plump up vaginal tissues when applied to the vaginal labia. Hormonal creams can be used with lactobacilli therapies (prebiotics and probiotics). The hormonal cream will not cure BV, but can restore hormonal balance to the vagina, which may serve to relieve the infection in time. 

 

Taking or applying estrogen and progesterone when using hormonal therapy can be a holistic alternative for some. Estrogen levels in the body that far exceed progesterone only cause more adverse symptoms. Of course, you should start by having your hormone levels tested before beginning any new therapy. Increasing phytoestrogens in your diet can help minimize menopausal symptoms and balance the vaginal flora. Fennel, anise, ginseng, alfalfa, dong quai, and red clover are touted to offer good results.

Holistic Alternatives for Vaginal Health

How Diet Plays a Role in Recovering From Vaginal Complaints

 

If you've been reading up to this point, you know that a lack of lactobacilli and other beneficial bacteria in the vagina can cause Vaginitis (a fungal infection) and Bacterial Vaginosis (a bacterial infection). Therefore, treating them through the diet is the same. An unhealthy diet wreaks havoc on the body, not to mention the mind and spirit as well.

 

 

What to Avoid In Your Diet

 

  • Avoid eating refined carbohydrates, sugar, and foods with added sweeteners, and opt for a diet rich in sweet fruits instead.
  • Avoid citrus and other acidic foods until all inflammation and infection are gone.
  • Avoid prepared and prepackaged foods. 
  • Eliminate or drastically reduce the use of refined, bleached, or chemically treated flour. Flour is often a problem as it contains gluten, a family of proteins that cause unwanted vaginal symptoms. Avoid gluten in grains like oats, wheat, barley, millet, and rye. As long as you have no sensitivity to gluten, bread made from sprouted grain is better for you than bread made from white flour. You might try Ezekiel. 
  • Avoid eating meat that contains synthetic hormones or chemicals. Reduce your consumption of red meat to no more than twice a week, or opt for organic meat from a local butcher instead.
  • Avoid unhealthy fats and replace them with healthy fats that contain omega-3s (essential fatty acids), such as olive oil and walnuts.
  • Avoid dairy products unless they are organic or unflavored yogurt or milk. Limiting dairy consumption is preferable. When choosing dairy products, opt for high-quality options, such as organic, plain yogurt and kefir. Better yet, choose rice or almond milk for cereal and cooking. Supplement only with Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium probiotics.
  • Avoid nut butters, pickles, mushrooms, soy sauce, vinegar, and any food that contains MSG.
  • Coffee and tea, consumed in excess, contribute to body acidity, which can lead to further imbalances in the body's microbiome.

 

 

What To Include In Your Diet

 

Following a more alkaline diet than an acidic one will help your body function optimally. Eat more live, fresh, whole, plant-based foods. These foods contain the enzymes, nutrients, and fiber our bodies cannot produce and are necessary for proper cell functioning.  

 

Ensure you are getting enough essential fatty acids in your diet by consuming fish, walnuts, and ground flaxseed, or by taking a fish or krill oil supplement. It may be beneficial for you to take evening primrose oil.

 

Drink plenty of pure water.

 

Allergies to foods and additives may also cause Vaginitis. You may want to consider getting tested for allergies, which involves a series of tiny needle pricks containing allergens. Your arm is then checked for any skin reactions to the allergens. Rarely does anyone react more severely than a bit of redness, but be sure to ask your doctor if you have concerns about known allergies that cause you considerable problems. If you know you have issues with allergies, taking quercetin can help reduce your histamine levels. 

 

 

Vitamins & Supplements for Vaginal Health

 

  • Vitamin A (no more than 8,000–10,000 IU of Vitamin A per day, especially if pregnant or nursing), or beta-carotene. Vitamin A nourishes epithelial tissues, which make up the lining of the vagina. Vitamin A deficiencies can be caused by malabsorption or by not eating dark leafy greens, deep or bright fruits, carrots, yellow vegetables, egg yolk, liver, or fish liver oil. Vitamin A deficiency also causes dry eyes and skin, as well as night blindness.

 

  • Probiotics are excellent for maintaining digestive health and promoting the balance of the entire digestive tract, including the gut and colon. Often, harmful bacteria cross the vaginal barrier from the large intestine and colon or the rectum to the vagina. Maintaining a healthy digestive system can reduce the likelihood of this issue. Research indicates that two specific probiotics help maintain vaginal health: L. rhamnosus (Lactobacillus) and L. reuteri (also known as L. reuteri). You need at least 2.5 billion live bacteria for them to be effective at preventing bacterial and yeast infections in the gut. Make sure the supplement you take contains 'live' bacteria. If you have recurring Bacterial Vaginosis, eating yogurt or swallowing acidophilus products for vaginal issues is not enough. Consuming one probiotic drink or food per day, such as plain organic yogurt or kefir, would also be beneficial. Lactobacillus vaginal inserts may help directly restore the natural lactobacillus bacteria in the vagina, helping to restore vaginal flora and pH. Note: If you have IBS or Histamine Intolerance, avoid fermented foods, such as kefir. However, when you live with HSV and Histamine Intolerance, you'll also want to avoid taking probiotics that raise histamine levels. 

 

  • B Complex and folic acid help to create new healthy cells and cleanse the blood. Many women with vaginal problems are deficient in folic acid (also called folate or folacin) and B vitamins in general. Some Highly Sensitive Women say that once they restored levels of folic acid, their vaginal problems disappeared. Folic acid lowers homocysteine levels, which can prevent bone loss (particularly in the lower spine and hips) and may also reduce the risk of Parkinson's Disease. BV can be caused by stress and being over-taxed emotionally, which depletes the body of folate. Folic acid also works with serotonin and norepinephrine in the brain to relieve hot flashes and flushes in post-menopausal women. Take no more than 1000 mcg daily (divided into smaller daily doses) for seven days. Then reduce the amount to between 400 and 800 mcg per day. You can try not taking it once symptoms subside, but you will want to continue if symptoms return. Folic acid is naturally found in leafy vegetables, citrus fruit, whole grains, and legumes, but these foods may not deliver the desired dose. It is also found in foods labeled "enriched". However, these are often not necessarily nutritious, such as fortified breakfast cereals, white rice, bread, flour, pasta, and cornmeal. A 50 mg B-complex supplement is recommended, along with folic acid. Note: Taking Folic Acid with vitamin B-12 (or, better yet, a B-complex) is imperative. Folic acid may hide a B-12 deficiency and worsen the effects of an underlying B-12 deficiency. Older adults taking high folic acid dosages without B-12 can suffer cognitive disorders from underlying B-12 deficiency. Folic acid can correct Anemia associated with a B-12 deficiency, but not nerve damage. Permanent nerve damage can occur if the B-12 deficiency is not treated, along with folic acid deficiency. The chance of folic acid becoming toxic in the body is very slim, as it's water-soluble and quickly leaves the system through urine. However, excessive folic acid intake may be harmful in some instances. Supplementing with additional folic acid in the final trimester of pregnancy is not recommended. You should be getting enough folic acid in your prenatal vitamins. If, for any reason, you are not on prenatal vitamins, a total of 800 mcg per day is the suggested dose for pregnant women and those under 18 years of age. Talk to your doctor if you take seizure, anti-malarial, or ischemic heart medication. Allergic responses, such as breathing problems, hives, rash, or chest pain, may occur if you exceed the recommended dose of 1000 mcg. WARNING: Don't take folic acid if you have the MTHFR Gene Mutation. Instead, take methyl folate, which your body can use. 

 

  • Vitamin C helps increase the vagina's natural production of hydrogen peroxide, which cleanses away harmful bacteria. While using this approach to treat Bacterial Vaginosis, taking 1000 mg of vitamin C during the douching period and 500 mg of vitamin C for an additional seven days after stopping douching is advisable. Supplementing with 500 mg of vitamin C is a healthy part of a daily regimen. Your doctor may not be aware of this. Still, there are prescription Vaginal vitamin C Tablets that correct pH imbalances in the vagina and relieve all symptoms of Bacterial Vaginosis with no side effects. To provide your doctor with information about these tablets, please visit www.polichem.com. Often, these inserts are not covered by insurance and may be expensive, but they are available. Do not pop a standard vitamin C tablet into your vagina. Even if it is buffered, C, it will burn. The prescription Vaginal Vitamin C Tablets are coated and time-released.

 

  • Without sufficient sunlight, our bodies become deficient in vitamin D, which can lead to hormone imbalances and mood disorders, particularly Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD). It can be helpful to take a D3 supplement containing K-2. However, avoid K-2 if you have a blood-clotting disorder or are on blood-thinning medication. 

 

  • Take powerful antioxidants like vitamin E, Co Q-10, Quercetin (great for Histamine Intolerance), or Grape Seed Extract. They help to increase oxygen levels in cells. Fungi and bacteria thrive in cells that are deficient in oxygen and will cling to them. Antioxidant supplement combinations can be found at your health food or vitamin store.

 

  • Fish oil (or krill Oil) is a priority, as omega-3s help calm and repair cells throughout the body. Krill oil is full of antioxidants. If you prefer not to take supplements, consider increasing your fish intake. Don't take fish or krill oil supplements if you are allergic to seafood. Omega-7 specifically eases vaginal dryness. 

 

  • Add fiber to your diet using psyllium seed, flaxseed, or Fiber One cereal (it tastes good). Toxins in the gut attach to fiber and are carried out of the body during a bowel movement. Fiber is excellent for cleansing the colon. Be sure to drink 6-10 glasses of water each day. Fiber, without sufficient water, is a cause of constipation.

 

  • Flaxseed helps to fight off bacterial and viral infections. Flaxseed must be ground and stored in the refrigerator to be beneficial. Add a little to cereals, smoothies, and salads. Powered (finely ground) flaxseed can be used as a tea to alleviate digestive gas (sip 8 ounces of hot water containing 1/2 tsp and a bit of honey or a mint leaf). You may also purchase flaxseed oil and add it to smoothies and protein drinks. Take 1-2 tablespoons daily. So that you know, flaxseed is exceptionally high in the amino acid arginine, which can trigger herpes lesions. 

 

  • Zinc 15-30 mg per day helps with healing. You can safely go up to 50 mg daily to help prevent colds, flu, and herpes breakouts. 

 

  • Vitamin E – 200 IU – 400 IU per day, no more

 

  • Goldenseal is often recommended for its ability to fight infections of all types. It is used as a supplement and in douches. It is available in capsule form. However, do not take goldenseal for more than seven days or if you are allergic to ragweed. Also, do not take it if you are pregnant.

 

  • Garlic is effective against yeast infections and also helps fight other infections and parasites. Place a single, small, peeled (but not nicked) clove in a strip of sterile gauze lubricated with olive oil into the vagina, leaving a trail of gauze externally. Replace every 12 hours. 3-7 days should be sufficient to notice positive results. Otherwise, discontinue. Ask your doctor before using garlic supplements or increasing garlic in your diet if you are on blood pressure or cholesterol medicines.

 

  • Oregano oil contains Carvacrol, which destroys Candida. Look for this supplement at health food and vitamin stores. Take or apply as directed.

 

  • Pau D'Arco is an herb that contains antibiotic agents. It can be found in capsule and tea forms.

 

  • Echinacea can help fight off a bacterial infection and boost the immune system. However, it works best with other antibacterial and antiviral herbs and spices. Use as directed on the label, usually for no more than two weeks.

 

 

Prebiotics & Probiotics

 

Again, if you have been experiencing ongoing stress, trouble digesting your food, or are taking medications, it is essential to replenish the friendly bacteria in your gut by taking prebiotics and probiotics. Don't just eat extra yogurt. Conventional dairy products contain excess sugar, which yeast thrives on and is known to cause stomach upsets in some individuals. Typical yogurt rarely contains enough acidophilus to make a huge impact anyway. When you eat yogurt, make sure it is plain and organic. You can add natural sweeteners, such as stevia, raw honey, or a small amount of fruit. Please note that stevia can cause diarrhea in individuals sensitive to it.

 

Probiotics are recommended for both Vaginitis and Bacterial Vaginosis (BV) because probiotics, such as L. acidophilus and Bifidobacterium bifidum, help suppress the growth of specific fungi and improve digestion by increasing certain enzymes and producing acids that fight bacteria. They also manufacture vitamins K, B1, B2, B3, B12, and folic acid. Levels of these vitamins are often decreased in women suffering from BV.

 

There are several strains of probiotics. Most probiotic products carry one or two strains of necessary bacteria, such as L. acidophilus (protects the heart and improves digestion) and L. rhamnosus (sometimes known as lactobacillus GG, which prevents and helps to relieve Irritable Bowel Syndrome, Vaginitis, BV, and childhood eczema). To these, I would add L. reuteri, which helps maintain a healthy vaginal environment.

 

Other strains are:

 

  • Casei - Boosts immunity
  • Lactis - Keeps your colon healthy
  • Boulardii - Eases gut stress and diarrhea
  • Bifidum - Strengthens the gut's immune system

 

There are specific strains of probiotics that can exacerbate histamine intolerance. If you have problems with histamine (allergy symptoms or Mast Cell Activation Syndrome, please choose your probiotics carefully. I provide information on selecting the correct probiotics under Vitamins & Supplements. 

Vaginal Soothing Recipes

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