{
  "id": 4524736,
  "title": "Why you should pay attention to your vaginal microbiome – and how to keep it healthy",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/08/30/why-you-should-pay-attention-to-your-vaginal-microbiome-and-how-to",
  "topic": "health",
  "section": "Health & Medicine",
  "published": "2026-08-30T23:31:25.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "Channel News Asia",
    "slug": "channel-news-asia",
    "url": "https://www.channelnewsasia.com/women/healthy-vaginal-microbiome-reproductive-health-6339871"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "Your vaginal microbiome plays a crucial role in your overall health, impacting various aspects such as infections, reproductive health, pregnancy outcomes, and even cancer risk. A balanced vaginal microbiome is dominated by lactobacillus species, which are beneficial bacteria. These bacteria help maintain a stable immune environment and protect against pathogenic bacteria. When the vaginal microbiome becomes imbalanced, it can lead to various issues, including bacterial vaginosis (BV), which is associated with an increased risk of preterm birth, miscarriage, and systemic inflammation. BV can also contribute to the acquisition and clearance of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) like genital herpes and human papillomavirus (HPV), which may lead to cervical cancer. Hormonal changes during pregnancy can affect the vaginal microbiome, potentially leading to complications during childbirth. To maintain a healthy vaginal microbiome, avoid douching, use mild soap and water for cleaning, and steer clear of feminine products that can disrupt the natural pH balance. Wearing breathable clothing, avoiding excessive douching, and considering vaginal estrogen treatments during menopause can also help maintain a healthy vaginal environment.",
  "summary": "Your vaginal microbiome may influence everything from infections and reproductive health to pregnancy outcomes and cancer risk – which is why keeping it balanced is important for your overall well-being.",
  "key_points": [
    "Vaginal microbiome crucial for overall health",
    "Lactobacillus species maintain stable immune environment",
    "Imbalance leads to BV, STIs, and cancer risk"
  ],
  "editors_take": "Maintaining a balanced vaginal microbiome is crucial for overall health, as an imbalance can increase the risk of infections, reproductive issues, and even cancer, making self-care and awareness essential.",
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}