It is a widely held belief that yogurt in the vagina helps to build up the vaginal flora and support it naturally. But is this really true?
A yoghurt tampon is supposed to help moisturize a dry vagina and can even cure vaginal yeast infections . What is the real deal with yoghurt tampons?
Here you will learn what is behind the myth of yoghurt tampons and how the vaginal flora can be built up .
Summary
The vaginal flora refers to the bacteria that protect the vagina from fungi and infections .
The pH value of the vagina is between 3.8 and 4.5
It is better not to overdo hygiene and wash with soap - this could upset the balance of the vaginal flora .
Table of contents
Contents
1. Beneficial lactic acid bacteria
The vaginal flora refers to the bacteria that protect the vagina from fungi and infections. The vaginal flora contains various types of so-called Döderlein bacteria or lactobacilli. In addition to the bacteria, the pH value also plays a decisive role.
The pH value of the vagina is between 3.8 and 4.5 - the vaginal environment is therefore acidic at this low value. If the vaginal flora is disturbed, e.g. with aggressive shower gels, vaginal douches or intimate sprays, the vaginal flora can no longer maintain protection against germs. This leads to a decline in the important lactic acid bacteria , which then also results in an increase in the pH value.
In order not to disturb the natural vaginal flora, you should consider the following: Avoid excessive hygiene and washing with soap. This could upset the balance of the vaginal flora.
Instead, wash the vagina with lukewarm water . This is sufficient to clean the vagina and protect you from infections. Taking antibiotics, for example after a bladder infection, can also weaken the vaginal flora, as can stress and the hormones from the contraceptive pill .
2. Yogurt tampons for the vaginal flora
As mentioned above, the vaginal flora consists of lactic acid bacteria, so the idea of a yoghurt tampon is not so far-fetched. Yoghurt also contains lactic acid bacteria and, in addition to its actual purpose as a food, is also used by many as a face mask, for example. So why not a yoghurt tampon?
Unfortunately, not all lactic acid bacteria are the same.
The lacto bacteria in a yoghurt tampon and those in the vaginal flora are not the same. The lactic acid bacteria found in yoghurt are Lactobacillus delbrueckii, Lactobacillus acidophilius and Streptococcus thermophilius and someone still says that celebrities' children's names are difficult to pronounce.
These yogurt bacteria are absolutely not suitable for the sensitive vaginal flora. No, no, no, no .
A yogurt tampon does not contribute to building up the vaginal flora, in fact it could actually lead to problems. The rod bacteria contained in yogurt are more likely to promote a fungal infection than to build up the vaginal flora. The same is true of yeasts that could be contained in the yogurt tampon.
So let’s be clear: inserting food, in this case yogurt tampons, into the vagina is a stupid idea.
In general and always better: Instead of smearing yogurt on your tampon, look for organic cotton.
3. Foods for a healthy vaginal flora
Yogurt (but not as you think)
Yoghurt can actually help. Not as a yoghurt tampon, but as food. Yoghurt and other probiotic foods such as onions, garlic and leeks can stabilize the pH value of the vagina.
avocado
The vitamin E contained in avocados can help relieve vaginal dryness and can even help with period pain. The unsaturated fatty acids it contains also help with cell renewal in the vagina.
soy
Tofu or soy milk every now and then can not only regulate estrogen levels in women going through menopause. The estrogen they contain can also help young women to prevent vaginal dryness.
Water
From a young age, we are constantly told to drink a lot. Some people find this easier than others. Now there is another reason to drink enough fluids, because water helps keep the vagina moist and protects it from dryness.
Did you know : Discharge is also responsible for the light stains in your underwear. Find out what this is all about here .
What is the vaginal flora?
The vaginal flora, also called vaginal microbiota, refers to the community of microorganisms that are naturally present in the vagina. It is a complex and dynamic mixture of different bacterial species that live together in a healthy balance.
Why is a healthy vaginal flora important?
The vaginal flora performs important functions to maintain vaginal health. It forms a protective barrier against potentially harmful microorganisms that could cause infections. By producing lactic acid and other substances, the vaginal flora maintains an acidic pH that inhibits the growth of harmful bacteria and creates a healthy environment.
How do I ensure a healthy vaginal flora?
Good vaginal health can be promoted by practicing proper intimate hygiene, avoiding excessive cleaning products, using condoms and avoiding irritants.
