What Does It Mean?
Vaginal Imbalance refers to dysbiosis affecting the vaginal microbiome, which can lead to infections, inflammation, and disruption of the natural pH balance. This imbalance often results from bacterial or fungal overgrowth, impacting vaginal and urinary health.
How Did We Get There?
Root Causes:
- Altered Microbiome – Disruption of beneficial lactobacilli allows overgrowth of harmful microbes.
- Hormonal Imbalance – Estrogen fluctuations affect vaginal flora and pH balance.
- Poor Immune Function – Weak immune defenses make the vaginal environment susceptible to infections.
- High Sugar Diet – Encourages the growth of pathogenic yeast and bacteria.
- Antibiotic & Medication Use – Broad-spectrum antibiotics can deplete protective vaginal flora.
Signs & Symptoms:
- Vaginal discomfort, itching, or burning
- Abnormal discharge (thick, white, or foul-smelling)
- Frequent urinary tract infections (UTIs)
- Vaginal dryness or irritation
- Pain during intercourse
- Inflammation and redness
Lab Test Findings
| Lab Test Name | Expected Change | Optimal Range |
| Bacteria | Presence | None seen/Few CFU/mL |
| Blood | Negative | Negative cells/uL |
| Blood Urea Nitrogen (BUN) | Increased | 10.00-16.00 mg/dL |
| Creatinine | Increased | 0.80-1.10 mg/dL |
| Epithelial Cells, Squamous | Increased | 0-10 /hpf |
| Leukocyte Esterase | Positive | Negative |
| Mucous | Present | None |
| Nitrite | Positive | Negative |
| pH | Increased | 7 |
| RBC’s | Present | None |
| Specific Gravity | Decreased or Normal | 1.005-1.030 |
| Trichomonas Vaginalis | Present | None |
| WBC’s | Increased | 0 |
| Yeast | Present | None |
How Do We Treat It?
Functional Medicine Approach:
Restoring vaginal balance involves microbiome support, pH regulation, and immune enhancement.
Supplement Protocol
| Supplement | Function | Dosage & Frequency |
| D-Mannose Powder | Prevents harmful bacterial adhesion to the urinary tract | 1 tsp of powder with food, twice daily |
| Vita Buffered C Powder | Provides antioxidant support and immune function boost | ¼ scoop of powder without food, twice daily |
| Vita-Biotic | High-dose probiotic to restore beneficial flora | 4 capsules without food, daily |
| Vita Defense | Support immune health with a blend of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants | 1 capsule without food, daily |
| Ortho Biotic Women’s | Support digestive health and maintain a balanced gut microbiome in women | 1 capsule without food, daily |
Additional Lifestyle Interventions:
- Hydration & Hygiene: Drink plenty of water and practice good vaginal hygiene.
- Dietary Adjustments: Reduce sugar and processed foods to prevent yeast overgrowth.
- Probiotic-Rich Foods: Increase intake of fermented foods (yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut) to support microbiome health.
- Avoid Irritants: Minimize use of douches, scented soaps, and synthetic underwear.
- Manage Stress: Stress reduction techniques to support immune function and hormonal balance.