Microbiome Balance

The microbiome in brief

Your body hosts trillions of microbes in the gut, on the skin, and in the vaginal and urinary tracts. In many healthy women, the vaginal microbiome is dominated by Lactobacillus species, which help keep the environment mildly acidic. Researchers have also found that the urinary tract has its own microbial community. Our urinary microbiome primer explains more.

The five strains in FemiCore

• L. crispatus: frequently the dominant species in a healthy vaginal microbiome.
• L. acidophilus: one of the best-known probiotic species.
• L. plantarum: a hardy species also found in fermented vegetables.
• L. gasseri: naturally present in the gut and vaginal flora.
• L. casei: common in fermented dairy and probiotic products.

The seller does not publish CFU counts or strain designations on its website. Check your bottle's label for those details.

Everyday ways to support balance

• Eat a fiber-rich diet with fermented foods such as yogurt or kefir if they suit you.
• Avoid douching and heavily scented intimate products.
• Use antibiotics only when prescribed, and finish the course as directed.
• Change out of damp swimwear or workout clothes promptly.