How’s it going down there?

Olivia Cassano, from Evvy, a company focused on women’s health services, emphasized the importance of the vaginal microbiome, which consists of bacteria and fungi living in the vagina, for maintaining good health.

“When the vaginal microbiome is ‘off,’ that can result in vaginal infections such as BV, yeast infections, and aerobic vaginitis,” she warned.

“It can also result in a higher risk of other health conditions, such as recurrent UTIs. Research has even linked certain shifts in the vaginal microbiome to pregnancy complications like preterm birth.”

Cassano suggests that women who routinely suffer from the aforementioned vaginal infections and afflictions consider investing in a vaginal microbiome test.

“A vaginal microbiome test is designed to provide a comprehensive analysis of the bacteria and fungi living in the vaginal environment,” she said. 

“These tests can help identify imbalances linked to common conditions like bacterial vaginosis (BV), yeast infections, aerobic vaginitis, and recurrent urinary tract infections (UTIs).”

Research shows some people are at a higher risk of recurring BV due to a natural lack of lactobacilli bacteria, which is essential for maintaining a healthy vaginal microbiome.

For these individuals, probiotics are often recommended to help restore the vagina’s natural balance. This promotes the growth of good bacteria while preventing harmful bacteria from taking over.

Studies have shown that after treating initial BV, probiotics can reduce the chances of recurrence by almost half. This effect may last for a month or more.

Last year, women’s health startup Daye began selling a vaginal microbiome test in the form of a tampon that users wear and then mail back for screening.

In contrast, Evvy’s microbiome test uses metagenomic sequencing to analyze over 700 microbes in one swab.

“By understanding the specific microbes present, a vaginal microbiome test can guide targeted treatments, helping you address the root causes of symptoms rather than relying on generalized solutions,” said Cassano

Cassano noted that a microbiome test offers deeper insights into the relationship between vaginal health and broader concerns such as fertility, STIs, and pregnancy outcomes.

“A vaginal microbiome test is for anyone looking to understand their unique vaginal health, resolve persistent symptoms, or take charge of their reproductive and overall well-being.”

In terms of vaginal health, Cassano says there are a few symptoms that should never be ignored.

“I would recommend seeking evaluation for any significant change in vaginal discharge – an increase in discharge, a change in color (to green, for example), or an unpleasant odor can all indicate a problem like a vaginal infection or an STI.”

She noted that vaginal itching, burning, or pain could be signs of an infection that requires medical treatment.

Bleeding or spotting in between periods is another red flag (pun intended) and a reason to talk to your healthcare provider.

“Many times, there’s a benign reason for the bleeding — like a cervical polyp or breakthrough bleeding on birth control pills — but it can also indicate a more serious problem.”