Dynamic changes in the women’s vaginal microbiota

Abstract

The review presents a modern view of the dynamic changes in the microbiota and vaginal condition at different periods of women’s life. Aspects of the vaginal endocrine and immune systems were considered. The participation of the vaginal microbiome in the formation of colonization resistance was described, as well as its influence on the women’s health in general. The regulatory mechanisms of the condition of the female reproductive system under the influence of various damaging factors of infectious and non-infectious nature were revealed. The key points of changes in the vaginal microbiota in different periods of women’s life depending on the phase of the menstrual cycle, hormonal background and during pregnancy were described. The effect of antibacterial therapy and probiotics on the vaginal microbiota was considered. Key words: bacterial vaginosis, vaginal dysbiosis, women's health, infectious process in the vagina, colonization resistance, vaginal microbiota, neonatal microbiota, vaginal pathogens