BC Research on Vaginal Health Leads the Way

I’m a science geek at heart. I love shows about the amazing workings of the body, so imagine my glee when I heard about a new research project that will look at the vagina’s ecosystem. The cross-country research will be led by Dr. Deborah Money, an Ob/Gyn here in Vancouver. The study will explore the microbiology of our most intimate yet unknown space. It could lead to changes in how we prevent and treat sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and will certainly lead to awe.

As with the process of pregnancy, there’s still a lot to learn about the vagina itself, that portal of pleasure, pain and life. Did you know that the nerves of the vagina are concentrated in the bottom third? This can give some reassurance to male partners who worry about size. Or did you know that the vaginal walls become thinner after menopause? Pre-menopause, vaginal walls are thick enough to withstand the rigours of penetration (and childbirth for those who become parents vaginally). Post menopause, hormonal shifts make the walls thinner. This not only makes the vagina less stretchy, it also makes it more likely to tear during penetrative sex (think sweater vs. t-shirt).

The vagina has its own balance of bacteria and natural lubrication that keeps it healthy. Upsetting that balance, whether it’s through introducing new bacteria via sexual partners or trying to wash the evidence of that bacteria away through douching, can cause an imbalance in bacteria that doctors can’t always resolve. This can make you more vulnerable to infections.  Dr. Money hopes that studying the many microbes in the vagina will help shed light on how to help women maintain a healthy bacterial balance, which can influence fertility, the risk of STIs, and in managing inflammation, overall health. 

I’m excited that this study is starting and proud that it’s here at home. Dr. Money has long been an advocate for women’s health, and has been a leader in reproductive health services for women living with HIV. I tip my hat to her, and my inner science geek grins.

- Janet

This was posted on Friday, October 15th, 2010 at 9:00 am and is filed under aging, Body Health, HIV Prevention, menopause, News, perimenopause, Research, sexual health . Feel free to respond, or trackback. Read our comments policy.

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