Vaginal Health, done like a pro

The three main types of infections are:

1) Bacterial Vaginosis (BV):
Cause: Imbalance in the normal bacteria of the vagina.
Symptoms: Fishy-smelling discharge, itching, and irritation.

2) Vaginal Yeast Infection (Thrush):
Cause: Overgrowth of the fungus Candida.
Symptoms: Itching, burning, swelling, and a thick, white discharge.

3)Urinary Tract Infection (UTI):
Cause: Bacterial infection in the urinary tract.
Symptoms: Painful or frequent urination, cloudy urine, and pelvic discomfort.

VJJ Health's probiotics are a clinically researched and patented blend of 4 Vagina-specific Lactobacillus species - L. crispatus, L. rhamnosus, L. gasseri and L. jensenii. They work by populating your vagina with these ideal species and strains of Lactobacillus which support your body’s vaginal microbiome. A healthy vaginal microbiome maintains a correct pH balance which defends against bad bacteria. For more information on our probiotics visit here.

• Strain Selection: Choose vaginal bacterial supplements with species like Lactobacillus crispatus and Lactobacillus gasseri known for supporting vaginal health.
• CFU Count: Opt for a supplement with 1 to 10 billion CFUs per day for vaginal health.
• Bacterial Diversity: For Vaginal Health, look for ones with specific vaginal strains of Lactobacillus species.
• Survivability: Ensure the supplements are designed to survive the digestive system and reach the Vagina.
• Science Backed: Choose brands backed by scientific research.
• Packaging: Packaging that protects the viability of the bacteria from heat and moisture. Blister packs where you need to pierce the film to retrieve the tablet are ideal as are moisture proof sachets. In general, glass jars are not ideal for packing live bacterial supplements.
• No Artificial Additives: Select products with minimal additives, preservatives, and artificial ingredients. For more information about VJJ Health's products please read the blog 'Picking the perfect Vaginal Supplement'.

Bacterial vaginosis is a common vaginal infection caused by an imbalance in the naturally occurring bacteria within the vagina. It often leads to symptoms like unusual discharge, odor, and itching.

BV or Bacterial Vaginosis is an infection of the vagina caused by a bacterium called Gardnerella vaginalis. The vagina is usually protected from BV infection by an acidic pH maintained by good bacteria called Lactobacillus. Sometime the balance of bacteria changes in the vagina, causing the pH to increase and allowing an infection by Gardnerella.

BV is caused by an imbalance in your vaginal microbiome where the bad bacteria which causes BV outgrows the good bacteria which usually protects your vagina. One of the best ways to treat BV is by not getting it at all. You can help your own vaginal wellness by following the steps here.

BV is usually treated by a course of antibiotics which generally clears your infection within a week. In many cases BV returns soon after treatment. This may be because the antibiotics have themselves killed the good bacteria which protect the vagina. You may wish to supplement your vaginal microbiome with Perfect V while you are taking antibiotics and for some time afterwards if you keep getting it back again.

Vaginal thrush is mainly caused by an overgrowth of a yeast called Candida albicans. This yeast is naturally present in the body, including the vagina. However, certain factors can lead to its overgrowth and cause an infection. These factors include an imbalance in the microbial environment, the use of antibiotics, a weakened immune system, hormonal changes (like those during pregnancy or the menstrual cycle), uncontrolled diabetes, and other lifestyle factors such as stress and tight clothing.

Mild thrush infections and their symptoms may go away on their own without treatment, although this could take 3-7 days and it might be really annoying. If you have been experiencing thrush symptoms for longer than a week then you should see your doctor. The treatment will be an anti-fungal pill or a pessary (a tablet you put up your vagina). Using a specific vaginal live bacterial supplement like Perfect V during and after treatment may help your overall vaginal comfort and restore balance.

A UTI, or Urinary Tract Infection (often called cystitis) is caused by bad bacteria getting into the urinary tract and growing, causing an infection. The main microbe responsible for a UTI is called E.coli and is the most common bacteria in your gut.

A UTI usually causes a burning sensation when going for a pee. It can cause an ache in the lower abdomen and if it reaches the kidneys can cause nausea, acute pain in the lower back, blood in your pee and a fever. If you have any of these symptoms, make sure you see a doctor.

An uncomplicated lower urinary tract UTI can often be treated with home remedies but if you have symptoms like abdominal pain, blood in your wee, a fever or nausea, go see a doctor as soon as you can. Find out more about UTI's HERE.