BV (bacterial vaginosis) and thrush are up there as the most common, along with vaginal dryness, recurring pH imbalance, irritation, and odour. A lot of women also deal with the aftermath of antibiotics wiping out their good bacteria, which opens the door to all of the above. The good news is that most of these are very manageable with the right approach.

A healthy vaginal pH sits between 3.8 and 4.5 — slightly acidic, which is what keeps harmful bacteria in check. When that balance tips — due to sex, hormones, antibiotics, or even stress — it creates an environment where infections can take hold. pH-balancing products like calendula suppositories bring things back into that healthy range, often quite quickly.

Probiotics — specifically Lactobacillus strains — are the dominant bacteria in a healthy vaginal microbiome. They produce lactic acid, which keeps the pH acidic and creates a hostile environment for pathogens. When you take probiotics (orally or vaginally), you're essentially reinforcing that bacterial army that keeps everything in balance.

Antibiotics don't discriminate — they wipe out bad bacteria and good bacteria alike. After finishing a course, your microbiome is essentially starting from scratch. This is exactly when probiotics matter most. Start them as soon as you can (even during antibiotics if your doctor says it's okay) and continue for at least two to four weeks afterwards. A calendula suppository on hand is also a smart move if things start to feel off.