Vaginal Microbiome and Menopause

Why the vaginal microbiome matters during peri- and menopause

The vaginal microbiome is a delicate ecosystem made up primarily of lactobacilli. These beneficial bacteria help maintain an acidic environment that supports comfort, moisture and everyday intimate wellbeing.

During perimenopause and menopause, shifting hormones — especially declining oestrogen — can influence this ecosystem in meaningful ways. As oestrogen drops, the vaginal environment naturally becomes less acidic, moisture levels decrease and the overall composition of the microbiome may shift.

These changes are completely natural, yet for many women they can influence how comfortable the vaginal area feels day to day.

How menopause changes the vaginal microbiome

1. Lower oestrogen means fewer lactobacilli

Oestrogen helps lactobacilli thrive. As levels fall, the microbiome may lose some of its protective lactobacillus-dominant profile.

This can lead to:

  • a rise in vaginal pH

  • a less acidic environment

  • a shift in the overall balance of bacteria

These shifts don’t necessarily cause symptoms, but they can make the intimate area feel different than before.

2. Reduced hydration and thinning of delicate tissue

Lower oestrogen also leads to:

  • decreased natural lubrication

  • thinner, more delicate vulval and vaginal tissue

  • increased sensitivity

Hydration becomes a key part of intimate wellbeing during this time of life.

3. Changes in comfort and daily intimate sensations

As the microbiome and pH adjust, some women notice:

  • dryness

  • sensitivity

  • reduced natural lubrication

  • changes in how comfortable the vulva feels

None of these changes indicate illness — they are normal biological shifts driven by hormonal transition.

Why caring for the microbiome matters during menopause

Supporting the vaginal microbiome during peri- and menopause helps create an environment that:

  • supports beneficial bacteria

  • encourages a pH closer to what lactobacilli prefer

  • promotes softness and comfort

  • reduces friction and dryness associated with hormonal changes

  • supports the delicate skin of the vulva and vaginal opening

This isn’t about correcting or treating anything — it’s about nurturing the natural changes your body is moving through.

Consequences of an unsupported microbiome during menopause

When the microbiome is disrupted or unsupported during peri- and menopause, women may experience:

  • increased dryness

  • greater sensitivity

  • discomfort during daily activities

  • intimate skin feeling more fragile

  • reduced resilience of vulval tissue

  • a general sense of imbalance or “not feeling like before”

These changes are not harmful, but they can affect confidence and overall comfort.

How to support your vaginal microbiome during menopause


1. Choose pH-considerate cleansers

Gentle washes that avoid harsh surfactants help prevent unnecessary disruption to the intimate environment.

2. Incorporate prebiotic or probiotic-supportive steps

Non-medicated products such as botanical suppositories or probiotic-focussed formulations can help create conditions that benefit lactobacilli.

3. Hydrate the delicate vulval skin

Using hydrating gels or soothing oils helps comfort and protect sensitive tissue that becomes drier with age.

4. Wear breathable, natural fibres

Bamboo underwear helps reduce moisture build-up and irritation.

5. Maintain a gentle daily routine

Consistency matters more than intensity — a simple 3-step routine is often enough to support everyday comfort.

A supportive daily routine during menopause

Step 1: Gentle Cleansing

Use a pH-considerate wash to prepare the intimate area without disrupting natural balance.

Step 2: Microbiome Support

Introduce non-medicated support such as probiotics or botanical suppositories that complement the intimate environment.

Step 3: Nourishing

Hydrate and soothe the delicate vulval skin with a soft, comforting oil.