Lactic acid treatment
When does it make sense?
© nelzajamal / Shutterstock
A lactic acid cure helps to restore the balance of a disturbed vaginal flora. You can find out when and how it is used here.
A lactic acid treatment supports the damaged vaginal flora
There are a lot of bacteria in the vagina, the majority of which are lactic acid bacteria. These bacteria in the mucous membrane of the vagina are supposed to maintain the acidic environment (pH value 4 to 4.5) in the vagina – because the lactobacilli protect them from fungi, viruses, etc. However, various causes can disturb this vaginal flora. The reason for this can be, for example, a fungal infection or improper care (too much or too little). Itching, redness and dryness can be the result of a disturbed vaginal environment. A lactic acid cure can, among other things, rebuild damaged vaginal flora.
Application: When is a lactic acid treatment recommended?
A lactic acid regimen makes sense under various circumstances:
- Vaginal fungus: Vaginal thrush is a common fungal infection in women; for example, some have problems with vaginal thrush after antibiotic treatment. After the treatment of vaginal thrush, the vaginal environment is often disturbed and a lactic acid cure makes sense.
- Bacterial vaginosis: Bacteria that actually do not belong there have penetrated the vagina through bacterial vaginosis and have disturbed the balance of the flora, the lactic acid bacteria are displaced. Discharge with an unpleasant smell, dryness, and redness may appear.
- Preventive: If you have frequent problems with vaginal infections, a preventive treatment with lactic acid makes perfect sense. Your doctor can advise you on this.
The best time to start a lactic acid regimen is shortly after your period, because the environment at that time is particularly dry and so susceptible to infections. During pregnancy, you should only take a lactic acid cure with a doctor’s advice.
What are the options for a lactic acid regimen?
A lactic acid cure is available in pharmacies without a prescription as a gel (with applicator), tablets, capsules or suppositories for insertion. The goal is to regenerate and stabilize the vaginal flora. Get advice from the pharmacy about which products are best for you.
Are there home remedies as an alternative to the lactic acid treatment?
The tip is often to soak a tampon in natural yoghurt and then insert it into the vagina. But the lactic acid bacteria in yogurt and those in the vagina are not the same! So: Please keep your hands off it and go to the pharmacy!
Do you have problems with yeast infections? Here you can find information about vaginal thrush and what helps against it.