The vaginal self-cleaning function refers to the thickening and proliferation of the vaginal epithelium under the influence of estrogen secreted by the ovaries, which increases its resistance to pathogen invasion. At the same time, the epithelial cells contain abundant glycogen, which is broken down into lactic acid by lactobacilli, maintaining the normal acidic environment of the vagina and inhibiting pathogens that are adapted to reproduce in a weakly alkaline environment. This is a natural defense function of women.
How does the vagina clean itself?
Experts explain that many different types of bacteria exist in the vagina, but they usually do not cause disease. This is because, under normal circumstances, estrogen secreted by the ovaries can promote the proliferation and thickening of vaginal epithelial cells, increasing their resistance to pathogens.
In addition, vaginal epithelial cells contain abundant glycogen. Under the action of a large number of vaginal lactobacilli residing in the vagina of normal women, this glycogen is broken down into lactic acid, maintaining a normal acidic environment in the vagina, with the pH value kept below 4.5. This inhibits pathogens that are suitable for growth in an alkaline environment. This is the self-cleaning function of the vagina.
Under the influence of sex hormones secreted by the ovaries, the endometrium undergoes periodic shedding, resulting in menstruation, which helps to eliminate pathogens that have invaded the uterine cavity. At the same time, the growth of new endometrium in the uterus also hinders the reproduction and establishment of pathogens.
On the other hand, the mucus secreted by the glands in the cervical mucosa forms a mucus plug that blocks the cervical canal, isolating it from the external environment and playing an important role in preventing ascending bacterial infections. Additionally, the internal os of the cervix is normally closed, which also helps prevent the invasion of pathogens.
How effective is the vagina's self-cleaning function?
Experts say that the vagina's self-cleaning function depends on the glycogen content in vaginal epithelial cells, which is regulated by the level of estrogen secreted by the ovaries. Higher estrogen levels result in higher glycogen content. If ovarian function is impaired, it can affect the glycogen content of vaginal epithelial cells.
Early childhood
When the ovaries do not secrete estrogen, the vaginal epithelium lacks glycogen, resulting in a low vaginal self-cleaning function, making it susceptible to infection during this period.
young adulthood
Women with vigorous ovarian function have abundant vaginal lactobacilli and vaginal epithelial cells with glycogen, resulting in a strong vaginal self-cleaning function.
Pregnancy and premenstrual period
Increased alkaline secretions in the cervical canal flow into the vagina, making vaginal secretions alkaline and weakening the vagina's self-cleaning function.
menopause
When ovarian function ceases, vaginal epithelial cells lack glycogen, vaginal lactobacilli decrease, and other bacteria increase. Vaginal secretions gradually change from acidic to alkaline, making them more susceptible to infection, which can lead to inflammatory leukorrhea.
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