Vaginal Health: Ignored by Medicine | Opinion

If you've ever exited a doctor's appointment feeling like you walked away with more uncertainties than clarity regarding your reproductive health, know that you're not isolated in this experience. For many years, I moved between urgent care centers, emergency departments, and gynecologist appointments, seeking solutions for recurring urinary tract infections (UTIs). Each time, I received one antibiotic following another. Unfortunately, the infections kept coming back. Eventually, I developed resistance against three frequently prescribed medications. When I questioned the reason behind this, I only got unclear explanations. Reproductive well-being has historically taken a backseat within conventional healthcare practices.

This occurrence is quite typical. Issues related to the vagina and urination rank among the top health issues faced by individuals who have female anatomy. However, the usual approach still focuses on advice about cleanliness and additional antibiotics. Numerous patients are asked about their personal hygiene yet get minimal information regarding root reasons. The importance of the vaginal bacterial balance is frequently overlooked.

The microbiome relies on beneficial bacteria, particularly lactobacilli, which help create an acidic setting that stops infections. While antibiotics can be essential at times, they frequently eliminate these helpful microbes. This leads to situations where problems may return.

The digestive system also has a key function. Research indicates that people who experience recurring urinary tract infections frequently suffer from imbalances in their gut flora, which impairs the body’s capacity to control harmful bacteria like E. coli. The gastrointestinal tract serves as a source. Conventional antibiotic therapies fail to consider this link and may even exacerbate the issue. Altering the balance of microorganisms in both the gut and vagina can result in persistent UTIs, bacterial vaginosis, and fungal infections.

This process inspired me to conduct my own investigation. Drawing from my expertise in biomedical engineering and microbiology, I developed an experiment employing pH indicator dyes along with active probiotic cultures. I observed steady changes indicating a more favorable, acidic condition. These findings supported the information I had come across in scientific studies. I chose to develop the resources that were unavailable elsewhere.

That choice resulted in the establishment of With Meraki Co. A health-focused business rooted in scientific research, dedicated to women's vaginal and reproductive well-being. We recognize that frequent infections and imbalances frequently indicate broader problems such as an unbalanced gut microbiome, changes in hormones, excessive use of antibiotics, or weakened immunity. Our solutions aim to tackle these underlying factors directly.

Our team provides two probiotic products: Clear Mind and Balanced Life. Both utilize a common combination of beneficial bacteria and fiber designed to rebalance microorganisms in the digestive system and vaginal area. Clear Mind promotes bladder health. Balanced Life aids in maintaining hormone equilibrium, managing stress, and supporting emotional well-being. While each item addresses distinct requirements, they both originate from the same scientific base.

Meraki Co. goes beyond being simply a line of supplements. It addresses the overlooked aspect of vaginal health within medical practices and societal norms. Our commitment lies in conducting research, providing educational resources, and offering ongoing support. We avoid using fear-based strategies or superficial advertising.

Women's vaginal wellness should be considered part of overall healthcare. Individuals deserve reliable knowledge, practical solutions, and items supported by scientific research. I founded Meraki Co. because I noticed numerous people dealing with similar challenges that I experienced. When the current system isn't functioning properly, it's our duty to create an improved alternative.

Giana Jarrah is a biomedicine engineer and the creator of With Meraki Co.

The opinions stated in this piece belong to the author exclusively.

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