Publications

The vaginal microbiome is a dynamic and diverse microbial community that plays a fundamental role in women’s reproductive health. Dominated primarily by Lactobacillus species, it maintains vaginal homeostasis through acidification, antimicrobial compound production, and pathogen inhibition. Disruptions in this balance, influenced by hormonal fluctuations, sexual activity, hygiene practices, antibiotic use, and lifestyle factors, can lead to dysbiosis, bacterial vaginosis, and increased susceptibility to sexually transmitted infections. The composition of the vaginal microbiome varies across different stages of life, pregnancy, and ethnic groups, with distinct community state types (CSTs) conferring varying degrees of protection or risk. Growing evidence underscores its impact on fertility, pregnancy outcomes, neonatal health, and postpartum complications. Advances in sequencing technologies have deepened understanding of its composition and function, highlighting opportunities for microbiome-based diagnostics and therapeutic interventions to improve reproductive and maternal health.