Many women experience changes in their vaginal health but aren’t sure what’s normal and what isn’t. If you’ve ever searched for answers about unusual discharge, odor, or frequent infections, you’re not alone.

The truth is: your vagina has its own natural ecosystem of bacteria and yeast — known as the vaginal microbiome. When this delicate balance is disrupted, it can lead to problems like bacterial vaginosis (BV), yeast infections, and urinary tract infections (UTIs).

Here are 7 common signs your vaginal health may be out of balance, and what you can do about it:

1. Itching, Burning, or Irritation

Persistent discomfort around your vulva or inside the vagina is one of the clearest signs of an infection. This may be caused by an overgrowth of yeast, inflammation, or even an imbalance in vaginal pH.

2. Unusual Vaginal Discharge

Vaginal discharge is normal — it helps keep the area clean. But the color, consistency, and smell can tell you if something’s wrong. For example:

• Thick, white, and clumpy discharge is often linked to yeast infections

• Thin, grayish discharge with a strong odor may signal BV

• Yellow or green discharge could point to a sexually transmitted infection

3. Strong or Fishy Odor

A healthy vagina has a mild scent, but a strong, sour, or fishy smell — especially after menstruation or sex — may indicate BV. This condition is caused by an overgrowth of harmful bacteria that disrupt the vaginal microbiome.

4. Pain During Sex

Discomfort during intercourse, medically known as dyspareunia, may result from vaginal dryness, inflammation, or infection. Often, it is a result of changes in your pH or a lack of protective lactobacilli bacteria.

5. Recurring Infections

If you find yourself treating BV, yeast infections, or UTIs often — only for them to come back — your vaginal microbiome may need long-term support, not just another round of antibiotics.

6. Frequent UTIs

UTIs can happen when harmful bacteria enter the urinary tract, often from the vaginal area. If you're getting them more than once or twice a year, it could be a sign that your intimate bacterial balance is off.

7. Feeling ‘Unclean’ Despite Good Hygiene

If you’re doing everything right — washing regularly (without harsh soaps), wearing cotton underwear, and practicing good hygiene — but still feel uncomfortable or "not fresh," the problem is likely internal.

The Science Behind a Healthy Vagina

A healthy vaginal environment is slightly acidic, with a pH between 3.5 and 4.5. This acidity supports beneficial bacteria (like Lactobacillus) and prevents harmful microbes from growing. Factors like menstruation, sex, antibiotics, and even stress can throw off this balance.

When the vaginal pH rises (becomes less acidic), harmful bacteria multiply quickly — leading to infections, odor, and irritation. That’s why pH restoration and microbial support are key to lasting vaginal health.

How to Restore Balance Naturally

At Femina, we believe the solution lies in supporting your body, not masking the symptoms. That’s why we created two targeted products designed to work with your body’s natural processes:

Femina Cookie Fresh (Boric Acid Suppositories)

Boric acid is a natural compound with antifungal and antibacterial properties. It’s been used for decades by gynecologists to:

• Restore vaginal pH

• Treat BV and yeast infections

• Eliminate odor at the source

It works best when used after your period, after sex, or at the first sign of discomfort. Each suppository gently rebalances your vaginal environment and helps you feel fresh and confident again.

Femina Cranberry Probiotic Capsules

This formula combines the urinary health power of cranberry with clinically researched probiotic strains that:

• Rebuild and maintain healthy vaginal flora

• Prevent UTIs by reducing bacterial adhesion in the urinary tract

• Support your gut-vagina connection, which is essential for immune defense

Stop the cycle of discomfort. Start restoring your confidence from the inside out.

Shop now at: www.velobiotics.co.za/collections/all