The Microbiome and HPV

Human Papillomavirus (HPV) is one of the most common sexually transmitted infections, with many types causing varying effects, from benign warts to cervical cancer.

A growing body of research indicates that the health of our microbiomes—both gut and vaginal—plays a significant role in HPV persistence and clearance. In this article we will explore this connection and provide practical tips to optimise both microbiomes for better health outcomes.

Our BioBalance Multi and BioBalance Maxi probiotic range contain four strains of Lactobacillus species and have been specially developed with the gut and vaginal microbiomes in mind.

What Are Microbiomes?

Microbiomes refer to the diverse communities of microorganisms, including bacteria, fungi, and viruses, that live in various parts of our bodies. The gut microbiome is located in the digestive tract, while the vaginal microbiome is found in the female reproductive system. Both microbiomes can influence immune function and overall health.

The Gut Microbiome and HPV

1. Immune Function: The gut microbiome plays a crucial role in regulating the immune system. A balanced gut microbiome helps in the production of short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) and other metabolites that boost immune responses. A healthy immune system is essential for detecting and clearing HPV infections and reducing persistence.

2. Inflammation: Dysbiosis, an imbalance in gut bacteria, can lead to chronic inflammation, which may contribute to HPV persistence. Studies have shown that a healthy gut microbiome can reduce inflammation and promote a better immune response against HPV.

3. Microbial Metabolites: Beneficial gut bacteria produce chemicals that can influence the vaginal environment. These metabolites can help maintain a healthy vaginal microbiome, which is crucial for preventing HPV persistence.

The Vaginal Microbiome and HPV

1. Lactobacillus Dominance: A healthy vaginal microbiome is characterised by a dominance of Lactobacillus species, which help maintain a low pH and produce hydrogen peroxide, creating an environment that is less hospitable to pathogens, including HPV.

2. Immune Surveillance: The vaginal microbiome interacts with the immune system, helping to recognise and eliminate viral infections. A diverse and balanced vaginal microbiome can enhance the body’s ability to clear HPV.

3. Interplay Between Gut and Vaginal Microbiomes: Recent research indicates that there is a connection between the gut and vaginal microbiomes. The gut can influence the vaginal microbiome through the immune system and the chemicals produced by gut bacteria.

Optimising Your Microbiomes for HPV Clearance

Here are practical steps to optimise both your gut and vaginal microbiomes to potentially increase your chances of clearing HPV:

1. Maintain a Healthy Diet

- Prebiotic Foods: Foods like garlic, onions, bananas, and asparagus contain prebiotic fibre that feed good bacteria in your gut. Many foods containing Quercetin, such as onions and garlic, are also prebiotic!

- Probiotic Foods: Foods like yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut, and kimchi contain live beneficial bacteria that can support both gut and vaginal health.

- Fibre-Rich Foods: Include plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Fibre feeds beneficial gut bacteria, promoting a healthy gut microbiome and are therefore called prebiotic foods.

2. Consider Probiotic Supplements

Some studies suggest that specific probiotic strains may help support vaginal health. Always consult with a healthcare provider before starting any supplements.

Our Immuni-P Biobalance Multi and Biobalance Maxi probiotics contain 8 strains of beneficial bacteria including four strains of Lactobacillus species . Our probiotics have been thoughtfully designed to survive stomach acid and bile in order to reach the gut and add to the balance of your gut and vaginal microbiomes.

3. Avoid Unnecessary Antibiotics

Antibiotics can disrupt the balance of your microbiome, so they should only be taken when necessary and prescribed by a healthcare provider.

Disruption of Microbial Balance

Antibiotics are designed to kill or inhibit bacteria, but they often do not discriminate between harmful and beneficial bacteria. This can lead to a significant disruption in the balance of the gut microbiome, resulting in dysbiosis. Beneficial bacteria that play essential roles in digestion, metabolism, and immune function may be reduced.

1. Reduction in Diversity: A healthy gut microbiome is characterized by a diverse array of microbial species. Antibiotic use can lead to a decrease in this diversity, which is associated with various health issues, including gastrointestinal disorders, obesity, and metabolic syndrome.

2. Overgrowth of Pathogens: With the reduction of beneficial bacteria, pathogenic bacteria and yeast, such as Clostridium difficile or Candida, can proliferate. This overgrowth can lead to infections, gastrointestinal disturbances, and conditions like antibiotic-associated diarrhea.

3. Altered Metabolism: Antibiotics can change the metabolic processes of gut bacteria, affecting the production of short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) and other beneficial metabolites. SCFAs are crucial for gut health, providing energy to colon cells and regulating inflammation.

4. Impact on Gut Barrier Function: Dysbiosis resulting from antibiotic use can compromise the integrity of the gut barrier, leading to increased gut permeability (leaky gut). This condition allows toxins and pathogens to enter the bloodstream, potentially triggering systemic inflammation and immune responses.

Disruption of Vaginal Flora

Similar to their effects on the gut, antibiotics can disrupt the balance of the vaginal microbiome. This can lead to a decrease in Lactobacillus species, which are crucial for maintaining a healthy vaginal environment and preventing infections.

1. Increased Risk of Infections: The reduction of beneficial bacteria in the vagina can create a more favorable environment for pathogenic organisms, increasing the risk of infections such as bacterial vaginosis (BV) and yeast infections.

2. Altered pH Levels: Lactobacillus species help maintain a slightly acidic pH in the vagina, which is essential for protecting against pathogens. Antibiotics can disrupt this balance, leading to a higher pH and an increased risk of infections.

3. Impact on Immune Function: A healthy vaginal microbiome supports local immune responses. Antibiotic-induced dysbiosis can impair these immune responses, making the body more susceptible to infections and inflammation.

4. Stay Hydrated

Drinking enough water is essential for the health of both the gut and vaginal microbiomes. Proper hydration supports digestion, maintains the gut lining, promotes diversity of the gut microbiome, and helps regulate pH balance in the vagina. By prioritising hydration through adequate water intake and hydrating foods, you can cultivate a balanced microbiome, contribute to overall health, and enhance the function of your immune system.

5. Limit Sugar and Processed Foods

High sugar and processed foods can promote dysbiosis, leading to an imbalance in the gut microbiome.

Effects of Sugar on the Microbiome

1. Promoting Dysbiosis: High sugar intake can lead to an imbalance in the gut microbiome, a condition known as dysbiosis. This imbalance occurs when harmful bacteria proliferate at the expense of beneficial ones, potentially leading to gastrointestinal issues and inflammation.

2. Feeding Pathogenic Bacteria: Many pathogenic bacteria thrive on sugar. When sugar is consumed in excess, it can encourage the growth of these harmful microorganisms, which can disrupt the gut environment and negatively impact immune function.

3. Increased Gut Permeability: Diets high in sugar can lead to increased gut permeability (often referred to as "leaky gut"). This condition allows toxins and bacteria to enter the bloodstream, potentially triggering systemic inflammation and immune responses.

4. Impact on Metabolism: Excessive sugar intake can alter the metabolic processes of gut bacteria, leading to the production of unhealthy metabolites. This can contribute to metabolic disorders, obesity, and other health issues.

5. Influencing Mood and Mental Health: There is emerging evidence suggesting that sugar can affect the gut-brain axis, potentially influencing mood and mental health. An unhealthy microbiome may contribute to conditions like anxiety and depression.

Effects of Processed Foods on the Microbiome

1. Low Nutritional Value: Processed foods often lack essential nutrients, fiber, and healthy fats, which are vital for maintaining a healthy microbiome. A diet low in these nutrients can hinder the growth of beneficial microbes.

2. Added Sugars and Preservatives: Many processed foods contain high levels of added sugars, artificial sweeteners, and preservatives, which can negatively affect the gut microbiome. These substances can disrupt microbial balance and promote the growth of undesirable bacteria.

3. Inflammation: Processed foods are often high in unhealthy fats and refined carbohydrates, which can promote inflammation in the gut. Chronic inflammation can lead to dysbiosis and increase the risk of various health issues.

4. Reduced Fibre Intake: Many processed foods are low in dietary fibre, which is essential for feeding beneficial gut bacteria. A fibre-rich diet supports the growth of healthy microbes and the production of beneficial short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs).

   Altered Gut Motility: Diets high in processed foods can negatively affect gut motility, leading to issues like constipation or diarrhea, further impacting the microbiome.

6. Practice Safe Sex

Using condoms can help reduce the risk of contracting other sexually transmitted infections, which can affect the health of the vaginal microbiome.

7. Regular Exercise

Increased Microbial Diversity

Regular physical activity has been associated with greater microbial diversity in the gut. A diverse microbiome is generally considered healthier, as it contributes to better metabolic health and immune function.

1. Promotion of Beneficial Bacteria: Exercise can promote the growth of beneficial bacteria, such as Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium. These bacteria are important for digestion, nutrient absorption, and the production of beneficial metabolites like short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs).

2. Improved Gut Motility: Physical activity enhances gut motility, which can help prevent constipation and promote regular bowel movements. This improved movement aids in the elimination of waste and supports a healthy microbiome.

3. Reduction of Inflammation: Regular exercise can help reduce systemic inflammation. A lower inflammatory state is beneficial for maintaining a healthy gut environment and preventing dysbiosis, which is the imbalance of gut bacteria.

4. Enhanced Immune Function: Exercise has been shown to boost the immune system, which can help the body combat infections and maintain the integrity of the gut barrier. A strong immune response is crucial for managing the microbial environment in the gut.

5. Stress Reduction: Physical activity can reduce stress levels, which have been linked to negative changes in the gut microbiome. Lower stress can contribute to a healthier gut environment.

How Exercise Affects the Vaginal Microbiome

1. Hormonal Regulation: Exercise can help regulate hormones, including those that influence vaginal health. A balanced hormonal environment supports the growth of protective Lactobacillus species in the vagina.

2. Improved Blood Flow: Physical activity increases blood circulation, which can enhance the delivery of nutrients and immune cells to the vaginal area. This improved blood flow can support overall vaginal health and function.

3. Reduction in Infections: Regular exercise can help maintain a healthy weight and reduce the risk of conditions that may predispose individuals to infections, including bacterial vaginosis and yeast infections. A balanced vaginal microbiome is crucial for preventing these infections.

4. Stress and Mood Management: Like the gut, the vaginal microbiome can be affected by stress and mood. Exercise is a natural way to manage stress, which can help maintain a healthy vaginal environment.

Conclusion

The relationship between the gut and vaginal microbiomes is an emerging area of research that holds promise for understanding HPV persistence and clearance. By focusing on a balanced diet, maintaining hydration, exercising, and avoiding unnecessary antibiotics, you can take proactive steps to optimise their microbiomes and potentially enhance their immune response against HPV.

Our Biobalance probiotic range has been formulated with 8 different strains of beneficial bacteria, including 4 Lactobacillus strains to help you to maintain a healthy and diverse gut and vaginal microbiome. Being bile and stomach acid resistant ensures increased delivery to the gut beyond the harsh conditions of the stomach. Biobalance Multi contains 4 million colony forming units (CFU) per capsule and Biobalance Maxi contains 20 CFU per capsule.

This information and much more is available to jumpstart your ACTION PLAN in the Navigating High-Risk HPV E-Book now available in our shop.

References:

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2. Brusselaers N, et al. Vaginal dysbiosis and the risk of human papillomavirus and cervical cancer: Systematic review and meta-analysis. Am J Obstet Gynecol. 2019;221(1):9-18.e8.

3. Cheng L, et al. Vaginal microbiota and human papillomavirus infection among young Swedish women. NPJ Biofilms Microbiomes. 2020;6(1):39.

4. Hemarajata P, Versalovic J. Effects of probiotics on gut microbiota: Mechanisms of intestinal immunomodulation and neuromodulation. Therap Adv Gastroenterol. 2013;6(1):39-51.

5. Marco ML, et al. Health benefits of fermented foods: Microbiota and beyond. Curr Opin Biotechnol. 2017;44:94-102.

6. Mitra A, et al. The vaginal microbiota, human papillomavirus infection and cervical intraepithelial neoplasia: What do we know and where are we going next? Microbiome. 2016;4(1):58.

7. Smith RP, et al. Gut microbiome diversity is associated with sleep physiology in humans. PLoS One. 2019;14(10):e0222394.

8. Wang H, et al. Associations of cervicovaginal lactobacilli with high-risk human papillomavirus infection, cervical intraepithelial neoplasia, and cancer: A systematic review and meta-analysis. J Infect Dis. 2019;220(8):1243-1254.