In Part 2 of my conversation with Dr. Nicole, we dive into a topic that impacts women of every age but is often surrounded by embarrassment and misinformation—vaginal health.

Did you know your vagina and bladder have their own microbiomes? Or that many products marketed for feminine care may actually be harming your vaginal health?

Dr. Nicole shares practical, evidence-based strategies to support vaginal comfort, prevent recurrent UTIs, and make informed choices about intimate products. We also discuss why she created the Alubri line after seeing firsthand how many women struggled to access affordable and effective vaginal care.

In This Episode, We Discuss:

✨ Why douching does more harm than good

• Douching destroys beneficial lactobacillus bacteria.

• It can worsen odor, irritation, and increase the risk of infections and STIs.

✨ The truth about vaginal dryness and menopause

• Vaginal estrogen remains the gold standard for managing dryness and preventing recurrent UTIs.

• Safe alternatives and complementary options are available, particularly for breast cancer survivors.

✨ Understanding the Alubri product line

• Moisturizing Gel: Supports hydration and promotes healthy lactobacillus levels.

• Vulva Balm: Helps protect and support the external vulvar microbiome, especially during sweaty or wet-clothing situations.

• Intimate Serum: A water-based lubricant designed to reduce dryness and discomfort during intimacy.

• Calming Cream: Provides relief for irritation caused by soaps, skin reactions, and certain inflammatory conditions.

UTI Prevention Strategies Every Woman Should Know

✔️ Consider vaginal estrogen during peri- and post-menopause when appropriate.

✔️ D-mannose may help reduce recurrent UTIs by assisting the body in flushing bacteria from the urinary tract.

✔️ Healthy habits matter:

• Empty your bladder before and after intercourse.

• Stay hydrated.

• Avoid holding your urine for long periods.

✔️ Supporting a healthy vaginal microbiome may also help support bladder health.

Shopping for Vaginal Products? Read the Label!

Dr. Nicole recommends avoiding products containing:
❌ Fragrance
❌ Parabens
❌ Glycerin

Your vagina should never smell like flowers, fruit, or food. Fragranced products can disrupt the delicate balance of the vaginal microbiome and alter pH.

Additional Vaginal Health Tips

• Never use soap inside the vagina—water is all that's needed internally.

• Wear breathable cotton underwear.

• Sleep without underwear whenever possible to increase airflow.

• Change out of wet swimsuits and sweaty workout clothes promptly.

• Boric acid suppositories may help restore vaginal acidity and reduce recurring bacterial vaginosis or yeast infections. (Important: Boric acid should never be taken orally.

Action Steps

✔️ Prioritize vaginal health as part of your regular self-care routine.
✔️ Stop douching and avoid fragranced feminine products.
✔️ Read ingredient labels carefully.
✔️ Support your microbiome with healthy habits and informed product choices.

Connect with Dr. Nicole

Dr. Nicole Kerner is a board-certified, menopause-certified OBGYN with more than 20 years of experience in women's health. She is passionate about helping women understand their bodies and make informed decisions about menopause, hormone therapy, and vaginal health.

Find Alubri products at Target, Walmart, Amazon, or at alubri.com.

Follow Dr. Nicole Instagram, Facebook & TikTok: @OhMyGyno

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