As a woman ages, changes in hormone production can cause the vaginal walls to thin. Thinner walls mean fewer cells that secrete moisture. This can lead to vaginal dryness. Hormonal changes are the most common cause of vaginal dryness, but they aren’t the only cause.

Lactobacillus acidophilus is the most-researched strain of probiotic when it comes to establishing and maintaining a healthy vaginal balance. Two other important strains include lactobacillus rhamnosus and lactobacillus reuteri.

Bacterial vaginosis is a type of vaginal inflammation caused by the overgrowth of bacteria naturally found in the vagina, which upsets the natural balance. Women in their reproductive years are most likely to get bacterial vaginosis, but it can affect women of any age.

Vaginal thrush is a common infection caused by an overgrowth of Candida albicans yeast. This yeast lives naturally in the bowel and in small numbers in the vagina. Symptoms can include vaginal itching or burning, a white discharge and stinging or burning while urinating.