What if the culprit behind your recurring BV isn’t just hygiene or sex, but your hormones?
Let’s face it: bacterial vaginosis (BV) is one of those topics no one really wants to talk about, but so many of us deal with. The itching, the odor, the discomfort—it’s not just annoying, it’s disruptive. And if you’re someone who feels like BV keeps coming back no matter how careful you are, you might be wondering: could hormones be playing a bigger role than we think?
Spoiler alert: they just might be.
In this blog, we’re diving deep into the lesser-discussed link between hormonal imbalance and bacterial vaginosis, sharing four practical hints to help you stay balanced, and talking about ways to support your body post-intimacy—including a product we created just for this.
Understanding the Connection: Hormones & BV
Hormones affect nearly every part of your body, including your vaginal microbiome. Estrogen, in particular, plays a huge role in maintaining healthy levels of Lactobacilli, the good bacteria that help keep your vaginal pH balanced.
When estrogen dips—such as during your period, postpartum, perimenopause, or while on certain contraceptives—your body can become more vulnerable to bacterial overgrowth.
Sally W (NY subscriber): A friend of mine once told me, "Every time I ovulate or start my period, I just know BV is coming back. It’s like clockwork." She tried switching products, changing soaps, and even wearing only cotton underwear. Nothing worked until she finally addressed her hormonal health and began using a post-intimacy solution to reset her vaginal environment—like Après.
Your Top Questions Answered:
Q1: Can birth control cause hormonal BV?
Yes, some birth control methods, especially those that suppress ovulation or contain progestin-only hormones, can disrupt estrogen levels and change your vaginal flora.
Q2: What are signs that my BV is hormone-related?
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You notice flare-ups before or after your period
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You’re postpartum, perimenopausal, or starting new birth control
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Symptoms return despite good hygiene and no new sexual partners
Q3: Can I treat hormonal BV naturally?
There are lifestyle shifts that can help (see below), but it’s often a combo of medical and supportive care. Balancing hormones and protecting your vaginal microbiome after sex can make a big difference.
Q4: Can products like Après help?
Yes. Après is designed to be used post-intimacy to help remove excess fluids, balance pH, and reduce the conditions where BV thrives. It's discreet, easy to use, and made with women in mind.
Top 4 Hints & Tricks to Beat Hormonal BV:
1. Track Your Cycle and Identify Patterns Start journaling or use an app to track when BV symptoms show up. Noticing a pattern? That’s a clue your hormones are involved.
2. Eat to Support Hormone Balance A diet rich in fiber, good fats (like omega-3s), and hormone-balancing foods like flaxseeds, broccoli, and fermented foods can help regulate estrogen levels.
3. Avoid Harsh Soaps & Douches This seems obvious, but even pH-balanced soaps can be too much. Your vagina cleans itself—it doesn’t need scented help.
4. Use Après After Intimacy Intercourse can alter vaginal pH and introduce new bacteria. Après helps gently remove fluids and maintain balance after sex, supporting your microbiome and reducing the chance of BV flaring up.
Key Takeaways:
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Hormonal changes play a big role in vaginal health.
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BV might be more about balance than bacteria.
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Estrogen supports good bacteria that keep BV away.
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Pay attention to your cycle to find patterns.
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Small changes in diet can help hormone health.
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Avoid over-cleaning and scented products.
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Après is your secret weapon post-intimacy.
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You’re not alone—many women silently battle hormonal BV.
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Taking care of your whole self matters.
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Confidence starts with feeling comfortable in your body.
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