Dietary supplement to maintain the health of the genitourinary system in women

Bades to maintain the health of the genitourinary system in women: a detailed review

Anatomy and physiology of the female genitourinary system: the basis of understanding

For the effective use of biologically active additives (dietary supplements) in maintaining the health of the genitourinary system, a clear understanding of its anatomy and physiology is necessary. The female genitourinary system is a complex complex of organs that are closely interconnected and performing vital functions.

1. Urine system:

• Kidneys: The paired organ responsible for the filtering of blood, removal of waste and excess fluid, regulation of blood pressure and the production of hormones.
• Ureter: Tubular structures connecting the kidneys with the bladder transporting urine.
• Bladder: Full organ that serves as a urine collection tank.
• Urethra: The tube through which urine is removed from the bladder outward. In women, urethra is shorter than in men, which makes them more susceptible to urinary tract infections (IMP).

2. Reproductive system:

• Ovaries: The paired organ producing eggs and sex hormones (estrogen and progesterone).
• Fallopiyev pipes (fallopian pipes): Tubular structures connecting the ovaries with the uterus, providing the egg transport and the place of fertilization.
• Uterus: Full muscle organ where the fetus is developing during pregnancy.
• Cervix: The lower part of the uterus connecting it to the vagina.
• Vagina: The muscle tube connecting the cervix to the outer genitals.
• External genitalia (vulva): Include large and small labia, clitoris and vaginal

Relationship:

It is important to understand that the urinary and reproductive systems are anatomically close and functionally interconnected. Urinary tract infections can affect the reproductive system, and vice versa. Hormonal changes associated with the menstrual cycle, pregnancy and menopause can also influence both systems.

Vaginal microflora:

The vagina contains a complex ecosystem of microorganisms known as a vaginal microflora. The main component of healthy vaginal microflora is lactobacilli that produce lactic acid, supporting the acidic environment (PH 3.8-4.5). The acidic medium suppresses the growth of pathogenic microorganisms, protecting from infections. Violation of the balance of vaginal microflora (bacterial vaginosis, candidiasis) can lead to unpleasant symptoms and increase the risk of infections.

Physiological processes:

• Menstrual cycle: Regular hormonal changes that control the maturation of the egg, preparation of the uterus for pregnancy and menstruation.
• Ovulation: The exit of a mature egg from the ovary.
• Pregnancy: The development of the fetus in the uterus after the fertilization of the egg.
• Menopause: The cessation of menstruation associated with the age -related decrease in the production of sex hormones.

Understanding these foundations is necessary for a conscious approach to choosing and using dietary supplements to maintain the health of the genitourinary system.

Common problems of the genitourinary system in women: causes and symptoms

The female genitourinary system is subject to various diseases and conditions that can significantly reduce the quality of life. Understanding the causes and symptoms of these problems is the first step towards their prevention and effective treatment.

1. Urinary tract infections (IMP):

• Reasons: The most common cause of ISP is the bacterium They exhibited chill (E. coli), penetrating the urethra and causing inflammation. Other bacteria, such as Klebsiella pneumoniae, Staphylococcus saprophyticus And Proteus wonderfulcan also call imp. Risk factors include short urethra in women, sexual activity, use of spermicides, catheterization of the bladder, pregnancy and menopause.
• Symptoms: Frequent urination, burning during urination (dysuria), muddy or bloody urine, pain in the lower abdomen or in the lower back, a strong smell of urine. In the case of kidney damage (pyelonephritis), fever, chills, nausea and vomiting can be observed.

2. Bacterial vaginosis (BV):

• Reasons: The imbalance of vaginal microflora, characterized by a decrease in the amount of lactobacilli and an increase in the number of anaerobic bacteria, such as Gardnerella vaginalis, Mobiluncus And Atopobium vaginal. Risk factors include douching, smoking, the use of intrauterine spirals (Navy) and sexual activity with several partners.
• Symptoms: White or gray vaginal discharge with an unpleasant “fish” smell, especially after intercourse. Itching and burning in the vagina can be observed, but often BV proceeds asymptomatic.

3. Candidiasis (thrush):

• Reasons: Excessive growth of the fungus Candida albicans In the vagina. Candida It is usually present in small quantities in vaginal microflora, but under certain conditions (for example, taking antibiotics, pregnancy, diabetes, weakened immunity) can actively multiply and cause symptoms.
• Symptoms: Intensive itching and burning in the vagina, thick white curdled discharge, redness and swelling of the vulva, pain during urination and sexual intercourse.

4. Urinary incontinence:

• Reasons: Various factors can contribute to urinary incontinence, including weakening of the pelvic floor muscles (after childbirth, operations or with age), damage to the nerves that control the bladder, hyperactivity of the bladder, urinary tract infection and some drugs.
• Types:
  • Stress incontinence: Urine leak during coughing, sneezing, laughter or physical exertion.
  • Urgen incontinence: An unexpected and strong desire to urinate, followed by a urine leak immediately.
  • Mixed incontinence: A combination of stress and urgent incontinence.
  • Filling incontinence: A constant or frequent leak of a small amount of urine due to the inability of the bladder is completely empty.

5. Passing of the pelvic organs:

• Reasons: Weakening of the muscles and ligaments of the pelvic floor that support the uterus, the bladder and rectum. Risk factors include pregnancy, childbirth (especially multiple), obesity, chronic cough, constipation and age.
• Types:
  • Cystocele: The protrusion of the bladder in the vagina.
  • Rectocele: The protrusion of the rectum in the vagina.
  • Uterocele: Laying uterus in the vagina.
  • Enterocele: The protrusion of the small intestine in the vagina.
• Symptoms: A feeling of pressure or severity in the vagina, protrusion in the vagina, difficulty in urination or defecation, urinary or feces, pain during intercourse.

6. Cystitis (inflammation of the bladder):

• Reasons: Most often caused by a bacterial infection, but can be caused by other factors such as irritation from chemicals (soap, shower gels), radiation therapy or medicine.
• Symptoms: Frequent urination, burning during urination, pain in the lower abdomen, muddy or bloody urine, strong smell of urine.

7. Endometriosis:

• Reasons: The growth of fabric similar to the endometrium (the mucous membrane of the uterus), outside the uterus. The cause of endometriosis is not fully known, but it is assumed that genetic factors, impaired immune systems and retrograde menstruation (when the blood and endometrium tissues enter the abdominal cavity through the phallopian pipes) play a role.
• Symptoms: Severe pain during menstruation (dysmenorrhea), pain in intercourse (dysparaunia), pelvic pain, infertility, menstrual irregularities, pain during urination or defecation.

8. FIRE Uterus:

• Reasons: Benign tumors growing from the muscle tissue of the uterus. The causes of uterine fibroids are not fully known, but hormonal factors (estrogen and progesterone) play a role.
• Symptoms: Abundant and long menstruation, pelvic pain, frequent urination, constipation, back pain, increase in abdomen.

9. Syndrome of polycystic ovary (PCU):

• Reasons: Hormonal disorder characterized by an increased level of androgens (male sex hormones), irregular menstruation or lack of ovulation, and the presence of many cysts on the ovaries. The reason for PCO is not fully known, but genetic factors and insulin resistance play a role.
• Symptoms: Irregular menstruation or their absence, infertility, acne, hirsutism (excess hair growth on the face and body), baldness by male type, weight gain, insulin resistance.

10. Menopausal symptoms:

• Reasons: Reducing the production of sex hormones (estrogen and progesterone) ovary associated with age.
• Symptoms: The ebbs of heat, night sweating, dry vagina, decrease in libido, sleep disturbance, mood change, urinary incontinence.

It is important to remember that self -diagnosis and self -medication can be dangerous. If any symptoms appear, consult a doctor to make a diagnosis and prescribe adequate treatment.

The main components of dietary supplements for the health of the genitourinary system: action mechanisms and effectiveness

Biologically active additives (dietary supplements) can be a useful addition to the main treatment and prevention of diseases of the genitourinary system in women. However, it is important to understand which components have proven effectiveness and how they act.

1. Cranberry (Cranberry):

• Active components: Pro-careanidines (PACS), especially A-type.
• The mechanism of action: PACS prevent bacteria attachment E. coli to the walls of the urinary tract, reducing the risk of developing imp. They are associated with adhesins (FIMH) located on the surface of bacteria, thereby preventing their adhesion to the cells of the bladder epithelium.
• Efficiency: Numerous studies confirm the effectiveness of cranberries in the prevention of recurrent imp. Cranberries are especially useful for women with frequent cystitis. It is important to choose dietary supplements with a high content of PACS A-type (at least 36 mg in a daily dose).
• Output forms: Capsules, tablets, juice, powder.
• Side effects: Rarely – a disorder of the stomach, diarrhea. It is not recommended when taking warfarin (anticoagulant).

2. D-mannose:

• The mechanism of action: D -mannose is a simple sugar that also prevents the attachment of bacteria E. coli to the walls of the urinary tract. D-mannose associates with adhesines FIMH bacteria E. coli More effective than the cells of the epithelium of the bladder, thereby “luring” bacteria and allowing them to be excreted in the urine.
• Efficiency: D-mannose is effective in the prevention and treatment of acute and recurrent EPPs caused E. coli. It can be especially useful for women who cannot take antibiotics or prefer alternative treatment methods.
• Output forms: Powder, capsules, tablets.
• Side effects: Rarely – stomach disorder, bloating.

3. Probiotics (Lactobacillus spp., Bifidobacterium spp):

• The mechanism of action: Probiotics restore and support a healthy vaginal microflora, preventing the growth of pathogenic microorganisms, such as Gardnerella vaginalis And Candida albicans. They produce lactic acid, supporting the acidic environment in the vagina, and produce bacteriocins (antimicrobials), which inhibit the growth of pathogens. Some probiotics also have anti -inflammatory properties.
• Efficiency: Probiotics are effective in the prevention and treatment of bacterial vaginosis and candidiasis. Vaginal suppositories with probiotics are often more effective than oral forms to restore vaginal microflora. It is important to choose probiotics containing strains that have proved their effectiveness in the treatment of vaginal infections, such as Lactobacillus rhamnosus GR-1 And Lactobacillus reuteri RC-14.
• Output forms: Capsules, tablets, vaginal suppositories, tampons.
• Side effects: Rarely – bloating, gases.

4. Vitamin D:

• The mechanism of action: Vitamin D plays an important role in the regulation of the immune system and maintaining bone health. Vitamin D deficiency is associated with an increased risk of development of the IMP, bacterial vaginosis and other diseases of the genitourinary system. Vitamin D helps to strengthen the immune system and increase resistance to infections.
• Efficiency: Vitamin D additives can be useful for women with vitamin D deficiency, especially in the winter months. They can help reduce the risk of developing IMPs and other infections.
• Output forms: Capsules, tablets, liquid forms.
• Side effects: With an overdose – nausea, vomiting, weakness, impaired renal function.

5. Vitamin C (ascorbic acid):

• The mechanism of action: Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that strengthens the immune system and protects the cells from damage to free radicals. It also acidifies urine, which can prevent the growth of bacteria in the urinary tract.
• Efficiency: Vitamin C can be useful for the prevention of IMP, especially in combination with other components such as cranberries and D-mannose.
• Output forms: Capsules, tablets, powder, chewing tablets.
• Side effects: With high doses – disorder of the stomach, diarrhea.

6. Hyaluronic acid:

• The mechanism of action: Hyaluronic acid is an important component of connective tissue and plays a role in maintaining the health of the mucous membranes, including the mucous membrane of the bladder and vaginal. It has moisturizing and anti -inflammatory properties.
• Efficiency: Hyaluronic acid can be useful for the treatment of cystitis and hyperactive bladder syndrome. Intripyrous administration of hyaluronic acid can help restore the damaged mucous membrane of the bladder and reduce inflammation. Vaginal suppositories with hyaluronic acid can help moisturize the mucous membrane of the vagina and reduce dryness, especially during menopause.
• Output forms: Capsules, tablets, vaginal suppositories, solutions for intraise administration.
• Side effects: Rarely – allergic reactions.

7. Pumpkin seed extract:

• The mechanism of action: Pumpkin seed extract contains phytosterols, which have a beneficial effect on the health of the bladder and prostate gland (in men). In women, pumpkin seeds can help strengthen the muscles of the pelvic floor and reduce the symptoms of the hyperactive bladder and urinary incontinence.
• Efficiency: Pumpkin seed extract can be useful for women with urinary incontinence, especially in combination with other components such as soy extract.
• Output forms: Capsules, tablets.
• Side effects: Rarely – stomach disorder.

8. Soy extract (isoflavon):

• The mechanism of action: SOI isoflas are phytoestrogens that have a weak estrogen -like effect. During the period of menopause, when the level of estrogen decreases, soybean isoflavons can help reduce symptoms, such as the ejiumen of heat, the dry vagina and urinary incontinence.
• Efficiency: Soy extract can be useful for women during menopause to facilitate menopausal symptoms and improve the health of the genitourinary system.
• Output forms: Capsules, tablets.
• Side effects: Rarely – stomach disorder, bloating. It is not recommended for women with estrogen-dependent tumors.

9. Field horsetail (Equisetum arvest):

• The mechanism of action: Field horsetail contains silicon, which helps to strengthen the connective tissue and mucous membranes. It also has a diuretic and anti -inflammatory effect.
• Efficiency: Field horsetail can be useful for strengthening the mucous membrane of the bladder and reduce cystitis symptoms.
• Output forms: Capsules, tablets, grass for brewing tea.
• Side effects: Not recommended for kidney diseases.

10. Castlos Uva-Ursi):

• The mechanism of action: The bend contains arbutin, which has an antibacterial and diuretic effect. When consuming, arbutin turns into hydrochinon, which has antiseptic properties and helps to fight bacteria in the urinary tract.
• Efficiency: Toplood is traditionally used to treat imp. However, prolonged use of stomachs is not recommended due to the potential toxicity of hydrochinon.
• Output forms: Capsules, tablets, grass for brewing tea.
• Side effects: Nausea, vomiting, stomach disorder. It is not recommended for pregnant and lactating women, as well as people with kidney diseases.

It is important to remember:

• Before taking any dietary supplement, you need to consult a doctor, especially if you have any chronic diseases or take medications.
• Bad is not a replacement for full treatment prescribed by a doctor.
• The effectiveness of dietary supplements can vary depending on the individual characteristics of the body.
• Choose a dietary supplement from reliable manufacturers who have passed certification and quality control.
• Carefully read the composition and dosage of dietary supplements.

Dietary supplement for the prevention of IMP: cranberries, D-mannose and others

Prevention of urinary tract infections (IMP) is an important task, especially for women suffering from recurrent cystitis. Biologically active additives (BAD) can play an important role in reducing the risk of developing IMP.

1. Cranberry (Cranberry):

• The mechanism of action: As described earlier, proanthocyanidines (PACS) in cranberries prevent the attachment of bacteria E. coli to the walls of the urinary tract.
• Dosage: The recommended daily dose of PACS A-type is at least 36 mg. It is important to choose a dietary supplement with a standardized PACS content.
• Research: Numerous studies confirm the effectiveness of cranberries in the prevention of recurrent imp. The meta-analyzes showed that cranberries reduce the risk of developing the IMP by 26-35%.
• Advantages: A natural product, relatively safe, with a small number of side effects.
• Flaws: Effective only against E. coli. It can interact with warfarin.

2. D-mannose:

• The mechanism of action: D-mannose associates with bacteria E. colipreventing their attachment to the walls of the urinary tract.
• Dosage: The recommended daily dose is 1-3 grams, divided into several techniques.
• Research: Studies have shown that the D-mannose can be as effective as antibiotics in the prevention of recurrent IMPs caused E. coli.
• Advantages: Safe, well tolerated, does not affect the vaginal microflora.
• Flaws: Effective only against E. coli.

3. Cranberry and D-mannose in combination:

• Synergetic effect: The combination of cranberries and D-mannose can be more effective than using each component separately. Cranberries contain PACS, which prevent the attachment of bacteria, and the D-mannose is associated with bacteria, which are already in the bladder, facilitating their excretion in the urine.
• Dosage: Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for combined drugs.
• Research: Some studies have shown that combined cranberry and D-mannose therapy can significantly reduce the risk of recurrent imp.

4. Probiotics:

• The mechanism of action: Probiotics restore and support a healthy vaginal and intestinal microflora, competing with pathogenic bacteria for nutrients and attachments.
• Dosage: It is recommended to choose probiotics with a high content of Colations (colony -forming units) and containing strains that have proved their effectiveness in the prevention of IMPs, such as Lactobacillus rhamnosus GR-1 And Lactobacillus reuteri RC-14.
• Output forms: Capsules, vaginal suppositories.
• Advantages: Safe, well tolerated, support the health of the intestines and vagina.
• Flaws: Efficiency can vary depending on the strain and individual characteristics of the body.

5. Vitamin C:

• The mechanism of action: Vitamin C acidifies urine, creating an unfavorable environment for the growth of bacteria. It also strengthens the immune system.
• Dosage: The recommended daily dose is 500-1000 mg.
• Advantages: Antioxidant, strengthens immunity.
• Flaws: With high doses, the stomach disorder can cause.

6. Hygienic measures:

It is important to remember that dietary supplements are only an addition to the main measures of the prevention of IMPs, which include:

• Drink enough liquid (at least 1.5-2 liters per day).
• Urinate in the first urge.
• Urinate after sexual intercourse.
• Wipe the front back after defecation.
• Avoid douching.
• Wear cotton underwear.
• Avoid close clothes.

It is important to remember:

• Before taking any dietary supplement, you need to consult a doctor.
• Bad is not replacing antibiotics with acute imp.
• If the symptoms of IMP appear, consult a doctor to prescribe adequate treatment.

Diet to maintain the health of vaginal microflora: probiotics and others

The health of vaginal microflora plays a key role in maintaining the health of the female genitourinary system. The imbalance of vaginal microflora can lead to bacterial vaginosis (BV), candidiasis (thrush) and other unpleasant conditions. Biologically active additives (BAD) can help restore and maintain a healthy vaginal microflora.

1. Probiotics:

• The mechanism of action: Probiotics are living microorganisms, which, when used in sufficient quantities, have a beneficial effect on the health of the owner. They restore and maintain a healthy vaginal microflora, displacing pathogenic microorganisms, producing lactic acid and bacteriocins, and strengthening the immune system.
• Strains: The most effective probiotics strains to maintain the health of vaginal microflora are Lactobacillus rhamnosus GR-1, Lactobacillus reuteri RC-14, Lactobacillus acidophilus, Lactobacillus casei, Lactobacillus gasseri And Bifidobacterium bifidum.
• Output forms: Capsules, vaginal suppositories, tampons. Vaginal suppositories with probiotics are often more effective than oral forms, since they deliver probiotics directly to the vagina.
• Dosage: It is recommended to choose probiotics with a high content (colony -forming units) and containing strains that have proved their effectiveness in the treatment of vaginal infections. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
• Research: Numerous studies confirm the effectiveness of probiotics in the treatment and prevention of bacterial vaginosis and candidiasis.
• Advantages: Safe, well tolerated, support the intestinal health.
• Flaws: Efficiency can vary depending on the strain and individual characteristics of the body.

2. Prebiotics:

• The mechanism of action: Prebiotics are undigested dietary fiber that serve as food for beneficial bacteria in the intestines and vagina. They stimulate the growth and activity of probiotics.
• Types: The most common prebiotics include inulin, fruitoligosaccharides (phos) and galactooligosaccharides (state).
• Sources: Prebiotics are contained in products such as garlic, onions, asparagus, bananas, Jerusalem artichoke and chicory.
• Dosage: The recommended daily dose of prebiotics is 3-5 grams.
• Advantages: Support the intestinal health, stimulate the growth of probiotics.
• Flaws: They can cause bloating and gases in some people.

3. Lactic acid:

• The mechanism of action: Loemic acid helps to maintain an acidic environment in the vagina (PH 3.8-4.5), which is necessary for the growth of lactobacilli and the suppression of the growth of pathogenic microorganisms.
• Output forms: Vaginal suppositories, gels.
• Dosage: Follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
• Advantages: It helps to restore and maintain an acidic environment in the vagina.
• Flaws: It can cause irritation in some people.

4. Vitamin D:

• The mechanism of action: Vitamin D plays an important role in the regulation of the immune system and maintaining the health of the mucous membranes. Vitamin D deficiency is associated with an increased risk of the development of bacterial vaginosis.
• Dosage: The recommended daily dose is 600-800 IU.
• Advantages: Strengthens immunity, supports bone health.
• Flaws: With an overdose can cause nausea, vomiting, weakness.

5. Tea wood oil (Melaleuca alternifolia):

• The mechanism of action: Tea tree oil has antiseptic, antifungal and anti -inflammatory properties.
• Output forms: Vaginal suppositories, diluted solutions for douching.
• Dosage: Use with caution, strictly observing the manufacturer’s instructions. Do not use undiluted tea tree oil.
• Advantages: It has antiseptic and antifungal properties.
• Flaws: It can cause irritation and allergic reactions in some people. Not recommended for pregnant and lactating women.

6. Boric acid:

• The mechanism of action: Boric acid has antiseptic and antifungal properties.
• Output forms: Vaginal suppositories.
• Dosage: Use with caution, strictly observing the manufacturer’s instructions.
• Advantages: Effective against fungi Candidaresistant to other antifungal drugs.
• Flaws: It can cause irritation and burning in the vagina. Not recommended for pregnant and lactating women.

7. Hygienic measures:

It is important to remember that dietary supplements are only an addition to the main measures to maintain the health of vaginal microflora, which include:

• Avoid douching.
• Wear cotton underwear.
• Avoid close clothes.
• Use soft soap without fragrances for intimate hygiene.
• Follow hygiene rules during menstruation.
• Avoid excessive consumption of sugar and processed products.

It is important to remember:

• Before taking any dietary supplement, you need to consult a doctor.
• Bad is not a replacement for drugs prescribed by a doctor.
• If the symptoms of a vaginal infection occur, you must consult a doctor to diagnose and prescribe adequate treatment.

Dietary supplement to facilitate menopausal symptoms: phytoestrogens and others

Menopause is a natural period in a woman’s life, characterized by the cessation of menstruation and a decrease in the production of sex hormones (estrogen and progesterone). A decrease in estrogen levels can lead to various symptoms such as the ebbs of heat, night sweating, dry vagina, decrease in libido, sleep disturbance and mood change. Biologically active additives (dietary supplements) can help alleviate these symptoms.

1. Phytoestrogens:

• The mechanism of action: Phytoestrogens are plant compounds, which in their structure are similar to estrogens and can contact estrogen receptors in the body, having a weak estrogen -like effect.
• Types:
  • Isoflavon (soy, red clover): The isoflavons of soy and red clover are the most studied phytoestrogens. They can help reduce the ebbs of heat, night sweating, dry vagina and improve mood.
  • ** Lignans (seeds