Category Archives: Blog

Lichen Sclerosus, Menopause & the Microbiome Lichen sclerosus (LS) is often managed as a local inflammatory skin condition, with topical corticosteroids forming the cornerstone of treatment for many. But emerging research is pushing us to think more broadly. A recent study examining gut, vaginal, and skin microbiomes in peri- and postmenopausal women with vulvar lichenContinue Reading

HSV holistic approaches and quick relief strategies Working with HSV requires holistic approaches and quick relief strategies. At Intimate Ecology, naturopathic support for recurrent HSV outbreaks provides two layers of support. A safe space to feel seen and heard and to receive the care you deserve. Support for herpes doesn’t always come from one avenue.Continue Reading

By Dr. Moira Bradfield Strydom, PhD, M.Acu, B.Nat At Intimate Ecology, we regularly work with people who, through vaginal microbiome testing, discover the presence of Ureaplasma and Mycoplasma species, members of the Mollicutes family. Usually, the testing has been done because there are pre-existing health symptoms like recurrent symptoms or if people are embarking onContinue Reading

For years, recurrent bacterial vaginosis (BV) was framed as a “vaginal imbalance” that individuals had to manage alone. Holistically, we have long advocated for partner treatment as a way to reduce microbial sharing. However this notion was not as accepted or considered in standard medical practice until 2025. In 2025, landmark clinical research led byContinue Reading

Polycule Vaginal Microbiome Care A microbiome-informed approach to recurrent vaginal dysbiosis in interconnected and same-sex relationships. Recurrent vaginal dysbiosis, including conditions such as bacterial vaginosis (BV) and vulvovaginal candidiasis (VVC) have traditionally been approached as an issue confined to the individual. Treatment models have focused on restoring microbial balance within a single vaginal ecosystem. However,Continue Reading