What’s Really Causing Vaginal Infections? Swimming, Nutrition, Sex, and Other Surprising Reasons

Most people with vaginas will experience a vaginal infection at some point—whether it's a yeast infection, bacterial vaginosis (BV), or another imbalance. And while over-the-counter treatments may bring temporary relief, recurrent infections can be a sign that something deeper is going on. So, what actually contributes to these disruptions in vaginal health?

Here’s a closer look at some of the most common — but often overlooked — factors.

1. Nutritional Deficiencies: Imbalances That Can Domino

Your body needs a solid foundation of nutrients to maintain a balanced microbiome and a resilient immune system. Key players like vitamin D, vitamin A, B vitamins, iron, and zinc are crucial for mucosal immunity — the body's ability to defend delicate tissues like the vaginal lining. When these are low, your body is more vulnerable to infections and inflammation.

Low vitamin C can also reduce collagen production and tissue integrity, making it harder for the body to heal after irritation or infection.

2. Weakened Immune System & Gut Health: It’s All Connected

Your immune system is your first line of defense against pathogens — and roughly 70% of it resides in your gut. That means if your gut microbiome is out of balance, so is your immune function.

Conditions like leaky gut, dysbiosis (imbalance of gut bacteria), and chronic stress can impair the immune system's ability to keep harmful microbes in check — not just in the gut, but also in the vagina. The gut and vaginal microbiomes are interconnected, and disruptions in one can echo into the other.

3. Swimming: More Than Just Poolside Fun

Taking a dip might be refreshing, but it’s not always friendly to your vaginal microbiome. Chlorinated water and prolonged wetness can:

• Disrupt vaginal pH (which should be slightly acidic)

• Encourage the growth of unwanted bacteria or yeast

• Wash away protective lactobacilli — the "good" bacteria that keep the vaginal environment healthy

And if you’re swimming in natural bodies of water like lakes or oceans? There’s potential exposure to bacteria, parasites, and other microbes that can find their way into the vagina, especially during menstruation or if the vaginal barrier is compromised.

4. Sexual Partners: Bacterial Cross-Talk

Sex introduces new bacteria — plain and simple. Whether it’s a new partner or a longtime one, intercourse can disrupt the delicate balance of vaginal flora. Contributing factors include:

• Semen's alkaline pH, which can upset the vagina’s acidity

• Use of lubricants or condoms with additives that irritate tissue

• Unwashed hands or toys introducing foreign microbes

• Partners with imbalanced skin or oral microbiomes passing bacteria during intimacy

If you feel like your V keeps getting thrown off after being with someone, consider asking them to get checked for their own imbalances.

5. Antibiotic Use: Disruptive and Nondiscriminatory

Antibiotics are often essential—but they don’t discriminate. While they eliminate harmful bacteria, they also wipe out the beneficial strains that help protect the gut and vagina. This can lead to an overgrowth of yeast or allow other harmful bacteria to take hold.

If you’re taking antibiotics, consider supplementing with probiotics and supporting your diet with foods that help rebuild microbial diversity.

6. Other Contributing Factors

Several lifestyle and hormonal factors can also impact vaginal health:

• Tight or synthetic clothing that traps heat and moisture

• Hormonal shifts from menstruation, pregnancy, menopause, or birth control

• Chronic stress, which weakens immune defenses

• Scented products, douches, and wipes that irritate or disrupt the natural flora

Supporting Vaginal Health from the Inside Out

If you’re experiencing recurring infections, it’s worth taking a step back to explore the bigger picture. Addressing internal imbalances and practicing proactive care — rather than just treating symptoms — can lead to longer-lasting results.

A few key ways to support your vaginal microbiome:

• Eat a nutrient-rich diet and address any deficiencies

• Support gut health with probiotics and whole foods

• Use The V Seal when swimming to reduce microbiome disruption

• Be mindful of what you introduce during intimacy

• Rebuild your microbiome after antibiotic use

Your vaginal health is a reflection of your overall health. With the right support, your body can return to balance and stay there.