Our Isala research is entering a brand new phase! In 2020, we conducted a large-scale study to map the vaginal microbiome in Flanders. In doing so, we identified various lifestyle and environmental factors that can influence the vaginal microbiome. Now, the Isala train is continuing at full speed with brand new daughter studies. In these studies, we are examining the effects of vitamins, fasting, family relationships, etc. on women’s health. Once again, we can count on the great support of our amazing participants. Together, we write history!
Our Isala researchers are learning a lot. In addition to bacteria in the vagina, we are now (for the first time in our Isala history!) also examining gut bacteria thanks to hundreds of stool samples collected by our participants. In this new phase, we are keen to investigate the link between bacteria in the gut and vagina and bacteria in other parts of the female body.
Similar to what occurs in the vaginal microbiome, every woman also has her own unique composition of her gut microbiome. In order to present this large amount of information in a clear manner, we have chosen to focus on fifteen important gut bacteria. Of course, many more than these fifteen genera were found, and we are grouping them together in the “other type of bacteria” category at this stage. It is important to note that Isala’s research is innovative and pioneering, so it is quite possible that we will add more bacteria in the future.
By clicking on one of the bacteria on this page, you can read many more details. Are you curious about more general background to the Isala results? Then you should read more here. Are you interested in (one of) our Isala daughter studies? Find out more here.
Did you participate in Isala or a daughter study and are you looking for your personal results? Then you can log in here (Dutch)!
