Which of the following statements about vaginal microbes is false?

• A. The composition of vaginal microbiota can be influenced by hormonal changes.
• B. All vaginal microbes are harmful and cause disease.
• C. Lactobacillus species are the dominant bacteria in a healthy vaginal microbiota.
• D. Vaginal microbes play a role in protecting against pathogenic infections.

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Understand the role of vaginal microbiota. Recognize that the vaginal microbiota consists of various microorganisms, primarily bacteria, that live in the vaginal environment and contribute to its health.
2. Step 2: Review the influence of hormonal changes on vaginal microbiota. Hormones, especially estrogen, affect the vaginal environment and thus the composition of its microbial community.
3. Step 3: Identify the dominant bacteria in a healthy vaginal microbiota. Lactobacillus species are known to be the predominant beneficial bacteria that help maintain an acidic pH and protect against infections.
4. Step 4: Consider the protective role of vaginal microbes. These microbes help prevent colonization by harmful pathogens by competing for resources and producing antimicrobial substances.
5. Step 5: Evaluate the statement 'All vaginal microbes are harmful and cause disease.' Since many vaginal microbes are beneficial and essential for health, this statement is false.