Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) includes antibiotic resistance! Antimicrobials are therapeutic substances used to prevent or treat infections. Antibiotics, antiseptics, antivirals, and antifungals all fall under the antimicrobial “umbrella”.

AMR can occur when microbes (like bacteria and fungi) evolve and develop mechanisms to protect themselves from the effects of antimicrobials. Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) genes can reveal the resistance potential within a sample’s microbial community to certain treatments.

Risk factors for AMR include the overuse and misuse of antibiotics - which is why knowing the composition of your vaginal microbiome is key when choosing the best treatment option!