Probiotics for vaginal health offer many benefits for vaginal yeast infections, bacterial vaginosis (BV), and urinary tract infections (UTIs). It’s important to observe changes in your stomach after you take probiotics. For vaginal health, probiotics are supplements of “good” bacteria. Probiotics help maintain a balance of healthy bacteria in the vagina and prevent yeast overgrowth that can cause vaginal infections.
Let’s explore the benefits of probiotics for vaginal health.
What Are Probiotics?
Probiotics are a mixture of helpful live bacteria and yeasts that naturally reside in your body. Probiotics Bacteria is typically seen as something that causes illness. There are both beneficial and dangerous bacteria in and on your body at any given time [1].
Good bacteria included in probiotics aid in maintaining a healthy and well-functioning body. Even if you have too much bacteria in your system, you will feel better due to its beneficial effects.
While probiotics are a vital part of your overall health care regimen, they should not be viewed in isolation. Our bodies are full of organisms that work together to maintain our health. The majority of this category consists of microbes [2].
Probiotics and Vaginal Health
However, several studies have shown the positive effects of the use of probiotics for vaginal health. Some fermented foods include live organisms known as probiotics, which are beneficial to the digestive system. They can also be found in dietary supplements [3].
It’s possible that they can assist treat gastrointestinal issues, diarrhea, and other diseases.
Probiotics are commonly used to treat the following conditions:
- According to specialists, a yeast infection known as vulvovaginal candidiasis (VVC) affects 7 out of 10 women at some point in their lives.
- The most frequent vaginal ailment in females aged 15–44 is Bacterial vaginosis (BV). Bacteria such as Gardnerella vaginalis and Prevotella bacteria may be connected to BV.
- Researchers have found no evidence that probiotics enhance health outcomes for pregnant women or fetuses, although 1 in 7 Dutch women use probiotic supplements during pregnancy, according to these estimates [4].
Types of Probiotics
Probiotics in the intestines are associated with better health, according to specialists. An apparent preponderance of Lactobacillus bacteria in the vagina is considered an indication of good vaginal health.
One strain, L. gasseri, is particularly beneficial in restoring the balance of bacteria in the vagina because it has a remarkable capacity to adhere to the walls of the vagina [5].
Moreover, other beneficial microbes discovered by scientists include Lycopsiphon iners and Lycopsiphon rhamnosus. Researchers found that taking more than 1 billion live organisms orally might lead to increased Lactobacillus colonization of women”s vaginal microbiomes.
Although vaginal insertion capsules were beneficial for some persons, oral tablets were the most effective method [6].
Probiotics are commonly sold as dietary supplements rather than drugs because of the laxer rules for these products. As a result, customers may be unsure of the potency and effectiveness of these “living” cultures.
Many individuals believe that probiotics, live organisms, provide a range of health advantages. A rising number of people are interested in utilizing probiotics to improve vaginal health. However, there isn’t enough thorough or conclusive research to support this claim.
The combination of antibiotics and probiotics may also be beneficial in treating BV and yeast infections. Probiotics for vaginal health should only be used after consulting with a physician or pharmacist [7].
What Are the Best Probiotics To Use?
Because bacterial vaginosis (BV) is caused by an imbalance of bacteria in the vagina, it stands to reason that taking probiotic pills to boost levels of “friendly” bacteria would be beneficial. However, which BV probiotics are the best?
Various probiotics have different effects, and scientists are aware of this. To be effective against BV, the strains used must be able to traverse the whole gastrointestinal system before migrating to the vagina and establishing a foothold there.
The effectiveness of vaginal probiotics has been studied extensively. The Lactobacillus genus is widely accepted as the most prevalent bacterial genus in a healthy vagina. As a result, most studies on probiotics for vaginal health focus on Lactobacillus species [8].
The following Lactobacillus strains have been studied in support of BV and are discussed in this section:
- Lactobacillus rhamnosus GR-1® and Lactobacillus reuteri RC-14®
- The lactobacillus paracasei F-19®
- Lactobacillus brevis CD2®, Lactobacillus salivarius FV2®, and Lactobacillus plantarum FV9®
- The lactobacillus acidophilus LA-14® and Lactobacillus rhamnosus HN001
- Lactobacillus crispatus CTV-05
Possible Health Benefits of Probiotics
Probiotics may provide a range of different health benefits, including the following:
Reduce UTIs
The fact that you’ve had a urinary tract infection (UTI or cystitis) doesn’t mean that you’re alone. According to research, approximately 40% to 60% of women will get a UTI at some point in their lives. 3 And you’ll be informed as soon as it occurs. Women are more likely than males to get a UTI.
Probiotics, on the other hand, may be able to assist. First and foremost, they can restore naturally existing vaginal flora. Second, the beneficial bacteria counteract the infection-causing harmful bacteria. This can lower the frequency and danger of a painful UTI flare-up [9].
Enhancing Vaginal Health
Taking the correct probiotics helps maintain a healthy balance in the vaginal microbiota. Vaginal yeast infections, urinary tract infections, and bacterial vaginosis can be prevented by regularly using this product. The lactobacilli found in a healthy vagina typically produce an acidic environment to prevent unwanted germs from flourishing.
Contraceptives, spermicides, and antibiotics, on the other hand, can wreak havoc with the natural balance of things. To keep common female urogenital issues at bay, probiotics might be used [10].
Infertility Treatment
Pregnant women may benefit from taking probiotics. Maintaining a healthy and pleasant vaginal tract might help alleviate various fertility-related issues.
Assisting with Immunity
Every now and again, we’re all a little worn out. Our immune systems may take a beating during the cold and flu season. The combination of demanding work schedules, complex work-life balances, and COVID-19 makes it simple to see the appeal of boosting your immune system with some friendly bacteria [11].
Boosting the Health of the Digestive system
Intestinal health requires more than just eating five servings of fruits and vegetables each day and adhering to a healthy diet. A healthy gastrointestinal system may be maintained by taking probiotics.
Because of this, it can help prevent the most frequent gastrointestinal diseases. It is possible to alleviate bloating, constipation, or diarrhea by obtaining the proper probiotic [12].
Promoting Better Gut Health
The gut-brain axis is a two-way street connecting the brain and the digestive tract. Some doctors believe that maintaining a healthy stomach may help alleviate diseases such as depression.
Reduced Bloating or Gas
Digestive processes release methane gas as a byproduct. By ensuring that your stomach has suitable microorganisms, you can reduce gas production.
Problems in your gut ecosystem may cause irritability and an overall sensation of sickness. The problem is that you have an abundance of one type of microorganism but not enough of another variety.
Probiotics may help you digest your meals more effectively by providing a steady supply of good microorganisms.
As a result, gas and bloating are two common symptoms. Your doctor should be aware of this so that they can help you address it. Even the most challenging stomach issues may be resolved straightforwardly [13].
Enhanced Vitality
The bacteria in our stomachs are responsible for breaking down the food we eat. As a result, your food may not travel as far as you want it to if you have the wrong bacteria.
Make specific that your body is home to good bacteria to get the most nourishment possible from your diet. After having a high-protein lunch, you’ll never be fatigued again. Knowing that you’ll be getting the nutrients your body needs when you eat will give you peace of mind [14].
You may consume a smaller portion and yet get the same quantity of nutrients as a further benefit. This presupposes that your gut flora was already out of whack. Please consult your physician immediately if this advice has caused you any health concerns. The underlying cause of your health issue will be discovered through a battery of testing.
Regular Bathroom Visits
Having to leave your seat mid-meeting to use the restroom is the last thing you want to deal with. But this can happen if your gut flora is out of balance. As a result, what can you do to remedy the situation? Take a probiotic supplement for a change!
We can’t discuss it in a way that’s both respectful and family-friendly. If your gut biome misbehaves, you may require the restroom more frequently. Occasionally, a probiotic may help with this, mainly if it often occurs [15].
Your doctor may be able to help you if you’re experiencing problems with your bowel movements regularly.
Side Effects of Probiotics
The Food and Drug Administration does not have jurisdiction over probiotics supplied as dietary supplements. As a result, representations made on their labels concerning the contents and operation of the products may also be false. You should thus use caution.
Probiotics need additional study to determine their safety. Scientists, on the other hand, have raised concerns about the following.
- Infections
- Unidentified substances with the potential for causing harm to one’s health
- Probiotic microbes can produce harmful chemicals.
Furthermore, an impaired immune system or a significant disease increases your vulnerability to adverse side effects [16].
Bottomline: Probiotics for Vaginal Health
Finally, many different kinds of probiotics are available as a natural method to preserve vaginal health. Choosing a probiotic product that has live and active cultures is essential. The product should also be evaluated for purity and safety before being purchased.
Probiotics may also be a viable solution for enhancing vaginal health. Regardless, you should always check with your doctor before beginning any new treatment.
Disclaimer: This article is only a guide. It does not substitute the advice given by your own healthcare professional. Before making any health-related decision, consult your healthcare professional.
