Whether found in foods like pickles, yogurt or sauerkraut, or even as a supplement, probiotics aid in gut health. Live microorganisms, probiotics survive in your gut when ingested and provide more of the good bacteria that we naturally have.
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But is it possible that those same probiotics can help with the health of your vagin*?
The research is promising, says Ob/Gyn Oluwatosin Goje, MD.
“ManyLactobacillusstrains possess probiotic properties, and several studies demonstrate the ability ofLactobacillusto adhere to vagin*l and cervical epithelial cells,” explains Dr. Goje. “NumerousLactobacillusstrains have been shown to be active against the main pathogens responsible for bacterial infections of the vagin*l and urinary tract.”
Some Lactobacillusstrains that can help with vagin*l health include:
- Lactobacillusacidophilus.
- Lactobacillusrhamnosus.
- Lactobacillusgasseri.
- Lactobacilluscrispatus.
- Lactobacillus jensenii.
- Lactobacillusreuteri.
Dr. Goje explains the research around probiotics and vagin*l health.
vagin*l concerns related to microbiomes
It’s estimated that about 100 trillion microbes are found inside the human body, with many of them residing in our gut.
But there are also more than 50 different microbes that live inside of your vagin*. Researchers are just beginning to study the connection between the gut microbiome and vagin*l microbiome, says Dr. Goje.
“There is a possibility of ‘crosstalk’ between the gut and vagin* microbiota; however, we still need more research to understand the relationship,” she continues. “The transfer of bacterial strain from the gut to the vagin* has been indicated in a lab. But the question of if we can balance vagin*l health via gut health is still experimental.”
vagin*l imbalances can lead to bacterial vaginosis and yeast infections.
These imbalances can be caused by:
- Having unprotected sex.
- Changes in hormones.
- Having a menstrual cycle.
- Poor hygiene.
Bacterial vaginosis
Bacterial vaginosis (BV), a common vagin*l infection, happens when normal bacteria that live in your vagin* overgrow, causing a bacterial imbalance and changes in vagin*l pH.
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Symptoms may include:
- Off-white, gray or greenish color vagin*l discharge.
- Discharge that smells “fishy.”
- A “fishy” smell that is stronger after sex or during your menstrual cycle.
In some individuals, BV goes away without treatment. But in others, antibiotics may be needed to treat this infection.
Studies show that taking probiotics like Lactobacillus crispatus may treat and even help prevent BV.
“The vagin*l application of Lactobacillus crispatus after treatment of BV with a topical antibiotic decreased recurrence for three months after the last dose of the probiotic,” notes Dr. Goje.
Yeast infections
A vagin*l yeast infection is a type of vaginitis, a condition where your vagin* is swollen, painful and creates a discharge. vagin*l yeast infections happen to more than 1 million individuals in the United States every year.
Symptoms may include:
- An itchy sensation in your vagin* and vulva.
- A thick, white vagin*l discharge with the consistency of cottage cheese.
- Redness and swelling of your vagin* and vulva.
- Small cuts or tiny cracks in the skin of your vulva.
- A burning feeling when you urinate.
A vagin*l yeast infection traditionally is treated with an antifungal medication. This type of medication is specifically used to combat overgrowths of yeast in your body.
But Lactobacillus rhamnosus can also be helpful when it comes to yeast infections. The probiotic can survive acidic conditions in the human body leading to long-term benefits.
“Lactobacillus rhamnosus, the most researched probiotic, has been found to be beneficial in the prevention of yeast infection,” explains Dr. Goje. “Research shows that Lactobacillus rhamnosus kills bacteria and yeast in the vagin*. It can restore the urogenital flora in individuals with a history of BV, yeast vaginitis or urinary tract infections (UTIs).”
Lactoferrin, a protein and one of the major antimicrobial components of our immune system, has been found to kill bacteria in the vagin*. A combination of oral lactoferrin with or without oral or vagin*l Lactobacillus may restore balance in your vagin* and prevent frequent infections.
Do I need probiotics for pH balance?
Different areas of the human body have their own pH balance, including your blood, skin and reproductive system.
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You may have seen products claiming to help balance the pH of your vagin*. So, is vagin*l pH balance something you need to be concerned about?
Your vagin*l pH levels play a role in preventing infections, supporting healthy pregnancies and any hormonal changes.
How acidic a substance is runs from 0 to 14. A pH of less than 7 is considered acidic, and a pH of more than 7 is basic. Maintaining a normal vagin*l pH greater than 4.5 could help achieve a balanced vagin*l environment and prevent recurrent BV.
Turning to probiotics may help with your vagin*l pH balance.
“Probiotics, or lactobacillus found in probiotics, produce lactic acid which subsequently produces hydrogen peroxide,” says Dr. Goje. “Production of hydrogen peroxide contributes to a healthy vagin*, establishing defense against pathogens.”
Strains to look for to promote overall health
There are around 500 different strains of probiotics. When it comes to promoting the overall health of your vagin*, you want to look for probiotics Lactobacillus crispatus andLactobacillus rhamnosus, which have been shown in human trials to be beneficial for vagin*l health.
- Lactobacillus crispatus.This strain is one of the predominant ones found in the vagin*l microbiota and produces hydrogen peroxide. Lactobacillus crispatus is available as a supplement.
- Lactobacillus rhamnosus.This strain is typically found in your intestines and produces lactase, an enzyme. Lactase can break down sugar lactose into lactic acid. Lactobacillus rhamnosus is available as a supplement, but is also added to foods like yogurt, cheese, milk and other dairy products.
“I recommend reading the labels and confirming it has Lactobacillus crispatus and or Lactobacillus rhamnosus amongst the other Lactobacillus in the probiotic,” says Dr. Goje. “Probiotics come as a combination of various Lactobacillus. Some have lactoferrin and those targeting UTI prevention may have cranberry extracts.”
While probiotics don’t have any side effects, make sure you take any supplements as directed. And if you have recurrent BV and yeast infections, even after trying medications and probiotic supplements, it’s important to see your doctor.
