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Top 19 Best Probiotics for Vaginal Health

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Written by Andrew Le, MD.
Medically reviewed by
Clinical Physician Assistant, Summit Health
Last updated July 25, 2024

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Today, when it comes to their reproductive health, women are taking matters into their own hands in this age of freedom of choice and expression. Probiotic pills are a popular choice among women who are choosing natural and holistic remedies for intimate health issues since they can help restore balance to the vaginal ecology. That being said, which probiotics are the best for vaginal health among the plethora of options and growing consumer interest on the market?

Follow along as I discuss the advantages of some of the best vaginal probiotics available so you can decide what's best for your intimate health.

Understanding the Vaginal Environment

Within the vagina, many kinds of germs and microbes dwell peacefully to support a woman's reproductive system, making it one of the most complicated habitats out there. The bacteria' only job is to defend your body against pathogens that cause sickness. But the abnormalities in the vaginal microbiome—overgrowth or complete absence of certain microbes—can leave your body vulnerable to illness.

A bacterium called Lactobacillus is the main microorganism in the vagina. These beneficial bacteria create hydrogen peroxide, which inhibits the growth of pathogens in the vagina, and lactic acid, which maintains the pH levels in the vagina in a balanced manner to prevent yeast formation. This and other microorganisms may become unbalanced as a result of:

  • Use of broad-spectrum antibiotics that eliminate both the good and harmful bacteria.
  • Changes in hormonal levels due to pregnancy, menstruation, or menopause alter the vaginal PH balance.
  • Sexual intercourse whereby harmful bacteria access the vaginal canal.
  • Use of hygiene products like soap and douches that alter the vaginal PH balance.

Top 3 Best Probiotics for Vaginal Health

  1. Luma Nutrition Probiotics for Women with Prebiotics
  2. VS-01™ Vaginal Synbiotic
  3. Vinatura Lactobacillus

Luma Nutrition Probiotics for Women with Prebiotics - 50 Billion CFU

Editor's Choice

Luma Nutrition Probiotics for Women with Prebiotics is one of the best probiotics that help improve vaginal health. Packed with 50 billion CFUs, it is specifically designed for women and enhances digestion, immunity, and vaginal health. It contains strains such as Lactobacillus acidophilus and Bifidobacterium lactis to make it the women’s wellness hero in a 60-capsule bottle.

See Price of Luma Nutrition Probiotics for Women with Prebiotics on Amazon

Luma Nutrition probiotics for women with prebiotics has stood out as the best probiotic for vaginal health on the market today. This supplement contains 50 billion CFU per serving, and it is designed to target women’s health concerns. The addition of prebiotics makes the formula more efficient, as the formula feeds and supports the growth and functionality of the good bacteria within the gut. For this reason, it is advantageous to have a probiotic formula that performs two functions at once, as is the case with Luma Nutrition Probiotics, for supporting digestive health, immune function, as well as vaginal health.

Pros

  • It is specifically designed for women's unique health needs, including vaginal health, making it a tailored solution for female wellness.
  • The inclusion of prebiotics in the formula ensures that the probiotic bacteria have the necessary nutrients to thrive and flourish in your gut, enhancing their effectiveness.
  • Offers comprehensive support by promoting digestive health and boosting the immune system, which can lead to overall improved well-being.
  • It comes in easy-to-use capsules, making it convenient for daily consumption and ensuring a consistent intake of probiotics.

Cons

  • It is costly compared to other supplements
  • While designed for women, this product may not be suitable for individuals with specific health conditions or those seeking probiotics with different strain profiles.

Another aspect that distinguishes Luma Nutrition Probiotics from the other products is its targeted approach toward feminine health, and this makes it perfect for women who want to get their vagina in the best shape possible. In essence, this supplement helps facilitate proper bacterial colonization of the vagina and eliminate sources of constant discomfort such as yeast infections and bacterial vaginosis.

Its carefully selected probiotic strains together with Lactobacillus acidophilus and Bifidobacterium lactis help on establishing a proper bacteria balance for the woman’s body. In each bottle of Luma Nutrition Probiotics, you get 60 capsules which means that women who hope to positively transform their overall health inclusive of their digestion, immunity, and female health can get a positive transformation from this brand and therefore, Luma Nutrition Probiotics deserves its place among the best probiotics for women.

Order VS-01™ Vaginal Synbiotic Now!

Designed to support a healthy vaginal microbiome, this supplement offers a comprehensive solution for women looking to balance their vaginal flora. With its unique blend of probiotics and prebiotics, VS-01™ promises enhanced vaginal health, reduced infections, and improved overall well-being.

Pros:

  • Contains a potent blend of probiotics and prebiotics
  • Specifically formulated for vaginal health
  • Easy-to-take capsule form
  • Non-GMO and gluten-free
  • Backed by scientific research

Cons:

  • Premium pricing
  • May take time to see noticeable results

VS-01™ Vaginal Synbiotic includes a carefully selected combination of probiotics, such as Lactobacillus rhamnosus and Lactobacillus reuteri, known for their benefits in promoting vaginal health. Additionally, the inclusion of prebiotics helps nourish these beneficial bacteria, ensuring their effectiveness. Each capsule is designed for easy ingestion and is free from common allergens like gluten and GMOs. The formulation is backed by scientific research, providing confidence in its efficacy.

Our experience with VS-01™ Vaginal Synbiotic has been positive. After consistent use, we noticed a significant improvement in vaginal health, with fewer infections and better overall comfort. The easy-to-swallow capsules fit seamlessly into our daily routine, making it convenient to maintain our regimen. While it may take some time to experience the full benefits, the long-term results are worth the wait. The product's scientific backing and targeted formulation make it a reliable choice for those seeking to improve their vaginal health naturally.

See Price of Vinatura Lactobacillus on Amazon

Vinatura’s Lactobacillus Rhamnosus, Reuteri, Gasseri, Plantarum, Crispatus, and Acidophilus probiotics offers the best vaginal health solution.

Pros

  • Diverse Strain Selection: Vinatura's formula includes a diverse array of probiotic strains, such as Lactobacillus Rhamnosus, Reuteri, Gasseri, Plantarum, Crispatus, and Acidophilus, ensuring comprehensive support for vaginal health.
  • Targeted Benefits: Experience relief from discomfort as these probiotics work synergistically to combat imbalances and enhance overall feminine well-being.
  • Immune Boost: The formulation contributes to a robust immune system, providing defense against potential infections and promoting resilience.

Cons

  • Possible Initial Discomfort: Some users may experience mild discomfort initially as the probiotics work to rebalance the vaginal microbiome.
  • Variable Results: Individual responses may vary, and noticeable improvements may take time, requiring consistent use for optimal results.

I can say, without a doubt, that this probiotic blend is one of the best products that Vinatura has to offer. Since we have seen it work for us and as we have also experienced some relief from the discomfort and healthier vagina, then it will be easy to recommend it. Not only do the carefully selected strains benefit the vagina, but the effects extend much further, including a boost to the immune system.

It has to be stated that the individual experiences vary, and the constant use of these probiotics will yield the best results. Don’t wait any longer to begin your path to complete wellness – use Vinatura’s Probiotics and supplements of Lactobacillus Rhamnosus, Reuteri, Gasseri, Plantarum, Crispatus, and Acidophilus for your every feminine health concern.

See Price of HUM Private Party Pills on Amazon

If you are a woman and you need to take good care of your vagina, Private Party pills from HUM could be a godsend. To enhance women’s well-being, the pill is made uniquely with the intention of balancing pH and supporting vaginal flora.

Pros

  • Tailored blend of cranberry and Lactobacillus for enhanced vaginal health
  • Promotes a healthy vaginal odor and balanced vaginal flora
  • Supports overall women's health and well-being

Cons

  • May require consistent use for noticeable results
  • Some individuals may find the price point relatively high

Every HUM Private Party Pill capsule is carefully formulated with cranberry and Lactobacillus, with a focus on the sensitive balance of vaginal environment. This unique formulation not only promotes the vaginal flora balance, but also supports the regulation of the vagina smell, thus providing confidence and comfort.

In addition, this supplement goes further, offering benefits that are outside the realm of vaginal care and impacting general women’s health. However, regular use may be required for many people in order to have the kind of benefits that are often claimed. Finally, despite the proven quality and effectiveness, the price may be viewed as a factor by some customers.

See price of The Vitamin Kitchen Vaginal Probiotics on Amazon

If you're a woman seeking optimal vaginal health, The Vitamin Kitchen's Vaginal Probiotics for Women-Pro-Natural Women Probiotic offers a compelling solution. Packed with 5 billion CFU, this probiotic supplement promotes a healthy vaginal microbiome, aiding in odor control and pH balance.

Pros

  • 5 billion CFU for optimal vaginal health
  • Vegan-friendly and non-GMO
  • Helps control odor and maintains pH balance

Cons

  • Some may find the serving size too large
  • May take time to see noticeable results

The high selling point of this product is that it contains 5 billion CFU to maintain the best wellbeing of the vagina. Being vegan-friendly and non-GMO, it particularly helps in reducing smell and regulation of acidity that are key issues to do with proper vaginal health.

However, for those people who feel that they cannot manage to take large servings of foods and beverages, then this product may pose some sort of a challenge to them. Furthermore, as is the case with most supplements, regular use might be necessary for meaningful progress rates to be achieved.

See Price of Physician's Choice Vaginal Probiotics for Women on Amazon

If you're a woman seeking optimal vaginal health, Physician's Choice Vaginal Probiotics for Women offers a great solution.

Pros:

  • Promotes vaginal health with a blend of probiotic strains which are known to help maintain a healthy vaginal pH and prevent infections.
  • Shelf-stable and doesn't require refrigeration, making it convenient for travel and daily use.
  • Trusted brand

Cons:

  • Individual response may vary
  • Possible side effects bloating or gas, which typically subsides after a few days.
  • Not a substitute for medical treatment

Having firsthand experience with Physician’s Choice Vaginal Probiotics for Women, we would readily endorse this product for anyone who may require targeted probiotic support for their vagina. These veggie connected probiotics work to encourage a proper balance of the vaginal bacteria, which is important for us to be in optimal health and avoid most of the minor conditions like yeast infections and bacterial vaginosis. This supplement has been useful in replenishing the friendly bacteria strands like Lactobacillus acidophilus and Lactobacillus rhamnosus making us sustain a healthy vaginal pH balance avoiding worry and vulnerability to infections.

Also, we value that Physician’s Choice Vaginal Probiotics has natural compounds that do not bring about the inclusion of extra fillers or allergens, making the product ideal for sensitive personalities. Moreover, the fact that they are tablets that we can take once daily also helps us to maintain our vaginal health effectively.

Order YourBiology Gut+ Now!

YourBiology Gut+ is proven to be a highly effective probiotic supplement to improve overall vaginal health, which makes it one of the best in the market. I am not implying that this blend of the probiotic strains fully addresses the problem of microbial disturbances in the female reproductive tract but I must say that this is formulated uniquely to balance the bacterial flora in the vagina. The positive impact of the various types of beneficial bacteria in Gut+ includes the proper regulation of the acidity in the vaginal ecosystem, thus not allowing the presence of undesirable pathogens to thrive, consequently causing discomfort and infections.

This supplement is also clinically proven to be effective in strengthening the immune system of the body further preventing problems such as yeast infections and bacterial vaginosis among others. When used daily, the supplements help maintain the correct balance of bacteria in the vagina, thereby improving the health and wellness of female reproductive systems.

Pros

  • It contains a high concentration of live probiotic cultures, ensuring that a sufficient number of beneficial bacteria reach the vaginal area to make a positive impact.
  • It is developed based on scientific research and uses well-studied strains to ensure its effectiveness.
  • It restores and maintain a healthy vaginal microbiome, reducing the risk of infections and discomfort.

Cons

  • Can be relatively expensive
  • To maintain the benefits, regular and consistent use of Gut+ is necessary, which can be a commitment for some users.
  • Effectiveness can vary from person to person
See Price of EU Natural Flourish Probiotics + Prebiotics on Amazon

Refresh your wellness with EU Natural Flourish Probiotics + Prebiotics for Women as the all-in-one supplement for gut and digestion, urinary system, and minimizing bloating. Lactobacillus rhamnosus, Lactobacillus Boulardii, Lactobacillus Acidophilus, and 15 other clinically tested bacteria are included in this blend, with a concentration of 14 billion CFU, designed for the health of the vagina.

Pros

  • Clinically proven strains for effective results in gut and digestion support.
  • Specifically designed for women, addressing urinary tract concerns.
  • Prebiotics enhance the growth of beneficial bacteria, promoting balance.
  • Reduces bloating, providing relief from discomfort.

Cons

  • Individual reactions may vary, with potential mild side effects.
  • Results may take time, requiring consistent use for noticeable improvements.

It has 18 strains that have been clinically tested, and they act in harmony to maintain gut and urinary health. Incorporation of prebiotics aims at promoting the growth of useful bacteria in the gut hence achieving a healthy balance of the microbiota.

For women seeking enhanced vaginal health, this formula is a game-changer. By addressing specific feminine concerns, such as imbalances and discomfort, EU Natural Flourish Probiotics + Prebiotics fosters a holistic approach to well-being. Say goodbye to bloating and embrace a journey to improved digestive and urinary tract health.

However, compared to regular probiotics, EU Natural Flourish is a brand that takes quality and safety seriously. Thorough testing helps to avoid the usage of dangerous additives that might have negative impacts on your health. Include EU Natural Flourish Probiotics + Prebiotics into your system of use as a way of enhancing your body functionality and productivity. Increase your wellness and enjoy the feeling of competence that arises from balanced and thriving system.

See Price of Ultra Probiotic - 60B SBO Probiotic on Amazon

Unlock optimal vaginal health with Ultra Probiotic - 60B SBO Probiotic. This powerhouse supplement is meticulously crafted to elevate your well-being. Boasting a potent blend of 60 billion Soil-Based Organisms (SBOs), it stands as a pinnacle for women seeking top-tier probiotic support.

Pros

  • Potent SBO Blend: Enriched with 60 billion Soil-Based Organisms, Ultra Probiotic delivers a robust army of beneficial bacteria to fortify your vaginal microbiome.
  • Vaginal Health Champion: Specifically formulated for women, this probiotic is a dedicated ally in maintaining and restoring the delicate balance crucial for optimal vaginal health.
  • Digestive Harmony: Beyond vaginal benefits, the probiotic promotes digestive harmony, reducing bloating and discomfort, ensuring you feel your best from the inside out.

Cons

  • Adjustment Period: Some users may experience a brief adjustment period as the powerful probiotic works to rebalance the microbiome. Be patient; the long-term benefits are worth it.
  • Limited Availability: Due to its popularity, Ultra Probiotic - 60B SBO Probiotic may experience occasional stock shortages. Secure yours promptly to ensure uninterrupted support.

Having tested and implemented the Ultra Probiotic into our daily regime, we have seen the magic happen. Improved vaginal health, coupled with a general improvement in human health, proves its effectiveness. The supplement's stability, even without refrigeration, speaks to its convenience.

For best outcome, it is advised that you should take two capsules in a day. One can wake up in the morning and pop a pill, and this won’t cause any disruption of the daily work schedule. When taken together with a proper diet and exercise, it will provide overall body wellness.

Based on a comprehensive evaluation of the Ultra Probiotic - 60B SBO Probiotic supplement, it can be argued that it is much more than just a supplement; it is an investment in the overall health of one’s vagina as well as the digestive tract. Revitalize your life with the help of 60 billion SBOs and feel the difference at a whole new level. Improve your wellbeing with this powerful product – Ultra Probiotic.

See Price of Naturenetics Probiotics 30 Billion CFU Guaranteed on Amazon

Unleash the ultimate power of vaginal health and vitality with Naturenetics Probiotics 30 Billion CFU Supported. It is accurately formulated to guarantee a 30 billion colony-forming units per dose in order to provide potency for optimal performance.

Pros

  • Naturenetics Probiotics guarantees 30 Billion CFU, delivering a potent punch of beneficial bacteria to support vaginal health.
  • A thoughtfully curated blend of probiotic strains promotes a harmonious balance in the delicate environment of the vagina.
  • Beyond vaginal health, these probiotics contribute to overall immune function, fortifying your body's defenses.

Cons

  • Some users may experience mild adjustments as the probiotics work to establish a balanced microbiome. This is normal and temporary.
  • Results may vary from person to person, and consistency is key to experiencing the full spectrum of benefits.

What we have seen with Naturenetics Probiotics 30 Billion CFU Guaranteed has been quite exciting. We experienced a considerable decrease in vaginal discomfort and also observed increased vaginal well-being. Packed with the goodness of the ingredients, this probiotic is actually safe for most of the popular diets.

Convenience is the other advantage it comes with; having a once-a-day run is convenient and easy to manage. If you are already a probiotic kind of person or newly inclined, Naturenetics Probiotics is a trusted solution to vaginal problems.

Overall, therefore, this product is one of the best for those who are willing to maintain the health of their vagina. Enhance your intimate health experience with this carefully formulated probiotic supplement and feel empowered with a healthy vaginal flora.

See Price of Nature's Way Probiotic Pearls Women on Amazon

Nature's Way Probiotic Pearls Women has been a lifesaver, especially during the holidays when I need to carry my probiotic supplements around. The pack fits perfectly in my hand purse, and the pearls are enclosed in a blister pack that prevents them from getting contaminated. This formulation delivers 1 billion colony-forming units of Lactobacillus Acidophilus, Lactobacillus Rhamnosus, and Lactobacillus plantarum.

To me, this is a holistic supplement that could be of help in so many different ways. Besides giving my immune system the support it needs, it has benefits also for vagina and urinary tracts as well as the digestive system. The pearl-based soft gel triple-layered structure is a true masterpiece: the cultures inside stay intact until the gel is in the small intestine.

Pros

  • It's easy to carry
  • It's easy to swallow
  • It's gluten-free
  • It contains no flavors
  • It's affordable

Cons

  • It contains soy
  • It contains fish
  • Can cause nausea
See Price of Love Wellness Vaginal Probiotics for Women on Amazon

This probiotic is loaded with cultures from 8 different strains, namely Lactobacillus Acidophilus, Lactobacillus Rhamnosus, Lactobacillus Plantarum, Lactobacillus Brevis, Lactobacillus Paracasei, Lactobacillus Gasseri, Lactobacillus Casei and Lactobacillus Salivarius that work together to support vaginal health. This combination helps to support a balanced pH and promote healthy yeast levels and urinary tract health. It also keeps your immune system, gut, and general reproductive health.

One of the reasons why this probiotic is a favorite for me is it comes in easy-to-swallow tablets. I also appreciate that you can open this tablet up and mix the contents with your favorite drink if you struggle to swallow the capsules. The packaging bottle because it fits perfectly in my purse, so I can have my probiotics whenever I travel.

Pros

  • No refrigeration required
  • It's not flavored
  • It's gluten-free
  • It's dairy-free

Cons

  • Capsules may be hard to swallow
  • It's highly-priced
See Price of Lovebug Yeast + Vaginal pH Support on Amazon

This probiotic supplement has colony-forming units of 50 billion. It comes with five strains of probiotics, which include Lactobacillus Rhamnosus, Lactobacillus Casei, Bifidobacterium Lactis, Lactobacillus Plantarum, and Lactobacillus Paracasei, which help to restore a balanced vaginal microbiome and prevent yeast infections. This probiotic brand also contains Pacran or cranberry fruit powder which I found very effective in preventing urinary tract infections.

Pros

  • It doesn't contain any flavors
  • Its ingredients have been clinically tested
  • It comes in easy-to-swallow capsules
  • It has won a Product of the Year Eco-Excellence award

Cons

  • It is highly priced


Innate Vitality Women's Probiotics

See Price of Innate Vitality Women's Probiotics on Amazon

You can choose this formulation if you prefer probiotics made with 100% natural, vegan-friendly ingredients and Kosher and Halal certified. This probiotic supplement delivers 120 billion cultures derived from 32 probiotic strains. It also contains food-based prebiotics and 13 food plant-derived enzymes, which helped to balance my gut and vaginal microbiome and boost my immune health.

This probiotic supplement is third-party tested for potency and purity. It is also manufactured in a GMP-certified factory and meets the requisite quality standards for food and medical supplements. The bottle packaging allows me to carry my probiotics safely when traveling.

Pros

  • Its shelf stable
  • It's fairly priced
  • It has a 60-day 100% money-back guarantee

Cons

  • Can cause bloating

Complete Vaginal Probiotics for Women

See Price of Complete Vaginal Probiotics for Women on Amazon

I purchased this product because it is fairly priced for a pack of 60 capsules. It is also cranberry flavored, which motivates me to take probiotics and doesn't leave an aftertaste in my mouth. This unique formulation contains a mix of four probiotics, i.e., Lactobacillus acidophilus, Lactobacillus plantarum, Lactobacillus rhamnosus, and Lactobacillus reuteri, which help maintain a balanced vaginal pH.

This probiotic formulation also contains D-Mannose, which helps me to keep urinary tract infections at bay. Another reason I like this probiotic supplement because it doesn't contain dairy, gluten, soya, fish, nuts, or GMOs like other formulations in the market.

Pros

  • It's ideal for pregnant women
  • It helps to reduce constipation
  • It is fairly priced
  • It's packed in easy-to-swallow capsules

Cons

  • It contains caking agents
See Price of Ancient Nutrition Probiotic for Women on Amazon

The benefits of apple cider vinegar, various soil-based superfoods, and naturally fermented cranberries are combined in this probiotic supplement. These superfoods help keep the vaginal yeast population in a healthy balance. To maintain a healthy vaginal microbiome, it contains four probiotic strains with 25 billion colony-forming units.

This brand leverages the wisdom of Traditional Chinese Herbalism and Ayurveda to produce 100% organic probiotic supplements. These capsules do not contain gluten, soy, dairy, or artificial sweeteners. The package is also appealing, provides easy dispensation of my one capsule-a-day dosage, and is ideal for safe storage without refrigeration.

Pros

  • It's available over the counter
  • Provides quick results
  • It doesn't cause bloating
  • It has no aftertaste

Cons

  • It's highly-priced
See Price of Nature Target Probiotics for Women on Amazon

This women's health probiotic supplement contains Lactobacillus Acidophilus to balance my vaginal pH, Lactobacillus Crispatus to relieve symptoms of Bacterial Vaginosis, and Lactobacillus Rhamnosus strains to prevent urinary tract infections. One capsule serving of this formulation delivers up to 50 billion colony-forming units to support vaginal health in women. It comes in a freeze-dried compressed tablet with a barrier that protects it from getting dissolved by stomach acid as it moves to the intestines.

This probiotic has immense vaginal, digestive, urinary tract, and immune health benefits. Additionally, it helps me to manage my weight and maintain healthy skin. It is guaranteed to provide 100% live cultures from manufacturing to expiry.

Pros

  • It is gluten-free
  • It is dairy-free
  • Its soy-free
  • Its egg-free
  • Its non-GMO
  • It has a 100% money-back guarantee
  • It doesn't require refrigeration

Cons

  • Risk of broken tablets
  • It has a bitter taste

Biom Vaginal Probiotic Suppository

See Price of Biom Vaginal Probiotic Suppository on Amazon

Do you prefer a suppository vaginal probiotic over the oral options in the market? You are not alone. This probiotic contains probiotic strains like Lactobacillus Acidophilus, Lactobacillus Cristapus, Bacillus Coagulans, and Lactobacillus Gasseri, which work together to restore healthy vaginal flora. It also offers quick relief for vaginal itching, redness, and burning caused by yeast imbalances or Bacterial Vaginosis.

I prefer this suppository probiotic because it offers a more localized and targeted delivery of good bacteria where I need it most. Suppository probiotics don't come into contact with stomach acid. As such, they deliver more viable bacteria in the vagina than oral probiotics.

Pros

  • It's gluten-free
  • It's Paraben free
  • It's Titanium Dioxide free
  • It's easy to insert

Cons

  • It may contain drying agents as preservatives
  • It's expensive
See Price of HPD Rx Pro-Fem on Amazon

This blend contains two clinically studied probiotic strains with a guaranteed 5 billion colony-forming units for every bottle. A specialist physician formulator formulates this probiotic supplement and has undergone 27 clinical studies that proved it helps prevent Bacterial Vaginosis, uterine tract infections, yeast infections, and vaginal odor. This probiotic begins to work immediately, offering me relief within seven days.

Pros

  • It doesn't require refrigeration
  • It's gluten-free
  • It's soy-free
  • It's non-GMO
  • It's vegetarian

Cons

  • May cause bloating
  • It's highly-priced

What to Look Out for When Buying a Vaginal Probiotic

With thousands of brands in the market promoting vaginal probiotic supplements, it is essential to consider carefully before purchasing one. Bear in mind that scientific research into vaginal probiotics is ongoing, and there are no conclusive clinical findings yet on their viability.

1. Strain Specification

Look for probiotics with lactobacillus strains, the natural bacteria in the vagina. Consider strains such as Lactobacillus Acidophilus, Lactobacillus Rhamnosus, Lactobacillus Reuteri, Ractobacillus Plantarum, Lactobacillus Gasseri, Lactobacillus Crispatus, and others, which are well adapted to the vaginal microbiome. These strains deliver culture to maintain a good balance of bacteria in the vagina.

2. Colony Forming Units (CFU) Count

A colony-forming unit count indicates the number of viable probiotic bacteria in a dose. A dose with a high CFU count is more beneficial as it offers a higher chance of successful colonization of the bacteria in the vagina. Consider brands with CFU counts ranging between 10 million to billions to get the most out of your probiotic intake.

3. Bacteria Survivability and Viability

While most bacterial strains may also offer overall health benefits, it is important to consider how most bacteria can survive stomach acid to reach the vaginal area alive. Consider probiotics that are packed in a delayed-release capsule or pill. You can also consider suppository probiotics that deliver good bacterial strains directly to the vaginal tract.

4. Clinical Research

It's hard to find probiotics that have undergone extensive clinical research and have the medical evidence to prove their efficacy. However, a few have undergone some tests, with most containing bacterial strains proven beneficial in relieving symptoms like itchiness or bad odor. Look for probiotics with documented evidence of efficacy in minimizing the risk of yeast infections and other vaginal pH imbalances.

5. Additional Prebiotics

Prebiotics are natural fibers that act as food for probiotic bacteria. These prebiotics help probiotics grow and establish healthy colony-forming units in the vaginal microbiome. Opt for probiotic supplements with added prebiotics in their formulations to get the best out of your purchase.

6. Purity and Quality

Ensuring your product is free from contamination and manufactured in factories with stringent quality control standards is always advisable. Opt for probiotics that have undergone third-party testing and provide documentation to prove transparency about their production processes. Consider the packaging of your product, as some packages may compromise the probiotic during shipping and storage.

7. Allergen Exposure

Like any other body part, vaginal tissues are sensitive and likely to get irritated by possible allergens in a probiotic. Avoid probiotics that contain or are unclear about common allergens, such as gluten, dairy, soy, fish, and GMO products. Also, avoid probiotics with artificial sweeteners, fillers, preservatives, or fragrances that may cause irritable bowel syndrome or cause other disruptions in your digestive and vaginal health.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What Probiotics Do Gynecologists Recommend?

Gynecologists may differ in brand choices but generally make recommendations based on a probiotic's formulation and effectiveness. Most gynecologists recommend probiotics containing Lactobacillus bacterial strains naturally present in the vagina. They also recommend probiotics with over 1 billion colony-forming units to ensure their effectiveness in your body.

2. What Are the Signs That Vaginal Probiotics Are Working?

You can tell if your probiotics are working if you feel a reduction or relief in the symptoms or discomforts that made you start taking them. Depending on the type of vaginal probiotic you're taking and your health profile, the effects might be subtle and nuanced in the first few days or weeks or immediately noticeable. Look out for signs such as a reduction in itching, vaginal discharge, or bad odor.

3. Should a Woman Take Probiotics Daily?

Yes, probiotics are generally safe for daily intake. Probiotics are health supplements that support your body in maintaining a healthy vaginal and gut microbiome. As such, you can take these supplements daily unless your doctor advises otherwise.

4. Which Strains of Probiotics Are Best for Vaginal Health?

The most effective probiotic strains for vaginal health are those belonging to the Lactobacillus family. Lactobacillus acidophilus, Lactobacillus rhamnosus, Lactobacillus reuteri, and Lactobacillus crispatus are well-known strains that have positively supported vaginal health.

5. How Should You Take Probiotics for Vaginal Health?

Probiotics for vaginal health can be taken orally as supplements or through certain foods, such as yogurt and fermented products. Some probiotic supplements may also come in vaginal suppository or topical cream form, specifically designed to target the vaginal area.

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Clinical Physician Assistant, Summit Health
Jeff brings to Buoy 20 years of clinical experience as a physician assistant in urgent care and internal medicine. He also has extensive experience in healthcare administration, most recently as developer and director of an urgent care center. While completing his doctorate in Health Sciences at A.T. Still University, Jeff studied population health, healthcare systems, and evidence-based medicine....
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