Probiotics for Vaginal Health

Lactobacillus acidophilus naturally occurs in the vaginal canal. Various strains of Lactobacillus bacteria have been studied for their potential benefits to the health of the epithelial cells of the vaginal canal, as well as their potential to help reduce the risk of baterial vaginosis. Cellular studies have found that consuming L. acidophilus may increase the presence of anti-inflammatory signaling molecules and decrease the presence of pro-inflammatory signaling molecules.

Lactobacillus crispatus is one of the most commonly found bacteria in the vaginal canal. L. crispatus may be most helpful for its potential impact on the vaginal epithelial cells, which are skin-like surface cells. Studies have found that higher levels of L. crispatus may be associated with less stress in the vaginal epithelial cells and better healing of damaged epithelial cells. One study found that L. crispatus may help reduce the ability for candida to adhere to epithelial cells, potentially through an increase in regulatory T-helper molecules and the Th1 cytokine response, both beneficial inflammatory responses by the immune system to foreign invaders.

Lactobacillus fermentum is a bacterial strain normally found in the vaginal canal. The benefits of L. fermentum for vaginal health are likely through its impact on the epithelial cells, which are skin-like, surface cells in the vagina. L. fermentum may impact the adhesion of harmful microbes to the vaginal wall.

Lactobacillus rhamnosus is a probiotic that’s been widely studied for its potential health benefits. As a bacteria that colonizes the vaginal canal, studies have investigated whether L. rhamnosus may help reduce the risk of urinary tract infections. L. rhamnosus may be beneficial by changing the amount of reactive oxygen species like nitric oxide, which impacts blood supply to tissues. Other studies have shown that L. rhamnosus may reduce diarrhea and abdominal stress in individuals taking antibiotics.

Lactobacillus plantarum is a probiotic strain commonly found in fermented foods like sourdough and kimchi. L. plantarum is a hardy bacterial strain that has been shown to successfully transit through the digestive system without getting destroyed by the high-acid environment of the stomach. L. plantarum may specifically aid in the health of the vagina by adhering to the epithelial cell wall and supporting its functional integrity. Research suggests this adherence may result in lower chances of infection from external pathogens.

Lactobacillus reuteri is a probiotic that has been widely studied for its potential health benefits. L. reuteri normally colonizes the vaginal canal and is an important addition to this blend of strains because it is particularly resistant to changes in acidity. Studies have suggested that L. reuteri may provide many health benefits due to its potential to produce antimicrobial and antiviral compounds.