Is it safe to use probiotics for vaginal health? Our experts weigh in on the potential benefits and risks
You might have heard of the gut microbiome, but did you know that women also have a vaginal microbiome? In fact, taking probiotics for vaginal health might help to keep conditions such as bacterial vaginosis , thrush or even urinary tract infections at bay.
What is the vaginal microbiome?The vaginal microbiome is the collection of microorganisms that live in the vagina and keep the environment of the vagina acidic. When infections like thrush, UTIs or BV are contracted, these can knock these populations out of whack and change the pH of the vagina, making it more susceptible to further infection. This is because a less acidic environment gives bad bacteria an opportunity to grow.
“However, the composition of the vaginal microbes is only part of the story in maintaining a healthy vaginal environment and is dependent on other factors, such as age and physiological status of the vagina.” Genetics and ethnicity may also play a role. Dr Deborah Lee, a sexual health specialist, says that several common vaginal infections are interrelated. “The vagina of a healthy female of reproductive age, contains a predominance of bacteria called lactobacilli, which as their name suggests, produce lactic acid, as well as hydrogen peroxide, and other antimicrobial peptides that kill other bacteria. The presence of these lactobacilli is crucial for keeping the growth of other organisms under control.
What are the best probiotics for vaginal health?Bajekal encourages avoiding suppositories that claim to help vaginal health as they may be harmful to the vaginal microbiome. “Most over-the-counter supplements and probiotics are unproven for improving vaginal health and should be discouraged. Scientific studies and research in general show no benefit and those studies that show some benefit are weak in strength,” she says.
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