Probiotics have long been used to treat a broad range of gut-related issues like bloating and diarrhea. These beneficial bacteria are naturally present in many fermented foods such as yogurt and yeast products. They are also available as supplements in the form of pills and potions.
Though commonly found in the gastrointestinal linings, the vagina also plays host to millions of these beneficial microorganisms widely referred to as vaginal flora. Read on to uncover the benefits and potential risks associated with the use of vaginal probiotic supplements.
Why do people use vaginal probiotics?
The vagina is home to over 50 different species of bacteria collectively referred to as microbiomes.
While not all of them are beneficial, illness, stress, and consumption of some antibiotics can disrupt the balance of these microbiomes in favor of the harmful bacteria. This can raise the risk of contracting STIs and infections such as thrush.
Women use probiotics to address conditions such as bacterial vaginosis, popularly known as BV, a condition common in females aged 15 to 44. BV arises when the Prevotella bacteria rise in number at the expense of the beneficial lactobacillus bacteria.
Probiotic supplements are also used to treat and prevent Vulvovaginal candidiasis, a condition associated with yeast infections. Finally, probiotics are great for pregnant women since they boost the chances of carrying a pregnancy to term.
Do probiotic supplements benefit vaginal health?
Medical experts believe that consuming probiotics can aid in restoring microbiome balance in favor of healthier vaginal bacteria. These supplements can be administered orally or inserted directly into the vagina.
When administered orally, the biomes navigate their way through the digestive system to reach your vagina, where they fight off and subdue the harmful bacteria. More research is required to understand the effectiveness of probiotics in improving vaginal health.
Risk of using probiotics
Currently, there are no laws regulating the use of probiotics in dietary and vaginal health. Some manufacturers can take advantage of this situation to make false claims about probiotic supplements’ contents and their working efficiency.
Some of the potentially harmful side effects of probiotics include undisclosed ingredients that could expose users to vaginal infections and excessive doses in probiotic production, leading to diarrhea and flatulence.
It is advisable to research thoroughly before purchasing any vaginal probiotics. Consider reputable places like Probulin for the best probiotic for vaginal health for maximum benefit.
Most of the time, your vagina has a way of naturally balancing the microbiomes without needing any medical help.
However, illness and lifestyle choices can affect the vagina’s ability to subdue harmful bacteria. Growing evidence shows that probiotic supplements can benefit persons ailing from vaginal infections such as thrush and bacterial vaginosis.
They are also helpful for people on medication since some antibiotics are known to disrupt microbiome balance. Practicing safe sex and regularly changing your tampons are other ways that can significantly improve vaginal health. You can find out more information on probiotic supplements’ benefits and the potential risks in vaginal health by doing a simple online search.
