The lactobacilli naturally make up the vast majority of the vaginal flora (about 90%), as described in this review. They mainly contribute to the production of lactic acid. This helps maintain a slightly acidic vaginal pH, creating an environment hostile to the proliferation of pathogens.
Another action: they prevent adhesion to the vaginal mucosa and form a physical barrier.
The probiotics used for maintaining good vaginal health are therefore derived from this family of microorganisms.
However, I must note: there are not yet any authorized claims for the prevention of gynecological infections.
As this scientific review from 2023 that I found shows, scientific studies are not all unanimous on the effectiveness of probiotic strains. The research is too heterogeneous to claim definite benefits.
Five of these strains have nevertheless shown particularly positive and promising effects.
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1. Lactobacillus rhamnosus
I recommend this strain for its preventive benefits against candidiasis and bacterial vaginitis.
The lactobacillus adheres to vaginal and cervical cells and prevents the growth of pathogens, as shown by this study in vitro.
2. Lactobacillus reuteri
According to this scientific review I found, this strain has shown beneficial effects in preventing vaginal infections.
It has nevertheless been mostly studied in combination with Lactobacillus rhamnosus or acidophilus. As a result, it is difficult to evaluate its effect alone.
In pharmacies, you will generally find it combined with other strains.
3. Lactobacillus crispatus
For vaginal health, I also consider this strain. It has shown very promising results against bacterial vaginosis and vaginal Candida infections in this double-blind clinical study.
4. Lactobacillus acidophilus
This probiotic strain has shown positive in vitro effects against Gardnerella infections in this study, as well as against other pathogens that can affect urogenital health, according to this other research I found.
5. Lactobacillus plantarum
A 2018 in vitro study notably suggests its positive impact against urinary tract infections and mentions its potential to fight recurrences of vulvovaginal candidiasis.
Where can you find these strains that support vaginal health?
These probiotic strains from the Lactobacillus family can be found in dietary supplements specialized for women’s health. But also in vaginal suppositories to be inserted locally.
At the same time, I advise you to enrich your diet with natural probiotics. Add sauerkraut, yogurts and other fermented dairy products containing probiotic strains, including Lactobacillus rhamnosus and Lactobacillus reuteri.
The best part? They are not only good for the vaginal area. They can also be beneficial for the health of your intestines.
What is the link between the health of the vaginal flora and probiotics?
Döderlein’s flora
To keep us healthy and prevent the proliferation of pathogenic microorganisms, the vagina can rely on its microbiota: the Döderlein flora. Far from prejudices, these commensal bacteria are not necessarily harmful to the body; on the contrary!
Composed largely of lactobacilli, the microorganisms that line the vaginal wall maintain a good balance. They are supported by those found in the gut microbiota.
A fragile balance
However, this balance can be disturbed. Stress, an unbalanced diet, hygiene that is too harsh for the mucous membranes, hormonal changes, drug treatments and other factors can cause intestinal and vaginal dysbiosis. The two microbiotas are closely linked.
However, if your vaginal flora is imbalanced, gynecological infections may occur. I am thinking in particular of:
- candidiasis
- vaginitis
- cystitis
But also irritations and itching, dryness, unpleasant odors, and a disruption of the menstrual cycle.
To prevent the onset of these discomforts, preserve or restore the flora. I recommend courses of probiotic supplements, but above all a healthy lifestyle, a balanced diet, and better stress management when needed.
Sources and scientific studies
Saraf VS, Sheikh SA, Ahmad A, 2021, Vaginal microbiome: normalcy vs dysbiosis. Arch Microbiol.
Barrientos-Durán A, Fuentes-López A, de Salazar A, 2020, Inclusion of Nutrition and Probiotic Factors in the Maintenance of Eubiosis.
Liu P, Lu Y, Li R, Chen X, 2023, Use of probiotic lactobacilli in the treatment of vaginal infections: In vitro and in vivo investigations.
Coudeyras S, Jugie G, Vermerie M, Forestier C, 2008, Adhesion of human probiotic Lactobacillus rhamnosus to cervical and vaginal cells and interaction with vaginosis-associated pathogens.
Chee WJY, Chew SY, Than LTL, 2020, Vaginal microbiota and the potential of Lactobacillus derivatives in maintaining vaginal health.
Mändar R, Sõerunurk G, Štšepetova J, Smidt I, 2023, Impact of Lactobacillus crispatus-containing oral and vaginal probiotics on vaginal health: a randomized double-blind placebo controlled clinical trial.
Aroutcheva AA, Simoes JA, Faro S, 2001, Antimicrobial protein produced by vaginal Lactobacillus acidophilus that inhibits Gardnerella vaginalis.
Gregor Reid, 2000, In vitro testing of Lactobacillus acidophilus NCFMTM as a possible probiotic for the urogenital tract.
Kang CH, Kim Y, Han SH, Kim JS, Paek NS, So JS, 2018, In vitro probiotic properties of vaginal Lactobacillus fermentum MG901 and Lactobacillus plantarum MG989 against Candida albicans.
