Restoring balance to your vaginal ecosystem through 5 beneficial probiotic strains
A new study suggests that taking probiotics containing certain strains of Lactobacillus could improve treatment and reduce relapses for women prone to bacterial vaginosis (BV) infections.
Researchers from the University of Cape Town discovered that certain Lactobacillus strains could make women more resilient to BV infections. The five Lactobacillus strains with the most potential for the treatment and prevention of BV are L. crispatus, L. gasseri, L. jensenii, L. vaginalis, and L. mucosae.
These strains have a more positive impact on vaginal pH, have more antimicrobial properties, and are less likely to be killed by antibiotics.
Lactobacillus crispatus, Lactobacillus rhamnosus GR-1, and Lactobacillus acidophilus stand out as leading strains with documented antimicrobial activity against the pathogens involved in BV. L. crispatus is a key vaginal microbiota member known for its strong antimicrobial activity through production of lactic acid, hydrogen peroxide, and bacteriocins that maintain acidic vaginal pH and inhibit pathogen growth. L. rhamnosus GR-1 and L. acidophilus are known for balancing vaginal flora and enhancing immune defenses.
A 2009 study found that taking Lactobacillus tablets helped women recover from BV quicker and reduced the intensity of symptoms. L. crispatus supplements have also been shown to restore the vaginal microbiome after BV and inhibit harmful bacteria and yeast, safe in pregnancy.
The use of probiotics containing these strains could be a promising approach to managing BV, especially for women who experience recurrent infections. However, more research is needed to confirm their effectiveness and safety in different populations.
It's also important to note that maintaining good vaginal health involves more than just taking probiotics. Wearing white cotton underwear (no dyes) and avoiding tight jeans are time-tested tips for a healthy vagina. Douching can disrupt the natural microbiome of the vagina, leaving it vulnerable to infection.
Dietary sugar feeds the yeast and other bad bacteria in the vagina, so it's best to limit your intake of sugary foods and drinks. Low estrogen can also affect vaginal health, causing vaginal dryness and affecting vaginal pH. Your doctor might recommend a topical estrogen cream, especially if you are perimenopausal or menopausal.
Probiotics with top-performing Lactobacillus strains may improve vaginal health (Source: MedicalXpress). However, always consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement regimen.
References:
- L. crispatus shows conserved bacteriocins essential for microbial competition in vaginal health[1].
- L. rhamnosus GR-1 and L. acidophilus promote vaginal flora balance, acidification, and immune defense[2].
- L. crispatus supplements restore vaginal microbiome after BV and inhibit harmful bacteria and yeast, safe in pregnancy[3].
- Combined oral probiotics L. rhamnosus GR-1 and L. reuteri RC-14 improve antimicrobial treatments; immune modulation also plays a key role[4].
- These strains have a more positive impact on vaginal pH, have more antimicrobial properties, and are less likely to be killed by antibiotics[5].
- A 2014 study found that taking Lactobacillus probiotics can reduce the recurrence of bacterial vaginosis[6].
- Bacterial vaginosis is more common during reproductive years[7].
- The five Lactobacillus strains with the most potential for the treatment and prevention of bacterial vaginosis are L. crispatus, L. gasseri, L. jensenii, L. vaginalis, and L. mucosae[8].
- The researchers from the University of Cape Town found that certain Lactobacillus strains have more potential for treating and preventing bacterial vaginosis than the strains found in the probiotics being sold for vaginal health[9].
- The science behind wellness reveals that certain strains of Lactobacillus, such as L. crispatus, could significantly improve treatment and lessen relapses for women vulnerable to bacterial vaginosis (BV) infections.
- In the realm of health-and-wellness, these Lactobacillus strains, specifically L. crispatus, L. gasseri, L. jensenii, L. vaginalis, and L. mucosae, display a more positive impact on vaginal pH and possess stronger antimicrobial properties.
- Fitness-and-exercise isn't the only area where science plays a crucial role; dietary supplements like probiotics containing these effective strains could potentially manage BV, particularly for women experiencing recurrent infections.
- Mental-health is about more than just managing stress or depression; maintaining skin-care and nutrition for overall health is equally essential.
- A nutritious, healthy-diet, low in sugar and rich in essential nutrients, supports a balanced vaginal ecosystem.
- Women's-health involves understanding the complexities of the female body, including the importance of a healthy vaginal microbiome.
- Just like recipe creation requires skill and understanding of global-cuisines, cooking for vaginal health involves making dietary choices that promote a healthy microbiome.
- Lifestyle choices, such as maintaining good hygiene practices, wearing white cotton underwear, and avoiding douching, also contribute to a healthy vagina.
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- Probiotics with top-performing Lactobacillus strains may help maintain a healthy vagina (Source: MedicalXpress), but it's important to consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement regimen.
- Consulting with a family member or friend about potential supplements or lifestyle changes can be beneficial when making personal-growth decisions.
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