When it comes to digestive health, foods rich in probiotics are often considered beneficial. Probiotics are live bacteria and yeasts that are good for your health, especially your digestive system. They can be found in fermented foods, such as yoghurt, cheese, kefir, and kimchi, and are also available as supplements. But while probiotics help with digestion, did you know they can also improve vaginal health?
To understand the same, the OnlyMyHealth team spoke to Dr Sushma Tomar, Consultant—Obstetrician and Gynaecologist, Fortis Hospital, Kalyan, who shared some useful insights into the interesting connection.
Role Of Probiotics
“Probiotics are live microorganisms that live in our body, in the bowel and vagina. These are healthy microorganisms that help prevent infection, increase immunity, decrease pain and inflammation, and keep the vagina healthy,” said Dr Tomar.
According to a 2022 study published in the journal Cureus, probiotics play a crucial role in gut health and may help prevent and manage various diseases. Research shows that probiotics can support immune function, combat harmful microbes, and improve digestion. They have been linked to the prevention and treatment of digestive infections, Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), lactose intolerance, allergies, and even certain cancers.
Additionally, probiotics may reduce antibiotic side effects and benefit oral health by preventing dental caries, gum disease, and bad breath. While clinical studies suggest their effectiveness in treating these conditions, further research is needed to confirm their full potential in medical use.
How Probiotics Support Vaginal Health?
According to Dr Tomar, probiotics also support vaginal health by increasing immunity. "They act as a beneficial adjunctive treatment for treating vaginal infections and also help reduce pain and inflammation in cases of bacterial and fungal infections," he added.
A 2012 study published in the journal Archives of Gynecology and Obstetrics found that a bee-honey and yoghurt mixture had a higher clinical cure rate than antifungal treatment in 129 pregnant women with vulvovaginal candidiasis, though antifungals had a better mycological cure rate. Researchers found that both were well tolerated, with mild side effects in 24.3% and 29.7% of patients, respectively.
The same was established in a 2015 study involving 70 non-pregnant women with vulvovaginal candidiasis.
As per Dr Tomar, the best probiotic strains for vaginal infections are:
- Lactobacillus Acidophilus
- Lacticaseibacillus rhamnosus
- Lactobacillus Reuteri
- Lactobacillus Bifidus
Also Read: Bloating Is Common In People With Ulcerative Colitis: Expert Explains Its Causes And Management Tips
Should Probiotics Be Taken Regularly?
Dr Tomar suggested that probiotics are not like vitamin tablets that have to be taken daily. It should be taken after consulting with a doctor in doses as per their recommendations.
The doctor also added that probiotics are live microorganisms, and since they are already present in our body, there is no risk or side effects of taking probiotics for vaginal health.
Conclusion
In addition to promoting gut health, probiotics can also help maintain vaginal health by supporting immunity, preventing infections, and reducing inflammation. Research suggests that probiotic strains like Lactobacillus acidophilus and Lacticaseibacillus rhamnosus can aid in managing vaginal infections and improving overall vaginal flora. While probiotics offer multiple health benefits, they should be taken under medical guidance to ensure the right dosage and effectiveness. Including probiotic-rich foods like yoghurt and kefir into your diet can be a natural way to support both gut and vaginal health.