Probiotics are good for digestive health but are these good for vaginal health too? Probiotic supplements are becoming marketed a lot lately. This has made a lot of women believe in their effectiveness for improving vaginal flora(bacteria that live inside the vagina). Women are investing in probiotic pills and capsules that are inserted into the vagina to bring about positive changes. Probiotics are undoubtedly good but you must consult your gynecologist before trying them.. Onlymyhealth reached out to Dr. Bhagya Lakshmi S, Consultant Obstetrics, Gynecologist & Laparoscopic Surgeon, Yashoda Hospitals Hyderabad to understand pros and cons of probiotic supplements for intimate hygiene.
The pH level of vagina is acidic and ranges in between 3.8 to 5.0. The acidic environment provides protection against yeasts, bacteria and other microorganisms that may thrive and cause infections. But not all bacteria are bad, some are necessary for maintaining vaginal health. Dr. Bhagya Lakshmi explains, “Lactobacillus is the main type of bacteria found in the vagina. They’re very important for pH balance as they produce lactic acid. Menstrual blood, semen, douching, antibiotic usage can affect vaginal pH. Bacterial Vaginosis is one of the most common vaginal infections that happens when Lactobacillus bacteria gets replaced by anaerobic bacteria. Vaginal yeast infection, Urinary tract infection (UTI) could also be caused due to pH imbalance.”
Also Read: How To Manage Vaginal Yeast Infections During Monsoons
What are vaginal probiotics?
These supplements carrying living microorganisms are inserted into your vagina for improving vaginal flora. As already mentioned, vagina already has certain good bacteria and microorganisms. Imbalance of these can cause infections and gynecological problems like vaginal yeast infection and bacterial vaginosis. While practicing good intimate and personal hygiene reduces the risk of vaginal problems, some women seek respite through probiotic supplements. These are said to ease discomfort and aid problems over time.
Also Read: 5 Intimate Hygiene Mistakes That You Might Be Committing
Are vaginal probiotics safe?
There is a lack of evidence regarding the effectiveness of probiotics for vaginal health. There are a very few studies done on this topic and the reports are unclear. Some show benefits while some cite possible downsides of using probiotic supplements. In a nutshell, this should be taken as a dose of skepticism.
Expert Advice: Never take anything because it is trending or someone else you know is bragging about it. It is not necessary that something that worked for someone would benefit you too. Vaginal health is a delicate subject and so, you must always consult a gynecologist before using anything.
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