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What are Vaginal Probiotics?

Alicia Sparks
Alicia Sparks

Probiotics are a kind of “good” bacteria normally already present in a person’s digestive tract and, for women, in the vagina. Probiotics fight against the overgrowth of bad bacteria. Vaginal probiotics, specifically, prevent the overgrowth of candida that’s responsible for yeast infections. Most vaginal probiotics do this with a good bacteria called lactobacillus. Women can purchase vaginal probiotics without prescriptions, but because probiotics shouldn’t be used if certain health conditions are present and recurring yeast infections can be signs of more serious health problems, they should first talk with their doctors.

There are various types and sources of probiotics, but the most common types of vaginal probiotics are oral supplements and vaginal suppositories. The way, and exact purpose for which, a woman uses these products depends on the product itself and the included instructions. For example, oral probiotic supplements are usually designed to be taken daily to help in preventing yeast infections. Some oral supplements might be designed to be taken several times a day for a certain number of days to alleviate the symptoms of and treat yeast infections. On the other hand, vaginal suppositories are usually intended to be inserted in the vagina for a certain number of days for the sole purpose of curing or alleviating the symptoms of a current yeast infection.

Vaginal suppositories are among the most types of vaginal probiotics.
Vaginal suppositories are among the most types of vaginal probiotics.

Vaginal probiotics don’t require prescriptions. Women can find over-the-counter vaginal probiotics at most drug stores, health and wellness stores, and even in the pharmaceutical sections of grocery stores. Many companies sell these types of probiotics online via websites, and some health chains even sell the probiotics through catalogs or over the telephone. The price of daily probiotic supplements designed for preventing yeast infections is usually similar to the cost of any other bottle of supplements. The cost of vaginal probiotics for relieving symptoms and treating current yeast infections is comparable, and sometimes less expensive, than traditional yeast infection treatments.

It's a good idea for women to speak with their doctors prior to using probiotic supplements.
It's a good idea for women to speak with their doctors prior to using probiotic supplements.

Even though vaginal probiotics are available without a prescription, it’s a good idea for women to talk with their doctors before they start using probiotic supplements. Many health care professionals advise people who have existing damage in their intestines or an overgrowth of bacteria in their intestines to avoid using probiotics. Probiotics are also not recommended for people with weakened immune systems. It’s especially important for a woman who hopes to find relief from frequent yeast infections by using probiotics to talk with her doctor. Frequent yeast infections could be a symptom of an underlying, more serious health concern.

Discussion Comments

burcinc

My yeast infection cleared up within a few weeks of starting vaginal probiotics. I struggled with yeast infections for two years before I finally decided to try these supplements.

One reason I didn't buy them right away was because I didn't think the healthy bacteria in the supplements would reach my vaginal area when I'm taking them orally. But apparently, these supplements are made to withstand the digestive system and they do end up in the vagina.

Obviously, not every vaginal probiotic product is equal. I did some research before I decided on a good brand that got very good reviews. I recommend doing the same for anyone else in need of it.

candyquilt

@SarahGen-- I've heard about this home remedy too but it's not a good idea because the cultures in yogurt are not all naturally found in the vagina. So it might cause a different type of bacterial infection.

It's much better to take a good vaginal probiotic supplement regularly.

I believe that there are also probiotic suppositories that the doctor can apply to rebalance the flora of the vagina. These are safe and effective but has to be done by a medical professional. You should ask your doctor about this.

SarahGen

I've heard of women treating their yeast infections by applying yogurt on the outside of their vagina. I know that yogurt has probiotic cultures, but is this safe to do?

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    • Vaginal suppositories are among the most types of vaginal probiotics.
      By: Magalice
      Vaginal suppositories are among the most types of vaginal probiotics.
    • It's a good idea for women to speak with their doctors prior to using probiotic supplements.
      By: Andres Rodriguez
      It's a good idea for women to speak with their doctors prior to using probiotic supplements.
    • Some forms of vaginal probiotics may be inserted into the vagina.
      By: isyste
      Some forms of vaginal probiotics may be inserted into the vagina.
    • Daily probiotic supplements can be taken to prevent yeast infections.
      By: chaoss
      Daily probiotic supplements can be taken to prevent yeast infections.
    • Women with diabetes are prone to yeast infections.
      By: brankatekic
      Women with diabetes are prone to yeast infections.
    • Yogurt -- which contains acidophilus -- may help treat a yeast infection.
      By: nenetus
      Yogurt -- which contains acidophilus -- may help treat a yeast infection.
    • Probiotics are bacteria that are viewed as beneficial to digestive health.
      By: Jeffrey Collingwood
      Probiotics are bacteria that are viewed as beneficial to digestive health.
    • An allergic reaction to laundry detergent may cause recurring external yeast infections.
      By: ptnphotof
      An allergic reaction to laundry detergent may cause recurring external yeast infections.