Vaginal Probiotics: How to Choose the Right One for Supporting Your Intimate Flora?*
Are you looking for an effective probiotic to help maintain a healthy vaginal flora? Discover how to support this essential microbiome, which plays a key role in promoting female intimate health.*
What is the Vaginal Microbiome and Why is it Important?*
The vaginal microbiome refers to the community of microorganisms that naturally reside in the vagina. Similar to how the gut microbiota supports digestive health, the vaginal microbiome plays a vital role in maintaining intimate health.
It serves two key functions: helping to protect the vaginal mucosa from external threats by forming a biofilm, and supporting the maintenance of an optimal pH balance (between 3.5 and 4.5).
This essential ecosystem plays a key role in maintaining vaginal health but can sometimes experience imbalances, known as dysbiosis. These imbalances may be influenced by hormonal changes, environmental factors, certain medications, stress, fatigue, or inappropriate intimate hygiene.
Vaginal dysbiosis occurs when particular bacterial strains become dominant, potentially contributing to intimate discomfort or urinary tract challenges.* If imbalances persist, they may lead to significant discomfort and affect overall quality of life, including sexual well-being.
The Beneficial Microorganisms of the Vaginal Flora*
200: that is the approximate number of bacterial species identified in the vaginal microbiota. However, a closer examination reveals that a healthy vaginal microbiota typically features less diversity in bacterial species.*
The majority of a healthy vaginal microbiota—nearly 90%—is composed of lactic bacteria (lactobacilli). This beneficial community is commonly referred to as the Döderlein flora, known for its role in supporting vaginal health and balance.*
While each profile is unique, most women typically have one to four dominant strains, often including Lactobacillus jensenii, Lactobacillus gasseri, Lactobacillus crispatus, and Lactobacillus iners.
Other beneficial lactic acid bacteria include L. acidophilus, L. casei, L. plantarum, L. rhamnosus, and L. salivarius. These strains are also found in other areas of the body, such as the mouth and digestive tract.
The composition of vaginal flora is closely influenced by estrogen levels. As a result, it can vary significantly throughout the menstrual cycle, as well as during pregnancy and menopause.
How to Choose the Right Vaginal Probiotic?*
The purpose of a vaginal probiotic is to support the natural balance of the physiological flora by introducing beneficial microorganisms, helping to maintain a harmonious environment.*
To effectively support vaginal health, focusing on the key lactobacilli strains mentioned above is essential.* Additionally, other lactic bacteria, such as bifidobacteria (commonly used in yogurt fermentation), can adhere to the vaginal wall and complement your microbiotic regimen.*
While selecting the right bacterial strains is essential, ensuring that they can effectively establish themselves in the mucosa is just as important. To support this process, consider a formulation that includes prebiotics—compounds that help nourish and promote the growth of beneficial bacteria.*
Vaginal probiotics can be administered in two ways: through the vaginal route (pessaries) for a more targeted approach, or the traditional oral route (capsules, tablets, etc.) for added convenience. The choice ultimately depends on personal preference.*
Combining 5 well-studied strains of lactic bacteria (Lactobacillus rhamnosus, Bifidobacterium lactis, Lactobacillus salivarius, Lactobacillus acidophilus, and Lactobacillus casei), the oral probiotic Vaginal Health delivers beneficial bacteria that support the vaginal microbiome.* Each capsule provides a potent dose of 5 billion microorganisms. It also includes fructo-oligosaccharides—non-digestible plant-based fibers that help nourish and promote bacterial growth.*
Healthy Habits to Support Your Intimate Flora*
There are several simple steps you can take daily to help maintain a healthy balance in your vaginal flora*:
- Avoid using vaginal douches, as they can disrupt the natural balance of the vaginal microbiome and interfere with the body's natural self-cleansing process.*
- Wash your intimate area once a day with a gentle or superfatted soap.* Avoid using antiseptic soaps, as they can disrupt the balance of beneficial bacteria, and refrain from washing with water alone, as it may affect the skin's natural protective barrier.*
- Avoid smoking, as nicotine may reduce estrogen levels, which are important for maintaining the growth of beneficial lactobacilli.*
- Reduce your intake of sugar.* While the connection between diet and vaginal dysbiosis is not yet fully understood, a diet high in sugar may encourage the growth of yeasts like Candida albicans.*
- Avoid self-medicating with antibiotics.* While antibiotics are sometimes necessary for addressing bacterial infections, they can also disrupt the balance of the vaginal flora.* If you frequently experience urogenital concerns, such as vaginitis or yeast imbalances, consult your doctor for appropriate preventive measures.*
- To prevent excessive moisture and allow your genital area to ‘breathe’, try to sleep without underwear (or at least, wear loose-fitting underwear).*
Also explore our range of supplements for prostate health, supplements for libido support, and supplements for urinary health and comfort.
