Do All Probiotics Help With BV or Yeast Infection?

People may use vaginal probiotics to address two main issues: bacterial vaginosis and yeast infection.

Bacterial vaginosis (BV)

BV is the most common imbalance problem. In the vaginal canals of women with BV, there are many different species of bacteria. In comparison, there are fewer species of bacteria in the vaginal area of healthy women.

The pH of the vagina rises above four and a half because of the increased bacteria. This lowers the number of Lactobacillus in the vaginal area. Women with BV frequently suffer the following symptoms in addition to an elevated vaginal pH:

• Burning sensation while urinating
• Fishy odor
• Itching
• Milky or gray vaginal discharge

The exact cause of BV is not known although some variables appear to increase the risk of some women, such as:

• Douching or cleaning the vagina with soap and water (the vagina cleanses itself and douching can disrupt its natural balance)
• Multiple sexual partners or a new sexual partner
• Natural shortage of Lactobacillus bacteria (some women do not have enough beneficial bacteria in their vaginal environment, which can contribute to BV)

Antibiotics are commonly used in the treatment of BV. These can be taken orally or used in the form of a vaginal gel. Some doctors may recommend a probiotic in addition to antibiotics but not in place of them.

Yeast infection

Another problem is a yeast infection. The fungus, Candida albicans, is the most common cause of yeast vaginitis.

Fungus growth is usually slowed by the presence of beneficial bacteria. However, an imbalance of vaginal flora, especially a lack of Lactobacillus, might allow the fungus to develop uncontrollably inside the vagina.

The severity of a yeast infection can range from minor to severe, with signs and symptoms that include:

• Irritation or a burning feeling during sex or urination
• A thick white or watery discharge
• Itching in the vagina and vulva
• Ache and discomfort
• Rash on the vaginal area

The excess of yeast that leads to a yeast infection can be caused by a variety of factors, such as:

• Medications, which can kill the healthy bacteria in the vaginal environment
• Uncontrolled diabetes
• A weakened immune system
• Using oral contraceptives or other hormone therapy that raises estrogen levels

A short course of antifungal treatment can usually cure most yeast infections.

Some researchers believe that consuming probiotics can help restore a healthier bacterial balance in the vaginal area. In theory and some lab studies, this works.

However, what works in the laboratory may not always function in the real body. It might not be as straightforward as taking a pill or suppository containing beneficial microorganisms.

There is currently no evidence that these substances benefit vaginal health. This could change as scientists gain more knowledge. However, antibiotics and antifungal medications are currently the only treatments for vaginal bacterial and yeast infections that have been proven to be effective.

Probiotics sold as dietary supplements are not regulated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Their labels may make promises about what is in them and how they operate, but they may not be entirely accurate. So, it is best to be cautious.

More research is needed to determine how safe probiotics are. However, scientists believe they may have some negative consequences, such as:

• Infections
• Ingredients that are not stated on the label could be harmful to health
• Probiotic microbes produce potentially harmful chemicals

If a person has a major sickness or a poor immune system, they are more likely to experience negative side effects. It is better to steer clear of such probiotics.