I always thought that probiotics were just good for your gut but I was so wrong. As probiotics have become increasingly popular, I learned that there are so many benefits from taking probiotics. Probiotics help maintain a healthy immune system and decrease inflammation in your body, including the vagina.
Probiotics contain live micro-organisms called Lactobacillus that can specifically benefit women. Like your gut, the vagina contains normal bacteria that fights against the overgrowth of harmful organisms in the urogenital system that help combat urinary tract infections, bacterial vaginosis and yeast infections.
Bacterial vaginosis or BV is the most common vaginal infection women experience. It is caused by the overgrowth of Gardnerella vaginalis or Prevotella. Typical symptoms include thin grayish discharge with a fishy odor. Yeast infections typically present with itching, vaginal irritation and sometimes a thick white discharge caused by an imbalance of fungus known as Candida.
Taking probiotics that contain Lactobacillus restore and maintain a normal urogenital flora. Studies show that taking probiotics daily resulted in the cure of BV, reduced the recurrence of BV and/or caused an increase in vaginal lactobacilli and restored normal vaginal flora. This is great for patients that have recurrent or resistant vaginal infections due to bacterial vaginosis and yeast.
Incorporating probiotics into your routine is a great way for continued well being from head to toe.
Other benefits of probiotics include improved digestion and decreased gas, bloating and constipation. They help with skin issues such as acne, rosacea and eczema, reduce the frequency of urinary tract infections and have been shown to improve heart health, cholesterol and diabetes. Make sure to take the probiotics with or 30 minutes before a meal and remember that it may take a couple of weeks before you see the benefits.
With love,
Dr. Jodie Horton