Gynaecological probiotic: vaginal or oral [+ranking].

Itching, burning and uncomfortable discharge. This is nothing to be ashamed of. Intimate infections affect more than ¾ of women. But there is something that can help you. Gynaecological probiotics.

Living cultures of bacteria can also be delivered to the genitourinary tract. And there, these little protectors can help crack down on any uninvited guests - fungus, streptococcus and pathogenic bacteria.

They can also help you to get rid of any uninvited guests.

Although the results of the study are not conclusive, they are encouraging. That is why, together with Ilona Krzak, M.Sc. in Pharmacy, we will tell you which preparations will be best for your ailments.

The results of the tests are inconclusive.

See also:

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• What is a probiotic
• What is a prebiotic
• What is a synbiotic
• What is a psychobiotic
• What is sodium butyrate
• What is butyric acid
• The best probiotic
• Probiotics during pregnancy and lactation

Gynaecological probiotics vs regular probiotics - what's the difference?

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Probiotics are usually spoken of in the context of replenishing the gut flora. But as it happens, beneficial bacteria live in other parts of your body too. You will find them on your skin and in your vagina, for example.

Probiotics are such invisible to the eye watchdogs that take care of the balance in your body. They maintain the right pH in the vagina - between 3.6 and 4.5. When this is too high, it promotes the development of fungal and bacterial infections.

And, as befits true protectors, they protect you from pathogens, i.e. harmful microorganisms that can lead to various diseases. Probiotic bacteria, such as Lactobacillus, act as a barrier that does not allow harmful microbes to grow. They take away uninvited guests space and food and produce substances that kill them.

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Additionally, these 'good bacteria' can support your immunity. They work with your immune system, teaching it how to respond effectively to a variety of threats.

If you've read anything about probiotics, you may be under the impression that the role that bacteria play in the vagina is basically similar to the one they play in the gut. And... it's true.

What is the difference between a gynaecological probiotic and a "regular" probiotic?  Basically two things: the species of probiotic bacteria strains and the method of administration.

For gynaecological probiotics, you can buy vaginal or oral preparations. Ordinary intestinal probiotics you will only encounter in the latter form.

The main difference, however, lies in the content of the types of probiotic bacteria strains. Not all of them will be able to survive the acidic environment of the vagina and know how to work to your benefit.

The main difference is in the strains of probiotics.

What strains to look for?

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The properties of probiotics vary not only within their species, but also within individual strains. This is why the composition of probiotics should always include a three-part designation of the bacteria contained, i.e. genus, species and specific strain - e.g. Bifidobacterium breve BR03.

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Research indicates that lactic acid bacilli, or Lactobacillus, play the most important role in the context of reproductive tract health, maintenance of normal pH and defence against pathogens.

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Genres of probiotic bacteria that predominate in the vaginaand:

• Lactobacillus crispatus,
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• Lactobacillus gasseri,
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• Lactobacillus jensenii,
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• Lactobacillus iners,
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There's more. The vaginal environment is home to around 50 more types of beneficial microorganismsand. Although there are fewer of these than those listed above, the following may also be importantand:

• Lactobacillus acidophilus,
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• Lactobacillus fermentum,
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• Lactobacillus plantarum,
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• Lactobacillus brevis,
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• Lactobacillus casei,
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• Lactobacillus pochwylis,
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• Lactobacillus delbrueckii,
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• Lactobacillus salivarius,
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• Lactobacillus reuteri,
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• Lactobacillus rhamnosus.
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Best gynaecological probiotics - ranking

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These 6 best gynaecological probiotics:

• Lakcid Intima,
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• IBSS biomed InVag,
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• IBSS biomed Lactovaginal,
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• LaciBios femina,
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• Solinea Intifem,
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• IBSS biomed PROVAG,
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Best vaginal probiotics:

• Lakcid Intima,
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• IBSS biomed InVag,
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• IBSS biomed Lactovaginal,
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Lakcid Intima

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Rating: 5.0

• Active ingredients: Lactobacillus gasseri DSM14869, Lactobacillus rhamnosus DSM14870
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• Form: vaginal capsules
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• Packaging: 10 capsules
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• Sufficient for: 10 days
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Product description:

Lakcid Intima is a vaginal capsule that contains two strains of lactic acid bacteria: Lactobacillus gasseri and Lactobacillus rhamnosus. These are capable of producing lactic acid. In addition, the Lactobacillus gasseri strain DSM 14869 produces hydrogen peroxide, which creates an environment that is unfavourable for the growth of pathogenic bacteria. Thus, by using Lakcid Intima, you can effectively maintain the physiological bacterial flora of the vagina.

Pluses and minuses:

Additional information:

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Preparation intended for women over 18 years of age. Store it at room temperature, in a dry and shaded place.

Preparation.

IBSS biomed InVag

Rating: 4.9

• Active ingredients: Lactobacillus fermentum 57A, Lactobacillus plantarum 57B, Lactobacillus gasseri 57C
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• Form: vaginal capsules
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• Packaging: 7 capsules
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• Sufficient for: 7 days
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Product description:

This medicinal product contains lactic acid bacteria, which are key to maintaining a healthy vaginal pH. Thanks to them, InVag helps to restore the right acidity, which is essential for optimal intimate health.

The bacteria in InVag are the most important bacteria in the vagina.

The bacteria in the formulation have the ability to colonise the vaginal epithelium, which further strengthens your body's natural defence barrier.

Pluses and minuses:

Additional information:

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Preparation should be stored in the refrigerator.

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IBSS biomed Lactovaginal

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Rating: 4.7

• Active ingredients: Lactobacillus rhamnosus 573
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• Form: vaginal capsules
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• Packaging: 10 capsules
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• Sufficient for: 5-10 days
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Product description:

Lactovaginal is a medicine that will help you restore the natural bacterial flora of the vagina. It is particularly recommended as a prophylactic agent, but also as a support in the treatment of intimate infections.

Lactovaginal is a product for the treatment of intimate infections.

The preparation is recommended when being treated with antibacterial, antifungal or anti-fungal medications. It can also be used in the presence of discharge.

Preparation.

The key ingredient in this product is the bacteria Lactobacillus rhamnosus 573, which produces lactic acid. This acid maintains the optimal vaginal pH, protecting you from the growth of pathogenic bacteria.

Lactobacillus rhamnosus 573 is the key ingredient in this product.

Pluses and minuses:

Additional information:

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Preparation should be stored in the refrigerator. The manufacturer recommends the use of 1 or 2 capsules per day (morning and evening).

Additional information.

Best oral gynaecological probiotics:

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• LaciBios femina,
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• Solinea Intifem,
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• IBSS biomed PROVAG,
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LaciBios femina

Rating: 5.0

Badge: Editor's choice

• Active ingredients: Lactobacillus rhamnosus GR-1, Lactobacillus reuteri RC-14
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• Formula: oral capsules
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• Packaging: 20 capsules
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• Sufficient for: 20 days
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Product description:

Convenient to use, oral gynaecological probiotic containing two of the best studied strains of lactic acid bacteria. The micro-organisms contained in the LaciBios formulation show a broad spectrum of action on the vaginal environment, regulating its pH and helping to combat pathogens. The two bacterial species work perfectly together and complement each other.

Pluses and minuses:

Additional information:

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You can store this probiotic at room temperature for a fortnight.

Solinea Intifem

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Rating: 4.9

• Active ingredients: Lactobacillus acidophilus PBS066, Lactobacillus fermentum PBS073, Lactobacillus gasseri LG050, Lactobacillus rhamnosus LRH020, Lactobacillus plantarum PBS067
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• Form: oral capsules
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• Packaging: 10 capsules
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• Sufficient for: 10 days
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Product description:

Intifem is a dietary supplement that will perfectly complement your daily diet by providing you with essential lactic acid bacteria. Each capsule of this supplement contains five different strains of lactic acid bacteria.

This dietary supplement is particularly recommended for people who are undergoing or have completed treatment with antibiotics, antifungal and antiprotozoal drugs. It can also be used as support for urogenital tract infections. Intifem can also be helpful for endocrine disorders such as the peri-menopausal period, during contraceptive use, during and after menstruation, and after genitourinary surgery.

Pluses and minuses:

Additional information:

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Store the product at room temperature and protect it from light and moisture.

IBSS biomed PROVAG

Rating: 4.9

• Active ingredients: Lactobacillus gasseri 57C, Lactobacillus fermentum 57A, Lactobacillus plantarum 57B
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• Form: oral capsules
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• Packaging: 40 capsules
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• Sufficient for: 40 days
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Product description:

PROVAG® contains three Polish strains of probiotic bacteria with beneficial properties for the intestinal microflora and reproductive tract, which is particularly important for women and girls. The product is an excellent dietary supplement, especially during and after antibiotic therapy. With PROVAG®, you can enjoy good health and well-being.

Pluses and minuses:

Additional information:

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You can store the product at room temperature for 4 weeks. If you want to keep it longer, store it in the fridge.

Additional information:

Product can be stored at room temperature.

See also:

• When to take a probiotic?
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• When are probiotics harmful?
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• Which probiotic for the gut to choose?
• Which probiotic will work for IBS?
• Will a probiotic help with weight loss?

Vaginal or oral probiotic - which to choose?

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If you want your gynaecological probiotic to work, it is essential that it gets to where it is needed. The most obvious solution therefore seems to be the use of vaginal preparts.

Many experts note that administering a probiotic vaginally reduces treatment time and ensures that more bacteria survive, because they don't have to endure the journey through the digestive system. It certainly makes sense. And yet...

The 2021 study looked at how a probiotic would deal with a vaginal bacterial infection. The participants were divided into three groups: A, B and C. Groups A and B were given Lacticaseibacillus rhamnosus TOM 22.8, but the former in vaginal form and the latter in oral form. In the third group (C), a 'wait and see' strategy was used and.

Results were checked after 10 and 30 days. In both groups taking the probiotic (regardless of the form of administration), significant improvements were noted, which included a return to balance of the vaginal bacterial flora, a reduction in pathogens and a reduction in itching and burning symptoms. In the third group, who were only asked to observe their bodies, a worsening of the condition was notedand.

Scientists have indicated that orally administered probiotics can pass from the rectum into the vagina. Interestingly, although this can sometimes prolong the duration of therapy, this route may have its advantages. Orally administered probiotics could reduce the transmission of pathological yeast and bacteria via the same pathway, thereby reducing the risk of recurrent intimate infectionsand.

Gynaecological probiotics - what do they help with?

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The use of probiotics in gynaecology mainly involves the treatment of bacterial and fungal infections, as well as urinary tract infections. It is worth mentioning here that, in light of current research, it has been suggested that probiotic bacteria may improve the condition of patients at the time of treatment and shortly thereafterand.

However, it has not been possible to demonstrate a long-term beneficial effect of gynaecological probiotics on the genitourinary system. After they are discontinued, the positive effects usually continue for about a month .

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Rebuilding vaginal bacterial flora

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Some medical conditions, lifestyle changes or antibiotic therapies can lead to depletion of the vaginal bacterial flora. To rebuild it, you can reach for probiotics such as Lakcid Intima, Intifem or LaciBios femina. Changing your diet to one rich in fibre - i.e. vegetables, fruit and whole grains - can also help.

Lactic acid bacteria produce... lactic acid (yes, that was unsurprising), which provides the right acidity for the reproductive tract environment - and one that pathogenic microbes don't likeand.

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Probiotics also make it difficult for pathogens to adhere to the mucosa, which can be important in preventing urinary tract infections. They are also able to produce metabolites that destroy unfavourable bacteria and fungiand.

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Probiotic for intimate infections

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Bacterial vaginal infections are some of the most common ailments with which we visit the gynaecologist. It is estimated that this ailment affects 30-50% of womenand.

Bacterial vaginitis is caused by a disruption of the microflora. This is when there is a decrease in Lactobacillus bacteria and an increase in those pathogenic, anaerobic bacteria - especially from the species Gardnerella and Prevotella . The standard treatment for this ailment is antibiotics, but the recurrence rate is quite highand.

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A review of 30 studies conducted in 2020 found that the use of specific strains of probiotic bacteria can reduce pathogens, restore the biological balance of the vagina and further maintain vaginal stability, reducing the likelihood of re-infectionand.

Probiotic for vaginal odour

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Unpleasant odour of the intimate area is most often caused by a bacterial or fungal infection. In some cases, it can also be the result of poor hygiene or wearing ill-fitting underwear.

Before you reach for a probiotic - see your doctor to determine the cause of the troublesome odour. Don't treat yourself on your own, or you could harm yourself. After the diagnosis, you can ask your specialist about the appropriateness of probiotics and ask them to recommend a specific product.

And what can you do at home? In addition to the necessary visit to the gynaecologist, invest in a good intimate hygiene lotion. One based on plant extracts, such as chamomile or calendula, will help you deal with unpleasant odours.

And you can do it at home.

Take a look at your panties too. Experts recommend choosing those made of natural, breathable materials. Underwear should also not cut into your body or cause chafing (thongs really aren't a good choice).

Please note.

Probiotic for vaginal mycosis

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It is estimated that vaginal ringworm affects more than 75% of women. The best probiotics contain several strains of lactic acid bacteria (Lactobacillus), which will complement each other and hinder the colonisation of Candida. The best probiotic strains tested for this are: Lactobacillus rhamnosus GR-1 and Lactobacillus reuteri RC-14.

Magister of Pharmacy Ilona Krzak lists more:

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• Lactobacillus fermentum RC-14,
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• Lactobacillus fermentum B-54,
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• Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG,
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• Lactobacillus acidophilus,
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In vitro studies have shown that these strains are able to displace Candida yeasts from the vaginal mucosa, reduce their ability to adhere to it and thereby reduce the abundance of these pathogensand.

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Gynaecological strobiotics - doctor and pharmacist opinion

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The correct bacterial flora and the correct pH in the vagina is the best barrier against the development of bacterial and fungal infections. Vaginal probiotics, which are commonly available, vary in composition and concentration of the bacteria they contain.

Gynaecological microbiotics are a safe and inexpensive way to support a healthy vaginal microbiome. The article cites exactly how important this is. There is a growing resistance of Candida to azole drugs these days, so traditional treatment alone may be ineffective and this is when probiotics come to the rescue.

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Gynaecological probiotics - contraindications

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Can probiotics cause harm? Gynaecological probiotic bacteria preparations are safe and their use is usually not associated with significant side effects. However, people with severe immune disorders should not take any probioticsand.

Alternatively, an allergy to any of its ingredients is also a contraindication to taking a probiotic preparation.

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Also, if you are pregnant or breastfeeding - do not start probiotic therapy alone. Always consult its legitimacy and safety with your gynaecologist.

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Summary

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