Vaginal burning: 10 causes and treatments
Health Matters: Bacterial Vaginosis Isn't A STD. Here's Why You Shouldn't Believe Everything You Read On Social Media
We tapped an obstetrician-gynecologist to understand what Bacterial Vaginosis is, what to do if you have it, and how to treat it.
Social media can be an interesting place. Most use social media platforms to connect with friends and family; others leverage them to expand their businesses. However, some folks log onto X (formerly known as Twitter) to spread misinformation. On October 1st, a user on the platform tweeted to her 56,600 followers that bacterial vaginosis is an STD, which caused an uproar. As a result, the users' followers and onlookers commented on the post with various responses rooted in confusion and anger. Some women users, however, asked what BV was, which concerned me as knowing about vaginal health, especially as a woman is important. Despite what the user tweeted, bacterial vaginosis isn't an STD. Instead, it's a common, treatable vaginal condition that happens when there is too much of certain bacteria in the vagina, which changes the normal balance of bacteria in the vagina.
Bacterial vaginosis happens when the vagina's natural bacteria levels are out of balance. The bacteria in the vagina are called the vaginal flora. Balanced vaginal flora help keep the vagina healthy. Usually, "good" bacteria outnumber "bad" bacteria. The good bacteria are called lactobacilli; the harmful bacteria are anaerobes. When there are too many anaerobes, they upset the balance of the flora, causing bacterial vaginosis. At the same time, bacterial vaginosis isn't an STD; the untreated condition can cause a higher risk of receiving an STI.
The misinformation spread on X caused me to contact a certified obstetrician-gynecologist, Dr. Kiarra King, to learn more about bacterial vaginosis. "Bacterial vaginosis is essentially an overgrowth of bacteria that normally live in the vagina; it's actually not a true infection. The pH of the vagina is moderately acidic (normal pH is 3.8-5); if anything disrupts the normal pH, there can be a shift in the flora or environment in the vagina. This can lead to bacterial vaginosis. Symptoms may include vaginal irritation, thin grayish discharge, and a fishy or foul odor. BV is very common in reproductive-age women," she tells ESSENCE.
She continues, "As BV results from a pH shift in the vagina, BV prevention can occur by any means that can help maintain a normal vaginal pH (around 3.5-4.5). So, avoiding douching, wearing clean and dry undergarments (cotton or wicking fabrics to avoid excessive moisture), and, for some, probiotics can help maintain a normal vaginal pH and prevent BV. For some women, vaginal boric acid suppositories can help. These must be medical-grade or prescribed products and not what you would purchase at a hardware store as an insecticide. More importantly, call or see your OB/GYN to confirm a diagnosis before trying new treatments."
Dr. King found it important to reiterate that BV isn't an STI. "According to the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, although the occurrence of bacterial vaginosis is associated with sexual activity for both heterosexual and lesbian couples and rarely occurs in patients who have never been sexually active, the sexual transmission of a single pathogen does not directly cause it. However, per the CDC, BV can increase the chances of getting an STI. Additionally, not using condoms and having multiple sexual partners can increase the risk of having BV."
If you have BV, you should have it confirmed by your OB/GYN, as other infections can present similarly to it. Doing this will allow the appropriate course of treatment to be given. BV is treatable with oral or intravaginal antibiotics.
Here's how to prevent bacterial vaginosis:
Don't use scented products. Wash your genitals with warm water only. Scented soaps and other scented products may cause vaginal tissues. Use unscented tampons or pads only.
Don't douche. Douching won't worsen a vaginal infection but may worsen it. Your vagina doesn't require cleansing other than routine bathing. Douching disrupts the vaginal flora, raising your risk of infection.
Practice safe sex. To lower your risk of STIs, use latex condoms or dental dams. Clean any sex toys. Limit your number of sex partners, or don't have sex.
Vaginal Health Can Have Major Implications For Your Overall Wellness. Here's What To Know.
Vaginal health can be an overwhelming topic. Many people are uncomfortable speaking about the issues that arise with their genitalia — which, unfortunately, only further stigmatizes discussions about vaginal health. Yet the vagina is an important part of the body, and its health can have great impacts on your wellness as a whole.
Here's everything you need to know about vaginal health.
Signs to watch out for Vaginal dischargeMost vaginal discharge is normal — and even keeps the vagina healthy. However, changes in vaginal discharge can sometimes signal that there is something wrong, such as an infection. While vaginal discharge typically doesn't have an odor, an infection can cause a stronger smell, making it something to look out for.
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The same goes for color: According to Dr. Mary Jane Minkin, a professor of obstetrics, gynecology and reproductive sciences at the Yale University School of Medicine, discharge caused by bacterial infections such as bacterial vaginosis (BV) can be grayish in color, while those linked to trichomoniasis are usually greenish-yellow. A yeast infection, meanwhile, typically produces white discharge with a "cottage cheesy" appearance, she said.
Vaginal/vulvar itchinessIt's no fun to be itchy down there, and often it can be a sign that something is amiss. Yeast infections, bacterial vaginosis (BV), lichen sclerosus, and even vulvar cancer can lead to itchiness around your vulva or inside your vagina, which means it's important to speak to a medical professional.
Sometimes, however, it's the products you use that can cause this type of itchiness.
"Women are told they should use all these vulvar washes and other products, and it's really poison to the vulva," says Dr. Lauren Streicher, professor of obstetrics and gynecology at Northwestern University. "It's not meant for vulvar use, even if the product says it is. All these perfumes and chemicals can cause a lot of problems in terms of itching and burning and irritation."
Vaginal odorWhile some people may feel insecure about vaginal odor, it's worth noting that you're not supposed to smell like a bouquet of flowers down there — and you shouldn't use products that suggest you should because they can throw off your vagina's pH and cause a slew of issues. That being said, there are some odors — such as a strong fishy, rotten or yeasty smell — that can signal something is wrong, like BV or a yeast infection. If you sense some changes to the way you smell, it's important to check in with your medical provider.
Vaginal penetration painSex is not supposed to hurt — and neither is putting in a tampon. Certain conditions, such as irritable bowel syndrome, vaginismus, infections and fibroids, may cause pain from intercourse or other penetration.
"Frequent or moderate to severe pain usually indicates that something isn't right and is a strong indication that it should be addressed with a health care provider," women's health expert Dr. Jennifer Wider tells Yahoo Life.
Unfortunately, for people who experience pain constantly during penetration, it can become the norm — which stops them from seeking help for that specific issue.
"So many women wait until their annual visit [to bring it up], but there often isn't enough time to really dive into what's going on," Streicher tells Yahoo Life. "It's meant to be a well-woman visit, but this isn't a well woman — it's a problem."
Possible diagnoses Bacterial vaginosis (BV)Bacterial vaginosis (BV) is typically caused by an overgrowth of a common type of bacteria called gardnerella vaginalis. It's the most common vaginal infection in women, affecting nearly 30% of women between 15 and 44 years old, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Treatment involves a seven-day course of antibiotics, and it's important to complete the course to avoid a relapse.
BV is diagnosed by testing a sample of vaginal fluid, and while there are sometimes "no symptoms," Wider previously told Yahoo Life, "the most common include an off-white, gray or greenish, watery vaginal discharge [and] a 'fishy' odor that can be strongest during the period or after sex." A less common symptom is itchiness or soreness, she added.
Bartholin's cystsThe Bartholin's glands are located on each side of the vaginal opening, making a Bartholin's cyst a fluid-filled lump near the vaginal opening. According to the Mayo Clinic, a Bartholin's cyst forms when the glands become obstructed and cause fluid to back up into the gland. A small, noninfected cyst may go unnoticed — however, if the fluid becomes infected, it can cause pain, tenderness and discomfort while walking or sitting. A person may also develop a fever.
It's important to call your doctor if you have extreme pain from your Batholin's cyst, especially if it doesn't go away after two to three days of self-care, such as sitting in a warm bath, according to the Mayo Clinic.
Treatment of a Bartholin's cyst involves incision and drainage, and "if the cyst is large or if it recurs, a larger incision is made involving suturing in a procedure called marsupialization, usually done in an operating room," Dr. Jonathan Schaffir, an ob-gyn at the Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, previously told Yahoo Life.
If the cyst is infected, antibiotics are typically recommended.
TrichomoniasisAccording to the Mayo Clinic, trichomoniasis is a common sexually transmitted infection caused by a parasite. It can cause a foul-smelling vaginal discharge, which some liken to a fishy smell, as well as genital itching and painful urination.
According to Planned Parenthood, "Trich is often passed during vaginal sex. It's also spread by vulva-to-vulva contact, sharing sex toys, and touching your own or your partner's genitals if you have infected fluids on your hand."
Antibiotics are used to treat trichomoniasis, so it's important to seek out medical help if you experience any of the symptoms.
Two vaginasSome people are born with a septum in their vagina, a wall of tissue that runs down the length of the vagina and creates two different vaginal openings.
This septum is the result of uterus didelphys, which is part of "a spectrum of disorders that are referred to as Müllerian abnormalities," Dr. Erin Higgins, an ob-gyn at the Cleveland Clinic, previously told Yahoo Life. It is a congenital anomaly that someone is born with, she said, and "you can have everything from complete uterus duplication ... To something just shy of normal, which is an arcuate uterus, a minor irregularity of the uterus that is sometimes referred to as a 'heart-shaped uterus.'"
Dr. Beth Oller, family physician at Rooks County Health Center in Kansas, told Yahoo Life that people with uterus didelphys can have two uteruses and either one or two cervixes. They may or may not have the vaginal septum.
Sex can be difficult for people with a vaginal septum, especially if they or their sexual partners are unaware of the condition. In addition, Oller noted, "Someone with a double vagina may find that when they use a tampon during a period, for example, they still have bleeding, as blood is still flowing from the second uterus and vagina."
Vaginal atrophyVaginal atrophy is "thinning, drying and inflammation of the vaginal walls that may occur when your body has less estrogen," per the Mayo Clinic.
According to Harvard Health Publishing, 50% of women develop symptoms related to vaginal atrophy. While it's most common in women who've experienced menopause, there are other factors that may lower your estrogen levels, including chemotherapy or radiation treatment, certain medications and birth control pills, immune disorders, breastfeeding and smoking cigarettes, per the Cleveland Clinic.
Symptoms of vaginal atrophy include:
Burning and/or itching in your vagina
Pain during sex
Unusual vaginal discharge, typically yellow
Spotting or bleeding, especially during sex
Vulvar itching
According to the Mayo Clinic, the first treatment options include vaginal moisturizers and water-based lubricants. For those who need more help easing their symptoms, vaginal estrogen therapy can help. It comes in the form of tablets, suppositories, creams and rings. Estrogen pills, patches or gel, or a higher-dose estrogen ring may be recommended if the vaginal estrogen does not work.
In addition to estrogen therapy, medications like Ospemifene and Prasterone can also help. Topical lidocaine can also be used to lessen discomfort during sex.
Another option is using a vaginal dilator, which is available without a prescription and works by stretching the vagina in hopes of relieving discomfort.
VaginismusSome people who experience pain during vaginal penetration have vaginismus. This occurs when the muscles around the opening to the vagina tighten up like "a clenched jaw due to actual or anticipated pain," ob-gyn Dr. Kimberly Langdon told Yahoo Life. Prior surgery, hormonal changes, recurring urinary tract infections, tears from childbirth and vaginal dryness can lead to the vaginismus, but psychological issues can be a factor as well, such as past sexual trauma or anxiety about sex.
Vaginismus is typically treatable by addressing the underlying physical or psychological conditions. In order to relax the muscles surrounding the vagina, ob-gyns may recommend pelvic muscle training, or vaginal dilator therapy, which stretches the vaginal muscles.
Yeast infectionA yeast infection is caused by an overgrowth of fungus called candida. A tell-tale sign is vaginal discharge that tends to be neutral smelling and whiteish in color with clumps in it, "almost like cottage cheese," Dr. Andrea Braden, an ob-gyn in Atlanta, previously told Yahoo Life. "It's almost a slam-dunk diagnosis if you're having itching and that discharge, and you can treat it at home."
According to VeryWell Health, a yeast infection can be treated by an over-the-counter antifungal treatments that come in the form of vaginal suppositories, vaginal tablets or creams with special applicators. Your doctor may prescribe a one-time dose or a multi-day dose depending on the nature of your yeast infection.
Risk factors for a yeast infection include things like sitting in a wet bathing suit or sweaty clothes, as well as using scented vaginal products such as tampons or deodorant, per the Cleveland Clinic. In addition, antibiotics, birth control, pregnancy, a weakened immune system and diabetes can be contributing factors.
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Best Probiotics For Women: 5 Quality Probiotic Supplements For Women
You've probably heard of probiotics and all the benefits they can have on your health. But what exactly are they? Probiotics are live microorganisms — typically beneficial bacteria and yeasts — that live in your gut.
Adding a daily probiotic supplement to your daily routine can be beneficial to most people, but probiotics for women can be particularly valuable. A woman's gut microbiome and vaginal microbiome require a delicate balance for healthy functioning and specially-formulated probiotics are perfect for that.
Women are also up to six times more likely to experience irritable bowel syndrome, so maintaining gut health is crucial.
Probiotics for women can be designed to boost vaginal health, digestive health and immune support. Plus, they're available in a range of probiotic strains and forms. With a wide variety of choices, how do you find the right one for your individual needs?
Well, we scoured the market to find the best probiotics for women and discovered the top five products out there. Read on to learn more about which of these dietary supplements provide the health benefits you need.
Summary of the Best Probiotics for Women Benefits of Probiotics for WomenMore and more research shows that the balance of internal bacteria is linked to overall health and certain medical conditions. By promoting a healthy balance of the internal microbiome, probiotics have been linked to a wide range of health benefits.
Improved vaginal healthResearch shows that some types of lactobacilli — one of the most popular probiotic strains — can be beneficial in preventing and treating vaginal infections, yeast infections and urogenital infections.
Bacterial vaginosis (BV), an infection caused by a disruption in the balance of natural bacteria, is a common cause of vaginal discomfort. BV can also cause pelvic inflammatory disease and even pregnancy complications. Maintaining a healthy vaginal biome can help reduce the risk of contracting BV and therefore further reproductive health issues.
Maintain the balance of healthy gut bacteriaYou can develop an imbalance of "good" and "bad" bacteria in the gut through illness, poor diet and medication. And the consequences of this imbalance can be felt throughout the entire body. These consequences can include gastrointestinal issues, allergies, obesity, mental health issues and more.
Probiotic supplements are thought to help restore the natural, healthy balance of gut bacteria. This may help protect against numerous health complaints and maintain overall health and wellness.
Overall gut healthWomen statistically experience more gastrointestinal problems than men, so promoting a healthy gut pay may be of particular importance to women. Taking probiotics can help reduce the symptoms of digestive conditions, such as bloating, diarrhea and constipation. However, it's worth mentioning that the effects of probiotics are transient, meaning that once you stop taking them, the benefits will wear off.
Boost MoodWomen can experience more changes in mood, due to hormonal fluctuations during their monthly cycle. Research indicates that a healthy gut microflora can help support good mental health, while an imbalanced microflora can contribute to mood issues.
A review study found that supplementing with bifidobacterium and lactobacillus strains for one to three months can improve depression, anxiety, obsessive compulsive disorders and more.
This is because our gut bacteria can influence and mimic the hormones responsible for regulating mood and also communicate with the brain via the vagus nerve. This connection is known as the gut-brain axis.
Prevent urinary tract infectionsApproximately half of all women regularly experience urinary tract infections (UTIs). Evidence suggests that taking a probiotic suppository can effectively clear UTI infections and rebalance the vaginal microbiome. Furthermore, when infections do occur, probiotics can help calm the unpleasant symptoms of UTIs.
If you're prone to UTI infection, this can prove to be particularly useful following a course of antibiotics, as these can often cause an imbalance in the body's microbiome.
Weight lossCertain probiotics may help with weight loss. Some probiotics can prevent the absorption of dietary fat in the intestine, which is then excreted through the feces. However, more research is needed to understand the link between probiotics and weight.
Heart healthProbiotics may help keep your heart healthy by lowering LDL (i.E. "bad") cholesterol and blood pressure. Furthermore, some strains of lactic acid-producing bacteria may reduce cholesterol by breaking down bile in the gut, which prevents this form of cholesterol from being reabsorbed in the gut.
Best Probiotics in 2023 1. Best Overall Probiotic for Women: SHIFTED PROBIOTIC FormulaAbout the product
Each SHIFTED PROBIOTIC capsule contains a blend of seven probiotics, which may help:
These capsules are made with MCT oil which is packed full of healthy fats that help nourish the gut's good bacteria so they can grow and flourish. Furthermore, MCT oil may help strengthen the intestinal barrier to help stop harmful bacteria and pathogens from entering the body's systems.
The SHIFTED PROBIOTIC Formula can be easily added to your nutrition and supplement regime. The vegan and gluten-free formula fits most dietary requirements. Simply take one capsule with a meal each day to get all the digestive and immunity benefits of the evidence-backed probiotic blend.
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About the product
The SBO Probiotics formula from Ancient Nutrition contains an organic fermented botanical blend, prebiotics and postbiotics designed to promote gut health.
This supplement is formulated with four clinically studied probiotics that thrive in the gut by creating a hospitable environment for healthy bacteria.
These capsules are also made with superfoods like turmeric root, ginger root and black pepper fruit, which have been fermented to release nutrients, making them easier to absorb.
This blend of ingredients may help support healthy digestive and immune function, promote regularity and reduce occasional constipation, gas and bloating.
Suitable for most dietary requirements, the probiotic is gluten-free, grain-free, dairy-free, soy-free and nut-free. It's also vegan, keto and paleo-friendly.
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About the product
The blend of probiotics in the Natural Stacks MoodBiotic works to support gut health and improve digestion. 95% of serotonin is produced by your gut, so MoodBiotic may help boost your mood while also improving your digestive health.
Each vegetarian capsule contains probiotic strains associated with positive mood states, as well as probiotic strains that are known to increase levels of hormones related to brain health.
Natural Stacks believes in transparency and therefore provides both ingredient traceability and third-party lab results for every batch. The results of testing are available on the brand's website and via a QR code on the product packaging.
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About the product
The Aura Essentials Daily Probiotic Gummy is designed to promote a diverse healthy microbiome, improve digestive regularity and help with occasional diarrhea, constipation, gas and bloating.
Gummies like these are a good option if you aren't fond of swallowing capsules because they're tasty and chewy. The gummies are formulated with natural, clean ingredients that are gluten-free, plant-based and contain no artificial flavors or fillings.
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About the product
Help promote healthy digestion and boost immunity with the Flora Plus Probiotics capsules from Akasha Naturals. Each capsule contains powerful and reliable probiotic strains that are known to benefit digestion, boost immunity, promote hormonal balance and improve overall physical and mental well-being.
The capsules are dairy-free and vegetarian, so they will suit a wide range of dietary requirements. Just a single capsule a day provides enough bacteria to help maximize the function of the digestive system, by proliferating healthy bacteria and maintaining the integrity of the lining of the gut.
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As probiotics are considered a dietary supplement, they aren't regulated in the same way as medications. Because of this, we can't always be sure that the probiotic contains enough bacteria to have an effect, that the bacteria are able to survive until they reach the gut and even that the amount of bacteria is the same as what's stated on the packaging.
However, there are several criteria we can look at to make sure we're recommending only the finest quality probiotic supplements for women:
Production processHow a probiotic supplement is manufactured can indicate quality. We looked for brands that produce their supplements adhering to Current Good Manufacturing Practice (cGMP) regulations, which provide for systems that ensure systems and processes that assure strength, quality and purity of products.
Customer reviewsCustomer reviews offer great insights into the effectiveness of probiotic supplements for women. We read through dozens of verified customer reviews to see how real people responded to our chosen probiotic supplements – what benefits they experienced, how satisfied they were with the results and if customer service was up to scratch.
Quality ingredientsQuality ingredients are an absolute must. All of the probiotics we recommend are made with high-quality and natural ingredients and are free from preservatives, fillers and any other artificial ingredients. Plus, we favored brands that could provide results of third-party testing that verify the microorganism potency and purity of the probiotics.
What to Look For When Buying ProbioticsA good quality probiotic can help replenish the gut and vagina with healthy and productive bacteria. However, not all probiotics are created equal and choosing the wrong one can be at best costly and ineffective and at worst, cause further issues. Here are a few things to keep in mind when buying probiotic supplements:
Probiotic strainsDifferent probiotic strains are beneficial to different health concerns. For example, lactobacillus acidophilus and bacillus coagulans have been shown to benefit bloating and the symptoms of IBS, while bifidobacterium lactis can help support gut health in those with occasional constipation.
Therefore, before buying a probiotic, do a little research to find out which strains are most beneficial to your health and wellness issues.
Shelf lifeYou're going to want to make sure the shelf life of a probiotic lasts long enough for your intended use. While the expiration date varies between supplements, most shelf-stable probiotics last between one to two years. Using proper storage techniques, such as keeping them in their blister packs or proper packaging, can maximize the shelf life.
It's also worth checking the storage needs of probiotic supplements. Most probiotics are shelf-stable, meaning they can be stored at room temperature, while others require refrigeration due to being sensitive to heat and moisture.
Targeted formulationProbiotics are available for different health and wellness concerns. Think about your intended use for a probiotic — whether it be to support digestive health, immune function, or reproductive health — and choose a formulation with microorganisms targeted to your concerns.
PriceDetermining value for money is not always easy with supplements, but there are a few things that can help you figure out if a probiotic is worth the money:
Probiotics are foods or supplements that contain bacteria and yeasts that naturally live in your body. There are constant colonies of good and bad bacteria within the body — such as in the gut, vagina, mouth and urinary tract. When you get an infection the levels of bad bacteria are higher than good bacteria, which knocks your body's microflora out of balance. Probiotics flood your system with good bacteria, restoring balance.
For a microbe to qualify as a probiotic, it must be able to:
There are many microorganisms that are considered probiotics, with the most common being lactobacillus and bifidobacterium, which are types of bacteria and saccharomyces boulardii, a type of yeast.
Probiotics are associated with improving a number of conditions, such as reducing the frequency of infections, maintaining vaginal health and relieving gastrointestinal distress, such as occasional diarrhea and constipation.
Side effects associated with probiotics are typically mild and include an increase in bloating, gas and constipation. However, any side effects are usually temporary.
Unlikely, but possible risks of probiotics include developing infections, developing antibiotics and a reaction to harmful byproducts from the probiotics. These risks are increased if you have a medical condition that compromises your immune system, have recently had surgery, or currently suffer a serious medical condition.
The Difference Between Probiotics and PrebioticsProbiotics are supplements or foods that contain live microorganisms intended to support and replenish the good bacteria in the body. Prebiotics are supplements of foods — typically high in fiber — that provide nutrition for the body's microflora. Examples of foods that are high in prebiotics include:
A diet rich in prebiotic foods also supports the health of the intestines, by improving digestion, boosting the absorption of nutrients and supporting the immune system. Furthermore, they are a good source of vitamins and minerals, such as calcium, which is essential for maintaining bone health.
FAQs: How do probiotics work?Probiotic supplements work by providing a dose of good bacteria, which can help restore disrupted flora in the gut and vagina. Subsequently, a healthy microflora can in turn boost immunity, metabolism, energy levels and overall health.
The good bacteria (and yeasts in some probiotics) help equalize the excess of bad bacteria, which can be caused by lack of exercise, pollution, stress and unhealthy foods.
Are there any side effects of probiotics?Probiotics are safe for use by the majority of people, but there can be side effects. The most common side effects of probiotics include a temporary increase in bloating, constipation, gas and thirst.
In rarer cases, those with compromised immune systems or recent surgeries may develop an infection from the bacteria in probiotic supplements. Therefore, it's wise to speak to your doctor before you start taking probiotics.
Plus, those with allergies could have an adverse reaction to some of the ingredients contained within a supplement, so always check the ingredient list carefully.
Can probiotics help with digestive issues?If you're taking a high-quality, multi-species and multi-strain probiotic supplement, you can expect to see improvements in minor digestive issues like bloating, constipation and stomach pain in as little as one to two weeks.
When is the best time to take probiotics?Probiotics are typically most effective when taken 20 to 30 minutes before a meal. Taking it before breakfast may be most effective as the digestive system has been in a state of rest for an extended period of time, meaning the probiotic has less resistance reaching the intestines.
Can probiotics be taken with antibiotics?Yes, clinical research suggests that antibiotics can be taken alongside probiotics. As a general rule, it's recommended that you leave a gap of between one and two hours after taking an antibiotic before taking a probiotic supplement. After this length of time, sufficient levels of microorganisms are able to reach the gut alive.
Do I have to take probiotics forever?For short-term relief, such as reducing diarrhea, probiotic supplements can work in as little as a few days. However, for more chronic issues, such as long-term bloating, it may be more beneficial to take probiotics for weeks or months at a time. This is because when you stop taking probiotics, your microflora may return to its pre-supplementation state within one to three weeks. For longer-lasting results, it's recommended to continue feeding the "good" bacteria with probiotics.
ConclusionProbiotics are live microorganisms that can be consumed as supplements or as part of our diets in fermented food like probiotic yogurt or kimchi. They are designed to boost the populations of beneficial bacteria and yeasts (microflora) that live in our guts and vagina.
By restoring balance to the microflora can have a number of health benefits including improved gut and vaginal health, protection against infection, better heart health and even boosted mood. Probiotic supplements may be of particular benefit to women, who are more prone to UTI infections, digestive issues and IBS.
As probiotic supplements include microorganisms that are already found in the human body, the side effects are typically minimal, with common ones including temporary forms of bloating, constipation and thirst. That being said, it's recommended you talk to your doctor before you start taking a probiotic supplement, particularly if you have pre-existing medical conditions or are pregnant.
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