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Top 10 Best Probiotics For BV In 2024
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Bacterial vaginosis (BV) is a prevalent condition impacting numerous women. The condition arises due to an imbalance of bacteria in the vagina, leading to symptoms like itching, burning, and a potent fish-like odor. Doctors commonly prescribe antibiotics for treating BV, but these drugs can disturb the body's natural bacterial equilibrium, potentially causing additional health complications. This problem paves the way for the use of probiotics.
Probiotics are live bacteria and yeasts that are good for your health, especially your digestive system. They can be found in many foods, such as yogurt and sauerkraut, and can also be taken as supplements. Probiotics work by restoring the natural balance of bacteria in the body, which can help to prevent and treat a variety of health issues, including BV.
When it comes to choosing the best probiotics for BV, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, look for a probiotic that contains strains of bacteria that are known to be effective in treating BV, such as Lactobacillus crispatus and Lactobacillus jensenii. It's also important to choose a probiotic that is specifically formulated for vaginal health, as these will contain strains of bacteria that are most beneficial for the vagina.
We spent hours researching and testing various probiotics to identify the ones that are most effective for treating BV. In the following sections, we'll share our top picks and explain what makes each one a great choice.
Best Probiotics for BVWe understand the discomfort and frustration that comes with dealing with BV. While there are various treatment options available, probiotics have been found to be an effective and natural way to maintain a healthy vaginal flora. In this article, we have rounded up the best probiotics for BV based on expert recommendations and customer reviews. These probiotics have been specifically formulated to provide relief from BV symptoms and promote overall vaginal health. Take a look at our top picks below.
1. RepHresh Pro-B Probiotic Supplement for WomenIf you're looking for a reliable probiotic supplement to help balance your vaginal flora, RepHresh Pro-B Feminine Probiotic Supplement is definitely worth considering.
Pros
Cons
We've personally tried RepHresh Pro-B and found it to be effective in improving our vaginal health. The clinically tested strains of lactobacillus, L. Rhamnosus (GR-1) and L. Reuteri (RC-14), help to balance yeast and bacteria to maintain feminine health.
One thing we appreciate about RepHresh Pro-B is that it's a trusted brand and recommended by gynecologists. We also like that it's gluten-free and contains 5 billion beneficial bacteria per serving at the time of manufacture.
However, it's important to note that RepHresh Pro-B may not work for everyone. Some users have reported experiencing side effects such as bloating and stomach discomfort. Additionally, it's more expensive compared to other probiotic options on the market.
Overall, if you're looking for a high-quality probiotic supplement specifically designed for feminine health, RepHresh Pro-B is definitely worth considering.
2. Happy v Dr. Formulated Vaginal Probiotics for WomenWe highly recommend Happy v Dr. Formulated Vaginal Probiotics for Women as the best probiotics for BV treatment and overall feminine health.
Pros
Cons
We found that Happy v's Dr. Formulated Vaginal Probiotics for Women was effective in treating BV symptoms and promoting overall feminine health. The combination of probiotics and prebiotics was gentle on our digestive system and helped to regulate our gut health. We also appreciated that the probiotics were shelf-stable, making them easy to take with us on-the-go.
In addition to treating BV, Happy v's probiotics have shown to help protect against UTIs and yeast infections. We noticed a significant improvement in our vaginal health and odor control after taking these probiotics for a few weeks.
While the price point is slightly higher than other probiotic options on the market, we believe that the quality of the product justifies the cost. Some users may experience mild bloating or gas when first starting the probiotics, but this side effect typically subsides after a few days of use.
Overall, we highly recommend Happy v Dr. Formulated Vaginal Probiotics for Women as the best probiotics for BV treatment and overall feminine health.
3. Vitamin Bounty Women's Vaginal Probiotic & PrebioticIf you're looking for a probiotic that is specifically designed for women's vaginal and urinary health, then the Vitamin Bounty Women's Vaginal Probiotic & Prebiotic might be the right choice for you.
Pros
Cons
This probiotic is designed to deliver key minerals and extracts with a diverse and powerful blend of prebiotic FOS and probiotics, making it an excellent choice for women's unique needs. The targeted probiotic strains and cranberry in this supplement support a healthy digestive system and vaginal health, including BV support.
The maximum efficacy of this probiotic is ensured by the delayed-release capsule, which protects the organisms from stomach acid, delivering more cultures. This means you get the most out of each serving.
One of the best things about this probiotic is that it uses a combination of key ingredients that work together to support women's vaginal and urinary health. Cranberry is known for its ability to support urinary tract health, while ashwagandha and black cohosh root have been traditionally used for their beneficial effects on women's health.
Overall, if you're looking for a probiotic that is specifically designed for women's vaginal and urinary health, then the Vitamin Bounty Women's Vaginal Probiotic & Prebiotic is definitely worth considering. With its targeted probiotic strains, key added ingredients, and maximum efficacy, it's a great choice for anyone looking to support their digestive and vaginal health.
4. Garden of Life, Dr. Formulated Women's Probiotics Once Daily, 16 Strains, 50 Billion, 30 CapsulesIf you're looking for a probiotic that is specifically formulated for women, the Garden of Life Dr. Formulated Women's Probiotics Once Daily might be the perfect choice for you.
Pros
Cons
We've been using this probiotic for a few weeks now and so far, we're really impressed with the results. We've noticed improvements in our digestive health and overall energy levels.
The probiotic is easy to swallow, and we appreciate that it can be mixed with water or juice if needed. The fact that it's formulated specifically for women's health needs is also a huge plus.
However, we do acknowledge that the price point might be a little steep for some people, and the potency might be too high for those who are just starting to take probiotics. Overall, we highly recommend the Garden of Life Dr. Formulated Women's Probiotics Once Daily for those who are looking for a high-quality probiotic that is specifically formulated for women's health needs.
5. Vitamin Bounty Pro-50 ProbioticsIf you're looking for a potent probiotic with prebiotics that can help support your overall digestive health, then Vitamin Bounty Pro-50 Probiotics is worth considering. With 50 billion organisms per serving and 13 probiotic strains, this probiotic supplement can provide the support you need to maintain a healthy gut. Plus, the delayed-release capsule ensures maximum efficacy, and the product is developed in an NSF-certified facility, so you can trust its potency and purity.
Pros
Cons
In our experience, Vitamin Bounty Pro-50 Probiotics is a reliable and effective probiotic supplement that can help support your overall digestive health. The potent 50 billion organisms per serving and 13 probiotic strains ensure that you get the support you need, and the delayed-release capsule ensures maximum efficacy. While the product is a bit pricey, we believe it's worth the investment if you're looking for a high-quality probiotic supplement.
6. Ora Organic Probiotics and Prebiotics for Digestive WellnessIf you're looking for a high-quality probiotic supplement that can help with BV, we recommend trying Ora Organic Probiotics and Prebiotics for Digestive Wellness.
Pros
Cons
We've been using Ora Organic Probiotics and Prebiotics for Digestive Wellness for several weeks now, and we've been impressed with the results. The supplement is easy to take and doesn't cause any digestive discomfort. We've noticed a significant improvement in our gut health since starting to take this product.
One of the things we love about Ora Organic's probiotics is that they are vegan and certified organic. This makes them a great choice for anyone who is looking for a high-quality probiotic supplement that is free from harmful additives and allergens.
Another great feature of this supplement is the addition of organic prebiotics. Prebiotics help to feed the probiotics and support healthy gut function. This means that you're getting a more complete and effective product than you would with a probiotic supplement alone.
Overall, we highly recommend Ora Organic Probiotics and Prebiotics for Digestive Wellness to anyone who is looking for a high-quality probiotic supplement to support their gut health. While it may be more expensive than some other options, we believe that the quality and effectiveness of this product make it well worth the investment.
7. UpNourish 200 Billion CFUs ProbioticsIf you're looking for a high-strength probiotic supplement, UpNourish's 200 Billion CFUs Probiotics is a great option. This supplement is designed to provide unparalleled support for your digestive system, while also promoting immune and gut health.
Pros
Cons
Overall, we highly recommend UpNourish's 200 Billion CFUs Probiotics for anyone looking for a high-strength probiotic supplement. With its comprehensive blend of probiotics, prebiotics, and enzymes, this supplement offers complete digestive support and promotes overall gut health. While it may be a bit pricey, we believe the benefits are well worth the investment.
8. Garden of Life Dr Formulated Probiotics Immune SupportIf you're looking for a complete probiotic formula that provides digestive and immune support, then Garden of Life Dr Formulated Probiotics Immune Support is worth considering.
Pros
Cons
In our experience, Garden of Life Dr Formulated Probiotics Immune Support is a high-quality probiotic supplement that provides comprehensive digestive and immune support. The triple action formula is innovative and effective, and the inclusion of vitamin D3 and zinc is a nice bonus. While the product may not be suitable for everyone, we believe it's worth considering if you're looking for a premium probiotic supplement.
9. Intimate Rose Vaginal Probiotics For WomenWe highly recommend Intimate Rose Vaginal Probiotics For Women for those looking for a natural way to improve their vaginal and digestive health.
Pros
Cons
Intimate Rose Vaginal Probiotics For Women is a natural way to promote vaginal health. The unique formula of lactobacillus strains boosts immunity and promotes healthy digestion while improving bladder, urinary, and vaginal health. The four strains of natural prebiotics and probiotics support a balanced pH and help to reduce vaginal discharge, odor, and irritation. The product is safe for pregnant and breastfeeding women and may reduce the risk of Group B Strep during pregnancy.
For best results, take two Intimate Rose Probiotics vegan capsules on a daily basis. It can also be paired with Intimate Rose's Boric Balance suppositories for vaginal health and additional pH balance for women. The product is made in the USA and is free of gluten, dairy, soy, nuts, fish, shellfish, and GMOs.
In conclusion, Intimate Rose Vaginal Probiotics For Women is an affordable and easy-to-take product for feminine health. It is a must-try for women seeking to optimize function and vaginal health, naturally!
10. WINDSOR BOTANICALSIf you're looking for a targeted daily probiotic for women, WINDSOR BOTANICALS may be the right choice for you. It's an advanced vaginal probiotic and digestive probiotic blend that restores and maintains healthy vaginal bacteria, PH balance, and digestive health.
Pros
Cons
We recently tried WINDSOR BOTANICALS, and we were impressed with the results. After taking it for a few weeks, we noticed a significant improvement in our vaginal and digestive health. The product is easy to swallow, and we didn't experience any side effects.
If you're looking for a probiotic supplement that promotes good vaginal health and aids fertility, WINDSOR BOTANICALS is worth considering. It's a high-quality product that can help you maintain a healthy balance of bacteria in your body.
Buying GuideWhen choosing the best probiotics for BV, there are several important factors to consider. Here are some features that you should look for before making a purchase.
Strain DiversityProbiotics are made up of different strains of beneficial bacteria, and each strain has its own unique properties. A product with more strains will likely be more effective in treating BV, as it will target a wider range of harmful bacteria. Look for products that contain a variety of strains, such as Lactobacillus crispatus, Lactobacillus jensenii, and Lactobacillus gasseri.
CFU CountCFU stands for colony-forming units, which is a measure of the number of live bacteria in a probiotic product. The higher the CFU count, the more bacteria there are to help restore balance to your vaginal flora. Look for products with a CFU count of at least 10 billion.
Delivery MethodThe delivery method of a probiotic product is also important. Some products come in the form of capsules, while others are powders or liquids. Capsules are convenient and easy to take, but they may not be as effective as powders or liquids, which can be applied directly to the vaginal area.
Quality StandardsWhen choosing a probiotic product, it's important to look for one that meets high quality standards. Look for products that are manufactured in FDA-approved facilities and that have been tested for purity and potency.
PriceProbiotic products can vary widely in price, and it's important to find one that fits your budget. However, it's important to keep in mind that cheaper products may not be as effective as more expensive ones. Look for products that offer a good balance of quality and affordability.
By considering these factors, you can choose the best probiotic product for BV that meets your needs and helps restore balance to your vaginal flora.
Frequently Asked Questions What are the most effective strains of probiotics for managing BV?Research suggests that Lactobacillus crispatus, Lactobacillus jensenii, and Lactobacillus gasseri are the most effective strains of probiotics for managing BV. These strains help restore the natural balance of bacteria in the vagina and prevent the overgrowth of harmful bacteria.
How long should one expect to take probiotics before seeing improvements in BV symptoms?The duration of probiotic treatment for BV can vary depending on the severity of symptoms and individual factors. However, studies have shown that improvements in BV symptoms can be seen within 2-3 weeks of taking probiotics regularly.
Can probiotics be used concurrently for both BV and yeast infections?Yes, certain strains of probiotics can be used concurrently for both BV and yeast infections. Lactobacillus acidophilus and Bifidobacterium bifidum are two strains that have been shown to be effective for both conditions.
Are there specific probiotic brands recommended by health professionals for BV?While there are no specific probiotic brands that have been recommended by health professionals for BV, it is important to choose a high-quality probiotic that contains the strains mentioned above. Look for products that are third-party tested for purity and potency.
Is it beneficial to use oral probiotics or to apply them directly for BV treatment?Both oral and topical probiotics have been shown to be effective for BV treatment. Oral probiotics help restore the balance of bacteria throughout the body, while topical probiotics can be applied directly to the vagina to help restore vaginal flora.
Does regular intake of probiotics contribute to overall vaginal health and prevent BV?Regular intake of probiotics can contribute to overall vaginal health and help prevent BV. Probiotics help maintain a healthy balance of bacteria in the vagina, which can prevent the overgrowth of harmful bacteria that can lead to BV.
Antibiotics In Pregnancy - Are They Safe?
In a nutshellSome antibiotics are not safe for pregnant women to take
The expert viewAntibiotics are used to treat bacterial infections and while some are perfectly safe for use by pregnant (or breastfeeding) women, others are not.
Our GP Dr Philippa Kaye says that "whether or not you are pregnant it is important that you only take antibiotics when a doctor feels that it is necessary" and that you should always finish the entire course of medication.
"Some antibiotics are safe in pregnancy and others are not; some are safe for breastfeeding and others are not. As with any medication in pregnancy do tell your doctor that you are pregnant so an appropriate pregnancy safe antibiotic can be prescribed," she says.
Types of antibiotics
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Antibiotics can be broadly classified into six main groups, but there are hundreds of different antibiotics out there – so it's vitally important that you only take antibiotics that have been prescribed specifically for you by your doctor.
Penicillin - Penicillin is widely used to treat certain infections such as skin infections, chest infections and urinary tract infections and includes drugs like amoxicillin and flucloxacillin.
Cephalosporins - Cephalosporins are used for serious infections like septicaemia and meningitis and include drugs like cefalexin and cefixime. If you are allergic to penicillin you may also be allergic to cephalosporins.
Aminoglycosides - Aminoglycosides are a type of antibiotic that used to be widely prescribed until it was found that they could cause both damage to hearing and the kidneys. Because of this, they tend now to be used only to treat very serious illnesses such as meningitis.
Tetracyclines - Tetracyclines are commonly used to treat moderate to severe acne and rosacea, which causes flushing of the skin and spots. They are not usually recommended for pregnant or breastfeeding women.
Macrolides - Macrolides are a type of antibiotic that can be used for lung and chest infections and can be an alternative for people with a penicillin allergy or to treat penicillin-resistant strains of bacteria. Recent research by Great Ormond Street Hospital in London found that taking macrolide antibiotics in pregnancy may lead to an increased risk of a baby developing cerebral palsy, or epilepsy, later in life.
Fluoroquinolones - Fluoroquinolones are the newest type of antibiotic and can be used to treat a wide range of infections. But, unfortunately, they are not suitable for use by pregnant or breastfeeding women, according to the NHS.
Dr Kaye adds: "The most commonly used antibiotics are probably penicillins, cephalosporins and macrolides. A commonly used antibiotic for urinary tract infections is trimethoprim - this is not safe in pregnancy so for a UTI in pregnancy unless you are pencillin-allergic amoxicillin is generally used. Or for acne - tetracyclines are often used - however these are NOT safe in pregnancy."
She advises that the critical thing is to make sure your doctor knows you are pregnant, so an "appropriate and pregnancy-safe antibiotic can be prescribed".
Mums on our forum say"I'm on antibiotics for a throat infection and I can't sleep because I can't breathe through my nose! I am so used to being able to take the maximum dose of ibuprofen and decongestant so I can keep going and not have to resort to going to bed, it hits me hard when I have a bump and can take nothing. I don't do being ill!" Nicolette
"I've been in and out of hospital with this [kidney infection] as it's lead to bad infections and the pain's been so bad I've needed morphine injections in my leg. Now I'm on a constant antibiotic I've to take every night." Baby_mama23
Is It Safe To Take Antibiotics While Pregnant?
As with any systemic infections, there is the risk that it might send
you into early labour. This is greatest if you have a fever and are
quite unwell with it.
Once the infection is under control, the chance of
problems for the baby are much lower. Once you have completed the course of antibiotics, there is a
possibility that you might be affected again by the same bug which
caused the first infection.
Your doctor may well suggest that you have a
urine test every month until your baby is born to rule this out.
Most antibiotics are not harmful for the pregnancy and the risk of an
untreated infection is much greater than any theoretical risk of the
treatment.
Having said this, it is always important that your doctor is
aware that you are pregnant when prescribing anything. There are a few
specific drugs which can be problematic, such as tetracyclines.
There are also analgesics which may safely be used during pregnancy.
Paracetamol has been around for a long time and is widely recognised as
being quite safe at standard does - 1g four -hourly.
Codeine-based
tablets are sometimes prescribed, including co-codamol or
dihydrocodeine, though these can lead to constipation.
Non-steroidal
anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as Ibuprofen are best avoided,
particularly towards the end of the pregnancy, as they can have an effect
on the baby's heart circulation.
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