Vaginal yeast infection
Metronidazole Vaginal - Uses, Side Effects, And More
Who should not use vaginal metronidazole?Allergies to Ingredients. People who are allergic to any of the following should not use vaginal metronidazole.
Drug Interactions. Vaginal metronidazole should not be used while you are using certain other medicines. Before using vaginal metronidazole, tell your healthcare provider about any prescription or over-the-counter (OTC) medicines, vitamins/minerals, herbal products, and other supplements you are using. See the Interactions section for more details.
Alcohol. Potentially serious side effects can occur if vaginal metronidazole is used with either foods or drinks that contain alcohol. Do not drink alcohol or consume foods that contain a type of alcohol called propylene glycol while using vaginal metronidazole. See the Interactions section for more details.
What should I know about vaginal metronidazole before using it?Do not use vaginal metronidazole unless it has been prescribed to you by a healthcare provider. Use it as prescribed.
Do not share vaginal metronidazole with other people, even if they have the same condition as you. It may harm them.
Keep vaginal metronidazole out of the reach of children.
Do not have sex or use vaginal products like tampons or douches when using vaginal metronidazole.
Vaginal metronidazole is only for use in the vagina. If vaginal metronidazole gets in your eyes, splash your eyes with cool water and call your healthcare provider.
What should I tell my healthcare provider before using vaginal metronidazole?Tell your healthcare provider about all of your health conditions and any prescription or over-the-counter (OTC) medicines, vitamins/minerals, herbal products, and other supplements you are using. This will help them determine if vaginal metronidazole is right for you.
In particular, make sure that you discuss any of the following.
Nervous System Problems. Tell your healthcare provider if you have any nervous system diseases like seizures or a condition called peripheral neuropathy before using vaginal metronidazole.
Other Medicines and Supplements. Vaginal metronidazole may interact with other medicines and supplements. Before using vaginal metronidazole, tell your healthcare provider about any prescription or over-the-counter (OTC) medicines, vitamins/minerals, herbal products, and other supplements you are using. See the Interactions section below for more details.
Pregnancy. It is not known if or how vaginal metronidazole could affect pregnancy or harm an unborn baby. Tell your healthcare provider if you are or plan to become pregnant. Your healthcare provider will advise you if you should use vaginal metronidazole while you are pregnant or trying to get pregnant.
Breastfeeding. Vaginal metronidazole passes into breast milk. Tell your healthcare provider if you are breastfeeding or plan to breastfeed. You may decide to pump your breastmilk and discard it while using vaginal metronidazole and for 2 days after you finish using it. During this time, you may feed your baby previously stored breastmilk or infant formula.
Top 8 Best Probiotics For Vaginal Health In 2024
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All women should prioritize optimal vaginal health, and probiotics can play a significant role in accomplishing this. These advantageous live bacteria and yeast are chiefly vital for our bodies, predominantly for our digestive system. More so, the beneficial bacteria in probiotics can aid in preserving a balanced bacterial ecosystem within the vagina, which is essential in preventing infections and fostering overall vaginal health.
When it comes to choosing the best probiotics for vaginal health, there are a few critical things to consider. Firstly, the type of bacteria strains present in the probiotic supplement is crucial. Lactobacillus is the most commonly found bacteria in the vagina, so it's essential to choose a probiotic supplement that contains this strain. Additionally, the number of colony-forming units (CFUs) present in the supplement is also important. A higher number of CFUs can ensure that the probiotic supplement is more effective.
We spent hours researching and testing various probiotic supplements to identify the best ones for vaginal health. In the following sections, we will discuss the top probiotic supplements that can help maintain a healthy vaginal balance and prevent infections.
Best Probiotics for Vaginal HealthWe understand that vaginal health is important to every woman, and maintaining a healthy balance of good bacteria is crucial for overall well-being. That's why we've researched and compiled a list of the best probiotics for vaginal health. Our recommendations are based on product quality, customer reviews, and expert opinions. Whether you're looking to prevent or treat infections, or simply boost your immune system, these probiotics are worth considering. Check out our top picks below.
1. Dr. Formulated Probiotics for Women & PrebioticsIf you're looking for a high-quality probiotic that's specifically formulated for women's health, we highly recommend Dr. Formulated Probiotics for Women & Prebiotics by Garden of Life. This product is designed to support digestive, immune, and vaginal health with 50 billion CFU of 16 diverse probiotic strains, including L. Reuteri and L. Fermentum, which have been clinically studied to promote women's health.
Pros
Cons
We've been taking Dr. Formulated Probiotics for Women & Prebiotics for several weeks now, and we've noticed a significant improvement in our digestive and vaginal health. The capsules are easy to swallow and can be taken with or without food. We also appreciate that the capsules can be opened and contents can be taken directly with water or juice, which makes it convenient for those who prefer probiotic drinks.
Overall, we highly recommend Dr. Formulated Probiotics for Women & Prebiotics by Garden of Life for anyone looking for a high-quality probiotic specifically formulated for women's health. It's expertly formulated by David Perlmutter, MD for women's health and Third-Party Certified Non-GMO, Gluten-Free and Carbon Neutral.
2. Nature's Way Probiotic Pearls for WomenIf you're looking for a daily probiotic that supports vaginal and digestive health, Nature's Way Probiotic Pearls for Women could be the solution you've been searching for. After using it for some time, we believe it's a good choice for women who want to maintain a healthy balance of flora in their vaginal and urinary tracts.
Pros
Cons
In our experience, Nature's Way Probiotic Pearls for Women are easy to take and don't cause any digestive discomfort. We appreciate that they're gluten-free and don't contain any yeast-derived ingredients, wheat, salt, dairy, or artificial colors. They're a good option for women who want to support their vaginal and urinary tract health as well as their digestive and immune health.
Overall, we recommend Nature's Way Probiotic Pearls for Women for those who want a convenient and effective way to care for themselves from the inside out.
3. AZO Complete Feminine Balance Daily Probiotics for WomenIf you are looking for a probiotic to support your vaginal health, AZO Complete Feminine Balance Daily Probiotics for Women is a great option to consider.
Pros
Cons
We have been using AZO Complete Feminine Balance Daily Probiotics for Women for a while now and have noticed an improvement in our vaginal health. The probiotics help to restore a balanced PH, which is essential for maintaining vaginal health. We appreciate that the ingredients are naturally sourced, and the product is sugar-free and gluten-free.
The multi-strain probiotic blend in AZO Complete Feminine Balance Daily Probiotics for Women is clinically proven to work in just seven days. We also like that it is safe to take during pregnancy, which is a big plus for expecting mothers.
However, we did notice that taking the probiotics can cause our periods to come on. It is also important to note that results may take some time to see, and some users may experience discomfort.
Overall, we recommend AZO Complete Feminine Balance Daily Probiotics for Women for those looking to support their vaginal health. It is a convenient and easy-to-swallow capsule that can be taken at any time of the day, with or without food.
4. WellYeah 25 Billion Probiotics Women + Zinc 50mg Gummies BundleIf you're looking for an easy-to-take probiotic supplement that can help maintain urinary tract health and support your immune system, WellYeah Prebiotic and Probiotics is a great choice.
Pros
Cons
We've been using WellYeah Prebiotic and Probiotics for a few weeks now, and we're impressed with how easy it is to take. The chewable gummy has a pleasant berry flavor that makes it easy to swallow, and we appreciate that it's GMO-free, gluten-free, nut-free, and suitable for vegetarians.
One of the things we like about this supplement is that it contains 25 billion probiotics and 12 strains, which makes it more effective than some other probiotic supplements on the market. We also appreciate that it includes cranberry and D-Mannose, which can help maintain urinary tract health.
Overall, we think WellYeah Prebiotic and Probiotics is a great choice if you're looking for a probiotic supplement that's easy to take and can help support your immune system and urinary tract health.
5. Garden of Life RAW Probiotics Vaginal CareWe highly recommend Garden of Life RAW Probiotics Vaginal Care for anyone looking for a reliable probiotic supplement to promote vaginal and urinary tract health.
Pros
Cons
Garden of Life RAW Probiotics Vaginal Care is a high-potency, RAW, whole food probiotic formula that contains no binders or fillers and no carriers. The uncooked, untreated, unadulterated probiotics are harvested directly from Bulgarian yogurt and Eastern European wild kefir, and include yeast-digesting enzymes such as cellulase and fruits and veggies to support vaginal flora balance and urinary tract health.
The Vaginal Care Blend includes eight clinically studied probiotic strains for yeast balance, urinary tract and vaginal health. The probiotic potency is guaranteed through expiration, so you know you're getting the full 50 billion live probiotic cultures in every capsule.
Overall, we found Garden of Life RAW Probiotics Vaginal Care to be a reliable and effective probiotic supplement for promoting vaginal and urinary tract health. While the price point may be higher than some other probiotic supplements on the market, we believe the quality and potency of the product is worth the investment.
6. WellYeah Prebiotic and Probiotics for Women and MenIf you're looking for a probiotic that can help maintain your vaginal, digestive, and immune system health, WellYeah Prebiotic and Probiotics for Women and Men is worth considering.
Pros
Cons
We've been using WellYeah Prebiotic and Probiotics for Women and Men for a few weeks now, and we're impressed with the results. The gummies are easy to take, taste great, and have helped us maintain better balance and feel more focused and energetic.
One of the things we like best about these probiotics is that they contain 25 billion probiotics and 12 strains to help maintain natural flora and digestive balance for overall gut health. The addition of cranberry and D-Mannose also makes these gummies particularly effective for maintaining urinary tract health.
While we've had a positive experience with these probiotics, we should note that they may not work for everyone. Additionally, some users may not like the taste of the berry-flavored gummies, and the product may be expensive for some budgets.
Overall, we would recommend WellYeah Prebiotic and Probiotics for Women and Men to anyone looking for a high-quality probiotic supplement that can help maintain vaginal, digestive, and immune system health.
7. AZO Dual Protection, Urinary + Vaginal SupportWe highly recommend AZO Dual Protection for those looking for a probiotic that can provide extra protection from the common cycle of urinary and vaginal issues many women face.
Pros
Cons
We have personally used AZO Dual Protection and found that it effectively supports urinary and vaginal health. The synergistic blend of prebiotics and probiotics helps to maintain a healthy feminine microbiome, which is crucial for overall health. Additionally, the D-Mannose helps to flush the urinary tract and reduce bacteria adhesion, providing extra protection against common issues.
While some users may experience minor side effects such as gas or bloating, these are typically temporary and subside after a few days. However, it is important to note that individual results may vary, and the product may not work for everyone.
Overall, we believe that AZO Dual Protection is a great choice for those looking for a probiotic that can provide dual protection for urinary and vaginal health. While the price is slightly higher than other probiotics on the market, the clinical strength support and high-quality ingredients make it worth the investment.
8. Designs for Health Vaginal Probiotic & UT Support BundleIf you're looking for a probiotic that supports both vaginal and urinary tract health, Designs for Health Vaginal Probiotic & UT Support Bundle is an excellent choice.
Pros
Cons
We've been using this bundle for a few weeks now, and we've noticed a significant improvement in our vaginal and urinary tract health. The ProbioMed Women Vaginal Probiotic is highly concentrated, with 25 billion colony-forming units (CFUs) per capsule, and features ten clinically studied strains that promote a healthy vaginal pH balance and microbial balance in the vaginal and GI tracts. We appreciate that the capsules are delayed-release, which helps ensure that the probiotics survive in the stomach and are released in the lower GI tract.
UT Synergy features Hibiscus sabdariffa, which is high in certain organic acids and polyphenols that have been shown to have microbial inhibition and bacterial anti-adhesive properties. We also appreciate that this formula has mild diuretic properties to support healthy kidney function. The addition of D-Mannose, Nettle, and other ingredients round out this powerful formula.
While the bundle may be more expensive than purchasing each product separately, we think it's worth it for the convenience and the benefits to our vaginal and urinary tract health. However, it's essential to note that the high concentration of probiotics may not be suitable for everyone, and it may take some time to see results. Overall, we highly recommend Designs for Health Vaginal Probiotic & UT Support Bundle for anyone looking to support their vaginal and urinary tract health.
Buying GuideWhen it comes to choosing the best probiotics for vaginal health, there are a few things to consider. Here are some features to look for when shopping for a quality probiotic:
Strain DiversityLook for a probiotic that contains a variety of strains, including Lactobacillus acidophilus, Lactobacillus crispatus, Lactobacillus jensenii, and Lactobacillus rhamnosus. These strains are known to promote vaginal health and prevent infections.
CFU CountCFU stands for colony-forming units, which is a measure of the number of live bacteria in a probiotic. Look for a product with at least 10 billion CFUs per serving.
Shelf StabilityChoose a probiotic that is shelf-stable and does not require refrigeration. This will make it more convenient to take and store.
Other ConsiderationsOther factors to consider include the form of the probiotic (capsule, tablet, powder, etc.), any additional ingredients (such as prebiotics), and the reputation of the manufacturer.
By considering these factors, you can choose a probiotic that is most likely to be effective in promoting vaginal health.
Frequently Asked Questions What are some benefits of taking probiotics for women's health?Probiotics can help maintain a healthy balance of bacteria in the vagina, which can help prevent yeast infections and bacterial vaginosis. They may also boost the immune system, improve digestion, and promote overall health.
Which probiotic is best for women over 50?There is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question, as different probiotics may work better for different individuals. However, probiotics that contain strains such as Lactobacillus acidophilus and Bifidobacterium lactis may be particularly beneficial for women over 50.
How does Garden of Life Women's Probiotic compare to other probiotics?Garden of Life Women's Probiotic is a high-quality probiotic supplement that contains a variety of beneficial strains, including Lactobacillus acidophilus and Bifidobacterium lactis. While there are many other good probiotic supplements on the market, Garden of Life Women's Probiotic is a popular choice due to its high quality and effectiveness.
Can probiotics improve gut health in women?Yes, probiotics can help improve gut health in women by promoting the growth of beneficial bacteria in the gut. This can help improve digestion, reduce inflammation, and boost the immune system.
Do any probiotics help with weight loss in women?While probiotics alone are unlikely to cause significant weight loss, they may help support weight loss efforts by improving digestion and reducing inflammation. Some studies have also suggested that certain strains of probiotics may help reduce belly fat.
What are some natural sources of probiotics for women?Some natural sources of probiotics for women include fermented foods such as yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut, kimchi, and tempeh. These foods contain beneficial bacteria that can help promote gut health and overall well-being.
10 Best Probiotics For Women, According To Experts
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Our team thoroughly researches and evaluates the recommendations we make on our site. To establish that the product manufacturers addressed safety and efficacy standards, we:Was this helpful?
From less bloating to fewer UTIs, probiotics offer a range of potential benefits to women. Here are the products our dietitians recommend.
Probiotics are made up of healthy bacteria and yeast and support important functions of your gut microbiome, including nutrient absorption and immunity. They may also be useful for a range of digestive conditions.
Importantly, probiotics offer benefits specifically for women, such as supporting urinary tract and vaginal bacterial balance and protecting against bacterial infection. They may even help with acne.
Read on to learn how probiotics can support women's health and to see our recommendations.
Why we like it: Garden of Life Women's Probiotic wins our vote for best overall because it's formulated specifically to support women's health, with 16 strains of probiotics and 50 billion colony-forming units (CFU) per serving, in addition to prebiotics.
More specifically, it contains strains such as Lactobacillus acidophilus, which may be beneficial to treat and prevent infections such as bacterial vaginosis.
It also contains a blend of prebiotic fiber, though this may not be suitable for everyone as they may intensify digestive symptoms in some people, such as those with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), though the research on this is mixed.
This product also contains a greater variety of strains than other products on our list.
While some studies suggest that having multiple strains of probiotics in a supplement could enhance the biological activity of the probiotics, other research has found that multistrain supplements are not significantly more effective than single-strain probiotics. Therefore, more studies are needed.
Pros & consUse code "HEALTHLINE20" for 20% off.
Healthline's reviewWhy we like it: We love mindbodygreen's probiotic for weight loss goals as well as for targeting bloating and digestive health.
While there is no research directly assessing this probiotics effectiveness for weight loss, it does contain Lactobacillus acidophilus NCFM and Bifidobacterium lactis HN019, which have been associated with decreases in body fat mass when used alongside an increase in fiber intake.
Other research suggests that another strain included in this product, Bifidobacterium lactis B420, may also help weight loss.
What's more, some of the strains included have also been associated with improved bowel movement and prevention of the overgrowth of bacteria in the digestive tract to help keep your gut healthy.
Plus, it's shelf-stable and tested by third-party labs throughout the manufacturing process to ensure purity, potency, and safety.
What our tester says"I was wowed with how gently regular this product made me!
"I did see and feel a reduction in bloating, and I lost an inch in the midsection, due to fat loss or bloating — I don't know and don't care! I was so pleased.
"The first thing I noticed, though, was my mood being boosted with the elevated gut microbiome. My anxiety deflated some, and my overall sense of well-being improved. It was so refreshing."
— Kristin Currin-Sheehan, Healthline multimedia editor
"I was wowed with how gently regular this product made me!
"I did see and feel a reduction in bloating, and I lost an inch in the midsection, due to fat loss or bloating — I don't know and don't care! I was so pleased.
"The first thing I noticed, though, was my mood being boosted with the elevated gut microbiome. My anxiety deflated some, and my overall sense of well-being improved. It was so refreshing."
— Kristin Currin-Sheehan, Healthline multimedia editor
Pros & consWhy we like it: HUM Nutrtion Private Party combines three strains of probiotics with cranberry extract to promote pH balance and a healthy vaginal microbiome.
Its star ingredient, Lactobacillus acidophilus, has been well studied for its ability to protect against vaginal pathogens to prevent issues like chronic vaginitis.
It also contains Lactobacillus rhamnosus and Lactobacillus reuteri, which may help reduce the growth of harmful fungi and bacteria in the vagina, according to some test-tube and animal studies.
What our tester says"I tested this product for about a month. I took the pill once a day with water, not with food, as directed.
"I can't speak to any real scientific facts here or test results, so I'm not sure if my pH levels were modified by this supplement. However, I can say that I didn't have any issues with taking it or any impacts after the month on it, so it didn't hurt me in any way."
— Christy Snyder, Healthline editor
"I tested this product for about a month. I took the pill once a day with water, not with food, as directed.
"I can't speak to any real scientific facts here or test results, so I'm not sure if my pH levels were modified by this supplement. However, I can say that I didn't have any issues with taking it or any impacts after the month on it, so it didn't hurt me in any way."
— Christy Snyder, Healthline editor
Pros & consWhy we like it: Ritual's Synbiotic+ contains postbiotics in addition to prebiotics and probiotics, making it a well-rounded probiotic for gut health.
In particular, it provides Bifidobacterium animalis ssp. lactis, a probiotic strain that has been shown to help strengthen the gut barrier and promote regularity.
It also contains Lactobacillus rhamnosus, which can reduce several symptoms of IBS, including bloating and stomach pain.
Thanks to the inclusion of these two specific strains and prebiotics — which can provide fuel for the beneficial bacteria in the digestive tract — this is one of the best probiotics available for maintaining overall gut health.
Plus, according to our reviewer, it's an effective and convenient option for those looking to improve their gut health without taking multiple pills or capsules.
Learn more about Ritual and Synbiotic+ in our comprehensive review.
What our tester says"I took this supplement with my lunch every day and found it to be a nice minty end to the meal. The capsule has a peppermint taste/aftertaste and basically freshens your breath as you take it!
"Gut-wise, it seemed to reduce my bloating, which is an occasional issue for me, and I had no bathroom issues or adjustment time period when starting to take this.
"The flavor is fantastic, the ingredients and creation process are clear on Ritual's site, and it's truly an all-encompassing gut health solution in my opinion."
— Christy Snyder, Healthline editor
"I took this supplement with my lunch every day and found it to be a nice minty end to the meal. The capsule has a peppermint taste/aftertaste and basically freshens your breath as you take it!
"Gut-wise, it seemed to reduce my bloating, which is an occasional issue for me, and I had no bathroom issues or adjustment time period when starting to take this.
"The flavor is fantastic, the ingredients and creation process are clear on Ritual's site, and it's truly an all-encompassing gut health solution in my opinion."
— Christy Snyder, Healthline editor
Pros & consWhy we like it: Seed DS-01 Daily Synbiotic makes it easy to stay consistent with its monthly subscription, it also prioritizes sustainability with its refillable glass jars.
Members can easily change or cancel their subscriptions online as needed.
Each 2-capsule serving provides 24 clinically studied probiotic strains, including Lactiplantibacillus plantarum and Bifidobacterium lactis, which may be beneficial for heart health.
It also contains 53.6 billion Active Fluorescent Units (AFU), which is an alternative measure used to estimate the number of bacterial cells in a supplement.
What our tester saysHealthline editor Kelle Walsh tested Seed for a little under 2 weeks. She was impressed with the biodegradable packing, the supplements stored in a refillable dark glass container, to protect them from light, and the extra travel-size container.
She also liked learning about the abundant bacterial strains included and the composition of capsule, with its prebiotic outer shell encasing the smaller probiotic capsule.
Within the first few days she experienced some mild gastrointestinal distress and a general loss of appetite, which can be common.
"I wasn't surprised by these symptoms," she said. "I knew that suddenly ingesting a bunch of live bacteria would likely cause some reaction. Seed also warns of this: An immediate physiological reaction is a sign that our probiotics are viable and attuning to your system."
But after other physical discomforts appeared over the next week, she decided to stop taking the probiotic.
Walsh said she believes that Seed makes a thoughtful, well-made product. But it may not be for everyone.
"If your doctor recommends you take a pre- and probiotic, I think Seed is worth consideration," she said.
Healthline editor Kelle Walsh tested Seed for a little under 2 weeks. She was impressed with the biodegradable packing, the supplements stored in a refillable dark glass container, to protect them from light, and the extra travel-size container.
She also liked learning about the abundant bacterial strains included and the composition of capsule, with its prebiotic outer shell encasing the smaller probiotic capsule.
Within the first few days she experienced some mild gastrointestinal distress and a general loss of appetite, which can be common.
"I wasn't surprised by these symptoms," she said. "I knew that suddenly ingesting a bunch of live bacteria would likely cause some reaction. Seed also warns of this: An immediate physiological reaction is a sign that our probiotics are viable and attuning to your system."
But after other physical discomforts appeared over the next week, she decided to stop taking the probiotic.
Walsh said she believes that Seed makes a thoughtful, well-made product. But it may not be for everyone.
"If your doctor recommends you take a pre- and probiotic, I think Seed is worth consideration," she said.
Pros & consWhy we like it: Renew Life combines quality with affordability with its probiotic blend of 12 strains, chosen specifically to reflect the natural diversity in the gut and restore digestive harmony.
It also contains probiotic strains, including Lactobacillus rhamnosus, which may help reduce some IBS-related symptoms, and Lactobacillus reuteri, which may help protect against vaginitis, though more research is needed.
While this product is not third-party tested, Renew Life notes that the supplements are produced in facilities that adhere to current good manufacturing practices (CGMPs).
Pros & consWhey we like it: Ora Lady Bugs is designed specifically for women and contains six unique strains of probiotics, plus a blend of prebiotics, intended to support digestive health and maintain a healthy vagina.
In particular, it contains Lactobacillus plantarum, which may increase the number of beneficial bacteria in the vagina and help prevent yeast infections.
Several of the other probiotic strains it contains, including Lactobacillus acidophilus and Lactobacillus plantarum, have also been shown to reduce inflammation in human and animal studies.
Ora also provides a certificate of analysis (COA) for each product, which shows detailed testing results.
Pros & consWhy we like it: For those who dislike swallowing pills, OLLY Probiotic and Prebiotic gummies are a tasty, easy to take alternative.
They contain a blend of prebiotics along with effective strains of probiotics like Bacillus coagulans, which has been shown to reduce symptoms and improve quality of life for people
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