Probiotics are living microorganisms that provide numerous benefits to the body, including aiding in digestion and supporting a healthy immune system. When microorganisms in the gut are in balance, nutrients are better absorbed, bowel movements become regular, and immunity is improved.
Probiotics are also essential for vaginal health and understanding why is key to maintaining overall well-being. When it comes to vaginal health specifically, probiotics help restore the balance of bacteria in the vagina, which can help reduce symptoms associated with Bacterial vaginosis (BV), Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs), and Yeast Infections.
How Do Probiotics Support Vaginal Health?
When beneficial bacteria levels are low, women may experience irritation, itching, or an unpleasant odor from their vagina. Studies have found that supplementing with probiotic capsules or consuming foods high in probiotics helps restore normal vaginal pH levels and reduces inflammation and other symptoms.
Additionally, some studies suggest that taking probiotic supplements alongside antibiotics leads to better absorption of the medications and reduces antibiotic-associated side effects such as yeast infections. In this article, we will discuss some of the best probiotics out there for vaginal health.
Let’s go over a few of the best overall probiotics that have been shown to help women restore vaginal health.
Best Overall Vaginal Probiotics
Pro-Fem 
The quality of the probiotic you choose should be of utmost importance. When it comes to HPD Rx’s Pro-Fem product, quality is what they are known for, which is why this would be my #1 top-rated choice. HPD Rx products are formulated by physicians and backed by science. Pro-Fem is a probiotic that is specifically designed to target vaginal health. It contains probiotic strains known as Lactobacillus Rhamosus and Lactobacillus Reuteri, which are known to colonize and protect the entire vaginal tract.
Pro-Fem has been clinically proven to improve urinary tract health, balance yeast, and restore proper pH levels in the vagina. And – the best part is, it only takes about 7 days for you to be able to notice the effects! A 30-day supply of Pro-Fem costs $26.99 and is available for purchase on the HPD Rx website or on Amazon.
Pro-Fem is great for those with any allergies or dietary restrictions, as it is gluten-free, soy-free, non-GMO, and vegetarian. You will also see the swarm of positive reviews that happy customers have left. “My OB/GYN highly recommended Pro-Fem for recurring UTIs. Within the first week, I noticed a big difference and in two weeks my issues were resolved.”
Metagenics
Metagenics UltraFlora Women’s Oral Daily Probiotic is another product specifically designed to promote vaginal and urinary tract health in women. Utilizing a blend of probiotic strains, this natural supplement helps balance the body’s microbiome for improved overall health. Similar to Pro-Fem, Metagenics probiotic is formulated with Lactobacillus Rhamosus and Lactobacillus Reuteri.
About 79% of women who tried this product reported having improved quality of life and 86% said they would recommend it to a family member or friend. It is available in a convenient capsule form that can be taken daily with or without meals. It is a bit pricier, coming in at $38.50 for a 30-day supply. It can be purchased on Amazon.
Bonafide
Bonafide Clairvee vaginal probiotic is an innovative and natural solution to provide hormone-free, drug-free relief from vaginal itching and discharge due to hormonal fluctuations. Combining the latest scientific advances with natural ingredients, Bonafide Clairvee helps women find balance and restore their intimate health.
Additionally, this powerful probiotic relieves inflammation and supports healthy tissue growth in the vagina. It is a great option for women who have to regularly rely on vaginal wipes and washes for odor.
In addition to its hormone-free, drug-free formula, Clairvee is gentle on the body and free from harmful side effects. In fact, 88% of women who took Clairvee reported that they remained free of vaginal itching and discharge after 4 months of taking it. Clairvee comes in a bottle with a 15-day supply and is meant to be taken once daily for 15 consecutive days each month. It is a bit pricier than others, with a price tag of $59 on Amazon.
Best Powder
Ora
For those with difficulties swallowing capsules or just prefer to blend their probiotics in smoothies or juices, a powdered probiotic may be the best choice for you.
Ora’s powdered probiotic is uniquely blended with 6 probiotic strains and contains 16 billion probiotics per serving. It also contains a blend of prebiotic fibers, which helps feed healthy bacteria in the digestive system. This blend promotes better digestion as well as better absorption of vitamins and minerals from food sources.
The strains in Ora’s powdered probiotic are known to naturally colonize the vagina and urinary tract while supporting the digestive system at the same time. This probiotic is 100% vegan, dairy-free, gluten-free, non-GMO, and free of any artificial ingredients. Ora’s probiotic costs $37.99 for a 30-day supply and comes with a 60-day happiness guarantee!
Best For Digestion
Klaire Labs
If you are someone who struggles with recurrent gastrointestinal issues, a powerful and potent probiotic may be necessary for you. I’m going to break down a popular product that is shown to replenish the GI tract with the microorganisms it needs.
Klaire Labs Interfase Plus is a supplement that supports a healthy gut flora and provides biofilm and detox support. It contains an anti-biofilm enzyme blend combining EDTA with multiple digestive enzymes to break down biofilms (dangerous slimes that allow harmful bacteria to burrow), allowing probiotic bacteria to colonize the GI tract. Klaire Labs Interfase Plus helps promote a healthy gut microbiome while supporting digestion and nutrient absorption.
Klaire Labs Interfase Plus is designed for anyone looking for strong GI support in their daily health regimen. It can help those who suffer from bloating or discomfort after meals or constipation caused by an imbalance of intestinal microbes. Unlike the other supplements discussed in this article, the primary focus of this probiotic is not intended to support vaginal health. It aims to target the GI tract first, which may in turn help restore the vaginal microbiota.
This product is not meant to be taken on a long-term basis and should be discussed with your physician prior to starting. Since it contains digestive enzymes, it may be taken multiple times throughout the day between meals. A 60-count pack costs $24.88 and can be purchased on Amazon.
Choose The Right Product For You
When it comes to choosing the right probiotic for vaginal health, it’s important to consider factors such as dosage and type of probiotic strains used. Different strains have been shown to provide varying benefits when taken regularly over time. Additionally, some may interact with other medications or treatments that you may already be taking; therefore, reviewing your specific needs and speaking with your physician is key.
References:
Mei, Z., & Li, D. (2022). The role of probiotics in vaginal health. Frontiers in cellular and infection microbiology, 12, 963868. https://doi.org/10.3389/fcimb.2022.963868
