Did you know probiotics support vaginal balance?

What are probiotics and what are the benefits?

So, what are probiotics really? Probiotics are regarded as live bacteria that are able to provide health benefits to the host. They are ingested through foods or supplements and are known to adhere to the bowel wall.

The word ‘probiotics’ itself is born from the marriage of two Latin words pro and biota, which together mean ‘for life’; it’s a fitting definition, considering your body contains such a huge volume of microorganisms – this number is thought to outnumber your body’s cell count by ten-fold.

Many of us are aware of the benefits of probiotics in the bowel, but we now know that certain strains of probiotics taken orally are able to survive the gastro-intestinal tract and ascend into the vagina from the rectum.

What are different types of probiotic foods?

If you are looking for foods that contain probiotics or assist in the production of ‘good’ bacteria you won’t have to look far.

Here are some but certainly not all of the best probiotic foods:

• Yoghurt: Many of the yoghurts you buy at the supermarket contain probiotics. Read the label and if you see that the yoghurt contains live cultures, then that means it contains probiotics
• Sauerkraut and other fermented foods. Fermented foods are high in organic acid, which supports the growth of good bacteria. Kombucha and natto (fermented soybeans) are also a good source
• Apple cider vinegar
• Brine cured olives
• Sourdough bread
• Gherkins
• Cottage cheese

A probiotic supplement that helps promote and balance good vaginal bacteria may also be of benefit.

How probiotics contribute to a healthy vaginal balance

Within the vaginal ecosystem there is a delicate balance between hormones, bacteria and acidity levels. Vaginal infections can occur when the dominant bacteria in the vagina, Lactobacilli, become overtaken by other bacteria or fungal micro-organisms.

Lactobacilli are typically the most common bacteria in the vagina. They produce lactic acid, which prevents the growth of other harmful bacteria. Common predisposing factors that can alter the vaginal flora include:

• Certain medications
• Increased hormone levels
• Poor immune system health
• New sexual partners

Healthy vaginal flora, dominated by Lactobacilli, act as a first line of defence preventing infectious agents from causing damage. Probiotics, particularly Lactobacilli in the vagina, are believed to work in the following ways:

• Production of lactic acid, keeping the vaginal environment acidic. The acid environment makes it difficult for ‘bad’ bugs to grow
• Production of hydrogen peroxide by Lactobacilli makes a harsh environment for a nasty micro-organism, decreasing the likelihood of them thriving
• Lactobacilli can prevent other organisms from attaching to the vaginal wall and taking hold. It can also compete with and displace other micro-organisms that have already adhered to the vaginal wall
• Probiotics are also thought to stimulate the host’s immune system and activate cells to kill off ‘bad’ micro-organisms

Keep your vaginal flora in check

Here are some ways to prevent vaginal infection and encourage healthy vaginal flora:

• Choose underwear made from natural fibres which are able to breath. This helps to prevent fungus from thriving
• Avoid perfumed products such as feminine deodorant sprays, soap and toilet paper, as they can alter the flora in the vagina
• Wipe from front to back when going to the toilet, as this may help to prevent the spread of micro-organisms from the anus

Did you know?

There are more than 80 species of Lactobacilli that live in the bowel and vagina!

Read more about Womens’ health.