Will Taking Probiotics Help With Bv

How Do Probiotics Help

Probiotics are full of all the healthy bacteria that your body needs. These bacteria will then fight off the bad bacteria in your vagina, and readjust the imbalance the bad bacteria caused.

This will then reduce the chances of infections occurring and balance out the pH levels, which then makes the vagina a much more hospitable and healthy environment.

Swansons Probiotics For Daily Wellness

Image courtesy Swanson

Hectic lives can all team up to disrupt your natural balance. Supportive supplements such as Probiotic for Daily Wellness by Swanson Health help support general health with a higher population density in beneficial strains which will help restore harmony throughout your entire body.

Will Any Probiotic Help With Vaginal Health

There is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question it depends on the specific probiotic and the womans individual needs. However, most probiotics for vaginal health will help balance the good and bad bacteria in your vagina and may reduce the symptoms of vaginal infections and other vaginal issues.

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Bacterial Vaginosis Vs Yeast Infection

Despite the fact that yeast infections are talked about much more, they are the second most common cause of vaginal symptoms, beat out only by bacterial vaginosis.

So whats the difference between the symptoms of bacterial vaginosis and a yeast infection?

Common symptoms of a yeast infection include itchiness or burning in or around the vagina, and a white discharge that often looks like cottage cheese. This discharge is typically odorless and might have a yeasty smell .

This differs from the thin consistency and strong fishy odor of the discharge associated with bacterial vaginosis.

Of course, the best thing to do if you have any of these symptoms is to visit your healthcare provider who can perform an exam and testing to determine which of these infections you might have.

Q: What Causes Bacterial Vaginosis

A: The short answer is that we dont know.

However, BV seems to be associated with sex, though not as clearly as with a true sexually transmitted disease. Some women report having many episodes of BV when they are sexually active with one partner, but not with another partner. Others report getting BV over and over again during times when they arent having sex at all.

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What Exactly Is Bacterial Vaginosis

Bacterial vaginosis is a vaginal condition that creates a grey and watery discharge, which can smell unpleasant. It caused by an overgrowth of bad bacteria, known as pathogens.

In the same way that our gut microbiome is made up of a mixture of friendly probiotic bacteria, and a small number of harmful pathogenic bacteria, so too is the vaginal microbiome. When pathogens outnumber good bacteria in any microbiome, it is known as dysbiosis, which can lead to infection. You may like to read more about gut dysbiosis and how to address it in the article what is dysbiosis?

If you are diagnosed with BV, it is likely that your doctor will prescribe antibiotics to treat the infection. This may bring temporary relief however, over time the antibiotics can actually make dysbiosis worse. Read our article about taking probiotics with antibiotics.

BV is usually caused by an overgrowth of Gardnerella vaginalis, though Prevotella, Mycoplasma hominis, and Mobiluncus can also be implicated in BV infections. A healthy vagina contains plenty of bacteria from the Lactobacillus genus. Read this article to find out more about Lactobacillus.

Women are often unaware that they have BV, as in 50% of cases it does not produce symptoms. However, if left untreated it can lead to other complications, such as reduced fertility, increased risk of miscarriage, and reduced birthweights when pregnancy does occur.

Probiotics For Yeast Infections

If youre taking an antibiotic or experience chronic yeast infections, probiotic supplements may help prevent a yeast infection or even treat an existing one. Lactobacillus, the main bacteria found in healthy vaginal flora, may be especially effective at improving symptoms of a yeast infection and balancing out the bacteria and pH level of the vagina.

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A Solution Springs From Frustration

But sometimes women dont respond to the standard treatments and experience recurrent problems that leave them searching for solutions. Dr. Mitchell says that some women shes encountered are trying not only probiotic supplements, but also alternative treatments theyve found on the Internet. These include putting yogurt-soaked tampons, tea tree oil, and even garlic cloves into their vaginas in an effort to introduce beneficial bacteria. These solutions, she says, are not only ineffective but highly inadvisable.

Its true that a compound in garlic, allicin, has been shown to kill yeast in a laboratory. But you cannot put enough cloves of garlic in your vagina or take enough oral garlic capsules to achieve the same effect, says Dr. Mitchell. Tea tree oil also has no demonstrated benefit and can cause irritation. Yogurt-infused tampons dont work either. Many probiotic supplements and most yogurts do contain Lactobacillus bacteria, but its generally not the same type of Lactobacillus found in your vagina. L. crispatus and L. iners are the most common species found in the vagina. Most probiotics and yogurt contain other species, such as L. rhamnosus or L. acidophilus, which are more common in the gut.

Will Probiotics Cure Bv

The theory behind using probiotics to cure BV is that they can increase the number of good bacteria in the vagina, to help restore the natural floral balance and normalising the vaginal pH. In turn, this could treat BV and prevent its recurrence. Supporting this idea, a review published in the Journal of Lower Genital Tract Disease suggested that most studies carried out in this field have been in favour of probiotics in the treatment or prevention of BV, and no adverse effects have been reported. The researchers concluded that it may be helpful for women to take daily probiotic products.

However, not everyone is convinced. According to Dr Caroline Mitchell, assistant professor of obstetrics, gynaecology and reproductive biology at Harvard Medical School, there is scant evidence to support the effectiveness of treating BV with probiotics and many of the studies in this area have been poorly done.

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How To Cure Bacterial Vaginosis

There are different bacterial vaginosis tablets, creams, and gels available over-the-counter and by prescription from your doctor. Always consult your care provider and get a diagnosis to make sure that you need medication and are getting the right one.

FACT Asymptomatic bacterial vaginosis does not need treatment.

How Long Do Probiotics Take To Work For Bv

A review carried out at the Alfa Institute of Biomedical Sciences in Marousi, Greece highlighted trials which suggested that probiotic pessaries when used for 6 to 12 days, or probiotic tablets when taken orally for 2 months, cured BV and/or reduced recurrences of the condition. The study also found that using probiotics over these time periods resulted in an increase in Lactobacillus significantly more frequently than when placebos or no treatment were given. However, the review went on to point out that other trials have produced less positive findings.

Given the uncertainty surrounding how effective probiotics may be in treating BV, its impossible to give a definitive answer in terms of how long they may take to help relieve the infection.

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How Lengthy Do Probiotics Take To Work For Bv

A overview carried out on the Alfa Institute of Biomedical Sciences in Marousi, Greece highlighted trials which steered that probiotic pessaries when used for six to 12 days, or probiotic tablets when taken orally for two months, cured BV and/or lowered recurrences of the situation. The research additionally discovered that utilizing probiotics over these time durations resulted in a rise in Lactobacillus considerably extra ceaselessly than when placebos or no remedy got. Nevertheless, the overview went on to level out that different trials have produced much less optimistic findings.

Given the uncertainty surrounding how efficient probiotics could also be in treating BV, its not possible to offer a definitive reply by way of how lengthy they might take to assist relieve the an infection.

Bacterial Vaginosis Home Remedies

Some sources might suggest you to use home remedies for bacterial vaginosis. These may include rinsing the outer sex organs with vinegar or boric acid, or applying essential oils. Do not use home remedies to treat bacterial vaginosis. They dont work and can result in burns, damage to your genital organs, and infections.

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Gnc Probiotic Complex Daily Need

Image courtesy GNC

GNC is dedicated to providing consumers with access and information about whats inside their products, which means you know exactly how your body will react when taking GNC Daily Need Probiotic Complex.

The complex contains several strains of live active probiotics that may help maintain good health by influencing the balance in our natural flora population.

How To Take Probiotics

Most probiotics on the market for vaginal or women’s health are oral, which is a problem because “there’s very little data suggesting that taking a probiotic by mouth will impact the vaginal bacterial community,” says Caroline Mitchell, MD, MPH, the director of the Vulvovaginal Disorders Program at Massachusetts General Hospital.

Taking probiotics through a vaginal suppository is likely to be more effective, though research on products is still in the early stages, Mitchell says.

Lactin V, a product currently moving toward FDA approval, uses 2 x 109 colony forming units in each dose, which is similar to the doses used in current published studies. The manufacturers suggest taking using it daily for five days, starting two days after finishing antibiotic or antifungal courses, and then twice weekly for 3 months to renew your normal levels of good bacteria.

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Can I Take Probiotics To Get Pregnant

For many women who experience regular bouts of BV, they also experience trouble getting pregnant. Infertility rates continue to increase, largely because of vaginal health problems that go untreated. Many infertility specialists suggest women take care of their other health problems before trying to get pregnant probiotics can help there as well. They will regulate weight, help thyroid functions, and even solve some inhospitable vagina problems that some women face.

For more information about probiotics from BiOptimizers, CLICK HERE.

Lactobacillus Brevis Cd2 Lactobacillus Salivarius Fv2 And Lactobacillus Plantarum Fv9

In a rather small but well-designed double-blind, randomised, controlled trial2 34 women with BV received either a vaginal probiotic tablet or a placebo for 7 days. The probiotic contained at least 10 billion viable Lactobacilli in particular L. brevis CD2®, L. salivarius FV2®, and L. plantarum FV9®. The 2-week symptom relief rates were 61% in the active treatment group. When compared to 19% in the placebo group – these are astounding results!

Key takeaway

• Symptoms of BV have been demonstrated to be relieved by the probiotic strains Lactobacillus brevis CD2®, Lactobacillus salivarius FV2®, and Lactobacillus plantarum FV9®

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Antibiotic Bv Treatment Often Leads To Recurring Bv

The typical treatment for BV is antibiotics, and there are a variety of reliable antibiotic combinations that eliminate BV.

The problem is that the BV often comes back! Post-antibiotic recurrence of BV is almost expected. So far, doctors havent found a combination of antibiotics that always prevents BV from returning. This reinfection after antibiotic BV treatment has led scientists and many women to try probiotics to BV for goodand to have a lower chance of BV regrowth.

Probiotics are considered safe and should probably be taken both during antibiotic treatment, and after antibiotics, since they help maintain or regrow normal healthy bacteria after theyve been wiped out by the antibiotics.

Culturelle Digestive Daily Probiotic

Image courtesy Walmart

Culturelle® Digestive Health is the only product available that contains 10 billion live active cultures of Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG. This powerful probiotic strain has helped thousands experience relief from occasional digestive problems like upset stomach, gas and diarrhea by balancing good bugs in your system.

Inulin also helps promote healthier digestion by increasing calcium absorption while lowering inflammation levels

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Bacterial Vaginosis In Children

Bacterial vaginosis is most common in sexually active women of reproductive age, which means that it can affect teenage girls. It is possible to get BV without being sexually active because it can be caused by other factors.

For example, menstrual bleeding disrupts that natural pH of the vagina, making it more susceptible to microbiome imbalances. In addition, diet, smoking, perfumed soaps, bubble baths, and even stress are risk factors for bacterial vaginosis.

If you are concerned about your childs health, consult a doctor about the most age-appropriate testing for bacterial vaginosis.

The Best Probiotic For Bv Support Womens Health Needs

Women have a different anatomy than men do, which is why taking probiotics specifically designed for women can be important. Most probiotics for BV will also tackle other gut issues, digestive problems, immune issues, and feminine health-related problems. Taking a probiotic is a simple step that can directly impact the rest of your life.

Most of the best probiotics for BV were designed with specific feminine health concerns in mind. But that doesnt mean that they cannot help with other issues like urinary tract infections or yeast infections. Keeping your reproductive system healthy is imperative for women of any age especially those who want to have children.

Your feminine health depends on the good flora in your system to ward off infections that can lead to pain and discomfort including but not limited to BV.

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Questions /false Answers At End Of References

Probiotics For Yeast Infection: What Are Your Options

Vaginal infections like bacterial vaginosis and yeast infections are some of the most prevalent womens health concerns. In the United States, more than 1 million women experience yeast infections each year.

This overgrowth of yeast in the vagina can cause serious discomfort, including burning, itching, redness, and white discharge. When left untreated, yeast infections can lead to serious complications. Several prescription and over-the-counter antifungal medications can effectively treat vaginal yeast infections, and emerging research suggests that probiotics may also be helpful to promote vaginal health.

In this article, Ill describe the common symptoms and causes of yeast infections as well as what probiotics are and how theyre used. Then Ill cover prescription, OTC, and other natural yeast infection treatment options. Finally, Ill describe when its important to reach out to your provider to determine if you have a yeast infection and if probiotics may be right for you.

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Why Do People Use Vaginal Probiotics

People may turn to vaginal probiotics because of two common problems:

• Bacterial yeast infection. A fungus called candida normally lives in balance with other microorganisms in your vagina. But in a yeast infection, the candida grows so much that it overcomes healthy bacteria. You might notice itchiness and discharge that looks like cottage cheese.
• Bacterial vaginosis . Here, certain harmful bacteria grow enough to outnumber healthy bacteria like lactobacillus. You might notice a fishy smell, especially after your period or after sex, along with a gray-greenish discharge. Scientists donât know why BV happens. Itâs the most common vaginal infection in women of childbearing age.

Others might use probiotics to maintain vaginal health, even when they have no obvious problems. But some doctors warn there could be dangers in introducing new bacteria and other microorganisms into your body.

How Do I Take Probiotics

You can take probiotics in supplement form or by eating fermented foods and yogurts that contain live and active cultures. If you choose to take a supplement, be sure to look for one that contains at least 50 million CFUs and is specifically designed for vaginal health.

Its also important to take probiotics on a regular basis not just when youre experiencing vaginal issues. This will help prevent future problems from occurring.

When it comes to choosing a probiotic supplement, there are many factors to consider. Here are a few of the most important:

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What Other Treatments Can I Use For Bv

BV is usually treated with antibiotics, but there are non-antibiotic treatments available too, such as BETAFEM® BV Gel. Designed to help restore your bodys natural vaginal flora and balance your pH levels, it can both treat and prevent recurrent BV, offering relief from unpleasant odours within 24 hours.

There are also things you can do to reduce your risk of getting BV. For example, avoid using scented toilet paper or sanitary towels, and clean your intimate area with soap-free washes. Steer clear of overly perfumed soaps, bath liquids and shower gels too, and dont use strong detergents to wash your underwear. Quitting smoking can also cut your risk of developing BV.

If you keep getting BV, your doctor should be able to help you identify what is triggering the condition.

* This article is for information only and should not be used for the diagnosis or treatment of medical conditions. You should consult a doctor or other health care professional for diagnosis and treatment of all medical conditions.