Researchers at Ewha Womans University conducted a study showing that oral probiotics containing lactobacillus can influence the vaginal microbiome, particularly in individuals with dysbiosis, including those who do not exhibit symptoms. The findings appeared in a Nutrients publication, highlighting the potential role of specific probiotic strains in supporting vaginal health through dietary supplementation.
The vaginal microbiome is closely linked to overall vaginal health. A robust community of lactobacilli is thought to create a protective environment that hinders the growth of harmful microbes. When Lactobacillus species are abundant, they help maintain an acidic vaginal pH through lactic acid production, an environment that supports immune function and demonstrates antimicrobial and antiviral properties. This microbial balance is associated with reduced risk of infections and better resistance to infections triggered by sexual activity.
Dysbiosis, a disruption in microbial balance, often involves a drop in Lactobacillus populations and a rise in anaerobic bacteria. Such shifts can contribute to inflammation and urinary tract infections, and they may alter susceptibility to infections and general comfort. In this context, scientists have explored oral probiotics containing Lactobacillus strains as a potential strategy to rebalance the vaginal ecosystem and mitigate symptoms linked to dysbiosis.
In the cited research, investigators utilized a probiotic formulation that combined three Lactobacillus strains: a yogurt starter culture, Lactobacillus reuteri, and Lactobacillus rhamnosus. The multi-strain approach aims to support a diverse but cooperative lactobacillus community that can colonize or influence the vaginal environment from the gut and other reservoir sites, promoting a healthier microbiome profile.
Results indicated that among women with severe dysbiosis, about six in ten experienced a measurable reduction in dysbiosis scores after completing two three-week probiotic courses. Importantly, the improvement was also observed in participants who did not report dysbiosis symptoms, suggesting a broader impact of the probiotic combination on vaginal microbial balance. The researchers emphasize that sustained, real-world benefits may require ongoing use and consideration of individual factors such as diet, antibiotic exposure, and general health. These nuances are essential for interpreting probiotic effects and planning personalized strategies for vaginal health maintenance.
Overall, the study adds to a growing body of evidence supporting the possible role of oral Lactobacillus-containing probiotics in supporting vaginal microbiome health. While the findings are encouraging, they also underscore the need for larger and longer-term investigations to determine the most effective strains, dosages, and treatment durations for diverse populations. The results align with a broader understanding that maintaining a Lactobacillus-dominant vaginal ecosystem can contribute to reduced vulnerability to infections and enhanced mucosal immunity, reinforcing the idea that nutrition and gut–vaginal microbial interactions deserve continued attention in women’s health research. (Citation: Nutrients study from Ewha Womans University researchers.)