The article is a subjective view on this topic written by writers specializing in medical writing.
It may reflect on a personal journey surrounding struggles with an illness or medical condition, involve product comparisons, diet considerations, or other health-related opinions.
Although the view is entirely that of the writer, it is based on academic experiences and scientific research they have conducted; it is fact-checked by a team of degreed medical experts, and validated by sources attached to the article.
The numbers in parenthesis (1,2,3) will take you to clickable links to related scientific papers.
7 Best Probiotics For Vaginal Health 2024 According To The Experts
All articles are produced independently. When you click our links for purchasing products, we earn an affiliate commission. Learn more about how we earn revenue by reading our advertise disclaimer.
Elm & Rye Probiotic
- Supports vaginal flora.
- Lab tested.
- Reputable brand.
GNC Probiotic Complex Daily Need
- Vaginal health support.
- Eight probiotic strains.
- Vegan.
Care/of Probiotic
- Third-party tested.
- Digestion and immunity support.
- Allergen-free.
Ladies, it’s time to give your lady parts the TLC they deserve with the help of the best probiotic for vaginal health. These power-packed probiotics have you covered, from maintaining pH balance to warding off pesky yeast infections.
So sit back, relax, and let’s dive into the world of bacteria — the good kind!
Best Probiotics For Vaginal Health In (May. 2024)
- Elm & Rye Probiotic – Editor’s Choice
- GNC Probiotic Complex Daily Need – Best Multi-strain Probiotic For Vaginal Health
- Care/of Probiotic – Best Probiotic For Vegan
- Garden of Life Raw Probiotics Vaginal Care – Best Probiotic To Fight Yeast Infections
- Live Conscious Femme Well – Best Probiotic For Vaginal Cleanse
- Olly Happy Hoo-Ha – Best Probiotic For pH Balance
- Physician’s Choice 60 Billion Probiotics – Best Organic Probiotics For Vaginal Health
What Are Probiotics?
Probiotics[1] are live microorganisms, typically bacteria, similar to the beneficial microorganisms in the human gut. They are often referred to as “good” or “friendly” bacteria because they can help balance the microorganisms in the body and promote overall health.
In the context of vaginal health, probiotics can help to maintain a healthy balance of bacteria in the vaginal flora, which can help to prevent issues such as bacterial vaginosis.[2] A probiotic supplement can be taken orally to introduce these beneficial microorganisms into the body.
Different Probiotic Strains For Vaginal Health
Healthy vaginal flora is characterized by a balance of different microorganisms. Lactobacilli[3] are the most prevalent microorganisms found in a healthy vaginal ecosystem, but when their numbers decrease, it can lead to an imbalance in the vaginal flora.
Here are some of the probiotic strains in the best vaginal probiotic that may benefit vaginal health:
- Lactobacillus acidophilus:[4] This strain is commonly found in the vagina and plays a role in t maintaining a healthy vaginal pH balance. It may also help to prevent yeast infections and urinary tract infections.
- Lactobacillus rhamnosus: This strain is known to boost the immune system and may help to prevent recurrent urinary tract infections.[5]
- Lactobacillus reuteri: This strain has been shown to help prevent bacterial vaginosis[6] and yeast infections.
- Lactobacillus fermentum: This strain is known to have antioxidant properties and may help to prevent urinary tract infections.[7]
- Lactobacillus jensenii: This strain has been shown to help prevent bacterial vaginosis and may also help to prevent yeast infections.[8]
- Lactobacillus crispatus: This strain is commonly found in the vagina and is known to help maintain the vaginal ecosystem.[9]
It’s important to note that probiotic supplements may contain a combination of different strains, and not all probiotics are created equal. So it’s important to check the label and consult a healthcare professional before taking any supplement.
Maintaining a healthy vaginal flora has many health benefits, including reducing the risk of vaginal infections and promoting immune health and overall wellness.
An imbalance of these probiotic strains can increase the risk of vaginal infections and negatively impact immune health. It is important to adopt good hygiene habits, follow a healthy diet, and consider taking probiotic supplements to support and promote healthy vaginal flora.
7 Best Probiotics For Vaginal Health In 2024
Elm & Rye Probiotic
Elm & Rye Probiotic for vaginal health is a dietary supplement available in two forms: gummies or capsules. Adults may take one tablet per serving. It contains Lactobacillus Acidophilus, gelatin, vegetable magnesium stearate, and microcrystalline cellulose.
- Supports vaginal health.
- Supports digestion.
- Lab tested.
- Two forms are available.
- It is pricey.
Lactobacillus Acidophilus is a probiotic strain known to support vaginal health by helping maintain a healthy balance of bacteria and yeast[10] in the vagina. Lactobacillus acidophilus produces lactic acid and hydrogen peroxide.
This helps to maintain an acidic environment in the vagina that is inhospitable to harmful bacteria and yeast. In doing so, it can help prevent or reduce the risk of certain vaginal infections and diseases, such as:
- Bacterial vaginosis — BV
- Yeast infections
- Urinary Tract Infections — UTIs
- Sexually transmitted infections — STIs
- Vaginal itching
- Vaginal odor
It also helps to support the natural defense mechanisms of the vagina and promote overall vaginal health.
It is lab-tested to ensure purity and potency. The brand also has a board of advisers that provides oversight and guidance on developing and producing its products. Overall, Elm & Rye Probiotic, as the editor’s choice, is a convenient and effective way to support vaginal health.
One bottle of the gummy or the capsule form is available at $44.99. This is a very high price tag, but we shall see if its competitors are on a larger or lower scale.
GNC Probiotic Complex Daily Need
GNC Probiotic Complex Daily Need is a vaginal health supplement that contains 10 Billion CFUs in each capsule.
- Multi-strain blend.
- Immune support.
- Digestive support.
- Vaginal health support.
- You may experience a stomach ache when you first start using it.
This supplement costs $29.99 and contains eight unique strains of clinically studied probiotics. This price point puts the previous brand on the very high side. Besides that, this is still very good, which is why we have included it in this review.
This supplement is designed to help maintain a healthy balance of bacteria and yeast in the vagina and may offer immunological and digestive support. It is well known that Lactobacillus acidophilus promotes vaginal health by maintaining a balanced population of bacteria and yeast in the vagina.
This supplement has the additional probiotic strains Bifidum[11] and Bifidobacterium animalis subsp. lactis,[12] which also aids in promoting a balanced vaginal microbiota. The multi-strain combination contains the vaginal health-supporting strains Lactobacillus rhamnosus, Lactobacillus salivarius, Lactobacillus plantarum, and Strepococcus thermophilus.
This probiotic also contains prebiotics called fructooligosaccharides,[13] beneficial fibers that feed the beneficial bacteria in the vagina and intestines.
One capsule daily with food is the suggested serving; one to two extra servings may be taken daily for additional support.
Care/of Probiotic
Care/of Probiotic is a dietary supplement marketed as The Harmonious Gut supplement with vaginal health benefits. It is third-party tested and contains B. lactis, L. rhamnosus, and L. acidophilus.
- Vegan and vegetarian.
- No Unnecessary Fillers.
- Extensively studied
- Digestive support
- Immune support.
- Not intended as treatment.
This supplement’s formula has been designed to help naturally regulate your digestive system and, as an additional benefit, support vaginal health. The probiotic blend is made in Denmark, has no unnecessary fillers, is a non-genetically modified organism or GMO, and is suitable for vegans and vegetarians.
B. lactis, L. rhamnosus, and L. acidophilus[14] are all “good” bacteria strains that have been extensively studied for their digestive and immune support benefits to wipe out harmful bacteria colonies. They may also help maintain a healthy balance of bacteria and yeast in the vagina.
Consequently, this balance can help to prevent or reduce the risk of certain vaginal infections and diseases, such as bacterial vaginosis (BV) and yeast infections. It also helps to naturally regulate your vaginal pH, which is vital for overall vaginal health.
It is important to note that this supplement does not contain eggs, fish, milk, peanut, shellfish, soy, tree nuts, or wheat. This makes it suitable for people with food allergies. The cost is $11 for a 30-day supply.
These Care/of Probiotic supplements may be an effective way to support vaginal health and maintain a healthy balance of bacteria and yeast in the vagina. It is a good option for women who want to help their vaginal health conveniently and efficiently.
Health professionals also recommend it as a good supplement for women’s health.
Garden of Life Raw Probiotics Vaginal Care
Garden of Life Raw Probiotics Vaginal Care is a whole-food probiotic formula that promotes urinary tract, vaginal health, and healthy yeast balance. It contains 38 probiotic strains and a vaginal care blend with eight clinically studied probiotic strains.
- Whole food supplement.
- Clinically studied ingredients.
- Gluten-free.
- Shelf-stable.
- It contains milk and eggs.
This probiotic supplement contains Lacto and Bifido probiotic strains, which are beneficial probiotics for women’s health. It also has yeast-digesting enzymes[15] that can help break down harmful yeast cell walls, rendering them powerless.
This can help to maintain a balance of healthy bacteria and yeast in the vagina. It can also help to prevent or reduce the risk of certain vaginal infections and diseases, such as bacterial vaginosis.
This supplement supports vaginal and urinary tract health and balances vaginal flora.
It contains 50 billion live probiotic cultures in a convenient once-daily serving, and it is gluten-free, certified gluten-free by NSF (the National Sanitation Foundation), and shelf stable. It is also free of binders, carriers, fillers, preservatives, and artificial colors.
You should take one capsule daily, either with or without food. You can open the capsules and take the contents directly with juice or water. It contains milk and eggs, so it is unsuitable if you have an allergy to these ingredients.
Client reviews support the claim that this product works for women, specifically for BV. Taking probiotics is a great way to support overall health, including vaginal health.
Garden of Life Raw Probiotics Vaginal Care is a high-quality women’s probiotic supplement that contains a blend of beneficial probiotics specifically formulated for women’s health.
It is a good option for anyone looking to support their vaginal health and maintain a healthy balance of bacteria in their digestive system.
Live Conscious Femme Well
Live Conscious Femme Well contains a unique combination of clinically studied herbs and botanicals, fiber-digesting enzymes, and 12 billion colony-forming units or CFUs of potent probiotics.
- Vegan.
- Peanut, shellfish, dairy, and gluten-free.
- Third-party tested.
- Clinically studied ingredients.
- Pricey than most competitors.
As one of the best probiotics for women’s health; this supplement contains three key ingredients: Lactobacillus Acidophilus, aloe vera leaf gel, and oregano leaf extract.
Lactobacillus Acidophilus is a probiotic strain that is included because it supports healthy gastrointestinal health and maintains healthy vaginal microbiomes. Aloe vera leaf gel[16] promotes a healthy gut lining, and oregano leaf extract[17] can help reduce the growth of unwanted gut intruders.
This supplement balances microscopic intestinal flora, provides powerful digestive support and supports the body’s natural immune defenses. The suggested use is to take one capsule in the morning and one capsule in the evening with 8 ounces of water.
The supplement is made in the U.S.A., and it is third-party tested. A 365-day money-back guarantee backs it up, and even if you sign up for a subscription, you can pause or cancel anytime without questions. It also offers free shipping when you use promo codes.
This supplement is excellent for women who want to establish a healthy gut and vaginal flora with the best probiotic supplements. One bottle costs $21.99.
Olly Happy Hoo-Ha
Olly Happy Hoo-Ha is specifically formulated to support vaginal health and pH balance. This powerful probiotic blend combines multi-strain vaginal-friendly probiotics in a clinically-studied dose.
- Clinically-studied dose.
- Multi-strain probiotics.
- Fast shipping.
- Gluten-free.
- Quite expensive compared to competitors.
This probiotic mixture keeps vaginal pH levels in check and maintains a healthy balance of good bacteria. This is where the best probiotic for pH balance.
The company offers fast shipping and easy returns. And some client reviews on the website highlight that the discreet packaging helps with vaginal issues like UTIs and maintains a pH balance in the vaginal environment.
Olly Happy Hoo-Ha is an excellent supplement for healthy women who want to maintain a healthy balance of good bacteria. It is also a perfect option for those looking for the best probiotics for their digestive tract, skin health, immunity, and overall health.
It’s vital to remember that, depending on supply, capsule colors can vary. e. Regardless, the company affirms that you will continue receiving fantastic products and advantages.
The supplements facts panel on the label lists the same ingredients, while the other ingredients listed sources may alter the color of the capsule.
It is usually advisable to look at your bottle’s label to see the complete list of ingredients. It costs $19.99 and contains 25 capsules in a 25-day supply.
Physician’s Choice 60 Billion Probiotics
The Physician’s Choice 60 Billion probiotic supplements is a powerful blend of 10 proven strains specifically formulated to support gut health and balance vaginal pH levels. With 60 billion CFUs per serving, it provides a clinically-studied dose of Lactobacillus spp.
- Shelf stable bottle.
- Clinically studied dose.
- Ten powerful strains.
- Money-back guarantee.
- Acid and bile resistant.
- Expensive.
One of the best things about this supplement is that it is shelf-stable, so you don’t have to worry about refrigeration. It also contains an organic prebiotic fiber blend that may help nourish the probiotic organisms and make the probiotic supplement more effective.
The formula balances the microscopic intestinal flora and supports the body’s natural immune defenses. It also claims to help with nutrient absorption, helping you to soak up all the nutritious food you’re eating..
The probiotic is acid and bile-resistant, which means it can survive the harsh environment of the stomach and reach the intestines so it can do its job most effectively.
The Physician’s Choice 60 Billion probiotic supplement is gluten-free, dairy-free, shellfish-free, and peanut-free. It is also non-GMO and free of preservatives. It comes with a 60-day money-back guarantee and free standard shipping.
While it is a bit expensive, it’s worth noting that the Physician’s Choice 60 Billion probiotic supplements may be beneficial for women looking to support vaginal pH balancing and overall gut health. It’s always best to consult with a healthcare professional before taking any new supplements.
Benefits Of Probiotics For Vaginal Health
Here are all the health benefits that probiotics offer your vaginal health:
- Maintains normal vaginal flora.
- Promotes the growth of beneficial bacteria.
- Balances vaginal pH.
- Helps prevent and treat vaginal infections.
- Supports the immune system.
- Improves symptoms of vaginal and digestive conditions.
- Aids in preventing and treating urinary tract infections.
- Provides overall benefits for reproductive health.
- Helps regulate hormones.
Whether you’re looking for some of these benefits or all, taking a quality probiotic can help support your goals.
Potential Side Effects
Sometimes, even using the best probiotics for vaginal health, one might still face a few side effects. Here are the most common ones:
- Symptoms such as itching, discomfort, and discharge are caused by the disruption of vaginal bacteria balance.
- Allergic reactions to specific probiotic strains.
- Digestive symptoms include gas, bloating, stomach upset, or abdominal pain.
- Overgrowth of harmful bacteria in the vagina.
- Risk of infection in people with weakened immune systems.
- Risk of recurrence if probiotics are not taken correctly or in the right amount.
- Risk of cross-contamination if not stored or handled correctly.
How To Choose The Best Vaginal Probiotic?
Before you start using any of the six best probiotic supplements for your vagina, some factors should guide you toward getting the best. Use this checklist to find the best:
- Look for vaginal health-specific probiotic supplements.
- Choose blends of lactobacillus strains.
- Start with a low CFU count, then gradually increase.
- Consider clinically-studied strains for BV and yeast infections.
- Check the expiration date and storage instructions.
- Consult with a healthcare professional.
- Choose reputable brands.
- Check for other ingredients like sugar, gluten, or gelatin.
- Look for strains clinically studied for UTI prevention (Lactobacillus rhamnosus)
- Confirm that the probiotic strain is alive and active at the time of purchase.
Always check with your doctor before starting to see which product, if any, is best for your needs.
Final Thought
Healthy women who are seeking optimal vaginal health may consider probiotics to help support this goal. These seven brands of vaginal probiotics are a good starting point.
Some are only probiotics while others are probiotics that contain prebiotic fibers and botanicals that simultaneously benefit vaginal health and support gut health.
But please remember that these probiotics are meant for supplementary purposes only. For best results, follow a diet t rich in probiotic foods like pasteurized yogurt, pickles, kombucha, and miso to keep your vaginal health in tip-top shape.
Frequently Asked Questions
Lactobacillus, Enterococcus, Bifidobacteria, Bacillus Saccharomyces, Escherichia, and Streptococcus are the seven main genera of microorganisms found in probiotic products.
Most people need two to three weeks to notice any real advantages after starting a probiotic regimen. It takes time for the probiotics to get into your system and provide the desired benefits – to boost the number of good bacteria in your body, lower the number of harmful bacteria, and reduce inflammation.
Lactobacillus acidophilus is the most thoroughly studied probiotic strain in establishing and preserving a healthy vaginal pH. Lactobacillus reuteri and Lactobacillus rhamnosus are two other strains that can be helpful.
The most effective probiotics for treating BV are those in the Lactobacilli family —Lactobacillus acidophilus, Lacticasebacillus rhamnosus, Lactobacillus fermentum and Lactobacillus reuteri.
+ 17 sources
Health Canal avoids using tertiary references. We have strict sourcing guidelines and rely on peer-reviewed studies, academic researches from medical associations and institutions. To ensure the accuracy of articles in Health Canal, you can read more about the editorial process here
- NCCIH. (2016). Probiotics: What You Need To Know. [online] Available at: https://www.nccih.nih.gov/health/probiotics-what-you-need-to-know.
- Abou Chacra, L., Fenollar, F. and Diop, K. (2022). Bacterial Vaginosis: What Do We Currently Know? Frontiers in Cellular and Infection Microbiology, [online] 11. doi:https://doi.org/10.3389/fcimb.2021.672429.
- Di Cerbo, A., Palmieri, B., Aponte, M., Morales-Medina, J.C. and Iannitti, T. (2015). Mechanisms and therapeutic effectiveness of lactobacilli. Journal of Clinical Pathology, [online] 69(3), pp.187–203. doi:https://doi.org/10.1136/jclinpath-2015-202976.
- Oup.com. (2023). Available at: https://academic.oup.com/femsle/article/349/2/77/533643.
- Superti, F. and De Seta, F. (2020). Warding Off Recurrent Yeast and Bacterial Vaginal Infections: Lactoferrin and Lactobacilli. Microorganisms, [online] 8(1), p.130. doi:https://doi.org/10.3390/microorganisms8010130.
- Wu, S., Hugerth, L.W., Schuppe-Koistinen, I. and Du, J. (2022). The right bug in the right place: opportunities for bacterial vaginosis treatment. npj Biofilms and Microbiomes, [online] 8(1). doi:https://doi.org/10.1038/s41522-022-00295-y.
- Akgul, T. and Karakan, T. (2018). The role of probiotics in women with recurrent urinary tract infections. Türk Üroloji Dergisi/Turkish Journal of Urology, [online] 44(5), pp.377–383. doi:https://doi.org/10.5152/tud.2018.48742.
- Superti, F. and De Seta, F. (2020). Warding Off Recurrent Yeast and Bacterial Vaginal Infections: Lactoferrin and Lactobacilli. Microorganisms, [online] 8(1), p.130. doi:https://doi.org/10.3390/microorganisms8010130.
- Argentini, C., Fontana, F., Alessandri, G., Lugli, G.A., Mancabelli, L., Ossiprandi, M.C., van Sinderen, D., Ventura, M., Milani, C. and Turroni, F. (2022). Evaluation of Modulatory Activities of Lactobacillus crispatus Strains in the Context of the Vaginal Microbiota. Microbiology Spectrum, [online] 10(2). doi:https://doi.org/10.1128/spectrum.02733-21.
- Bertuccini, L., Russo, R., Iosi, F. and Superti, F. (2017). Effects of Lactobacillus rhamnosus and Lactobacillus acidophilus on bacterial vaginal pathogens. International Journal of Immunopathology and Pharmacology, [online] 30(2), pp.163–167. doi:https://doi.org/10.1177/0394632017697987.
- Turroni, F., Duranti, S., Milani, C., Lugli, G.A., van Sinderen, D. and Ventura, M. (2019). Bifidobacterium bifidum: A Key Member of the Early Human Gut Microbiota. Microorganisms, [online] 7(11), p.544. doi:https://doi.org/10.3390/microorganisms7110544.
- Mao, K., Gao, J., Wang, X., Li, X., Geng, S., Zhang, T., Sadiq, F.A. and Sang, Y. (2022). Bifidobacterium animalis subsp. lactis BB-12 Has Effect Against Obesity by Regulating Gut Microbiota in Two Phases in Human Microbiota-Associated Rats. Frontiers in Nutrition, [online] 8. doi:https://doi.org/10.3389/fnut.2021.811619.
- Jinno, S., Toshimitsu, T., Nakamura, Y., Kubota, T., Igoshi, Y., Ozawa, N., Suzuki, S., Nakano, T., Morita, Y., Arima, T., Yamaide, F., Kohno, Y., Masuda, K. and Shimojo, N. (2017). Maternal Prebiotic Ingestion Increased the Number of Fecal Bifidobacteria in Pregnant Women but Not in Their Neonates Aged One Month. Nutrients, [online] 9(3), p.196. doi:https://doi.org/10.3390/nu9030196.
- Bertuccini, L., Russo, R., Iosi, F. and Superti, F. (2017). Effects of Lactobacillus rhamnosus and Lactobacillus acidophilus on bacterial vaginal pathogens. International Journal of Immunopathology and Pharmacology, [online] 30(2), pp.163–167. doi:https://doi.org/10.1177/0394632017697987.
- Garvey, S.M., Guice, J.L., Hollins, M.D., Best, C.H. and Tinker, K.M. (2022). Fungal digestive enzymes promote macronutrient hydrolysis in the INFOGEST static in vitro simulation of digestion. Food Chemistry, [online] 386, p.132777. doi:https://doi.org/10.1016/j.foodchem.2022.132777.
- Le Phan, T.H., Park, S.Y., Jung, H.J., Kim, M.W., Cho, E., Shim, K.-S., Shin, E., Yoon, J.-H., Maeng, H.-J., Kang, J.-H. and Oh, S.H. (2021). The Role of Processed Aloe vera Gel in Intestinal Tight Junction: An In Vivo and In Vitro Study. International Journal of Molecular Sciences, [online] 22(12), p.6515. doi:https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms22126515.
- Scandorieiro, S., de Camargo, L.C., Lancheros, C.A.C., Yamada-Ogatta, S.F., Nakamura, C.V., de Oliveira, A.G., Andrade, C.G.T.J., Duran, N., Nakazato, G. and Kobayashi, R.K.T. (2016). Synergistic and Additive Effect of Oregano Essential Oil and Biological Silver Nanoparticles against Multidrug-Resistant Bacterial Strains. Frontiers in Microbiology, [online] 7. doi:https://doi.org/10.3389/fmicb.2016.00760.