For years, probiotics have been endorsed as the gut-friendly heroes of digestion. But for women, their benefits extend far beyond a happy tummy!

From hormonal balance to vaginal health, these bacteria play a crucial role in supporting overall well-being.

The Female Microbiome 

Unlike men, women possess a diverse and complex microbiome that are linked to their reproductive and hormonal systems. This balance of bacteria, fungi and viruses influences everything from immunity to mood. Disruptions to this ecosystem, caused by factors like stress, antibiotics, diet, hormonal fluctuation or sexual acitivity, can lead to a cascade of health issues.

The Crucial Role of Lactobacilli in Vaginal Health 

The vaginal microbiome is largely composed of bacteria, with Lactobacillus species being the most common. In healthy women of reproductive age, these species typically make up 70 to 90% of the vaginal microbiota. Key benefical species include  L. crispatus, gasseri, iners, jensenii, reuteri, rhamnosus, and fermentum. These bacteria produce lactic acid through glycolysis in extrogen-rich vaginal epithelial cells, maintaing an acidic pH that inhibits harmful microbes.

Probiotics aid vaginal health and prevents infections

• Disruptions to the vaginal microbiome, caused by factors like antibiotics and hormonal changes, can lead to overgrowth of harmful bacteria and conditons like bacterial vaginosis (BV) and vaginal candidiasis. These conditins are associated with increased risks of STIs, infertility, pelvic inflammatory disease, and pregnancy complications.
• Probiotics like L. crispatus, L. jenenii and L. gasseri, can help restore and maintain a healthy vaginal pH, inhibiting the growth of harmful bacteri and fungi.

PCOS Managment

• Polycystic ovary syndrom (PCOS), characterised by excess androgen production, can lead to various symptoms, including insulin resistance. 
• Studies have shown that probiotic supplementation significantly reduces fasting blood glucose levels in women with PCOS.  
• Probiotics also decrease total cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, and triglycerides levels.

Fertility Support 

• A high Lactobacillus vaginal microbiota is correlated with reduced rish of female infertility.
• Since probiotics promote high Lactobacillus levels, they may have a beneficial effect on women experiencing infertility.

Digestive Health

IBS Relief:

• Probiotics can alleviate symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), such as bloating, gas, and abdominal pain, which disproportionately affect women.
• They promote regular bowel movements and improve gut barrier function, reducing inflammation and discomfort.

Hormonal Balance & Mood Regulation:

• The gut microbiome plays a role in estrogen metabolism, influencing hormonal balance.
• Probiotics may help regulate estrogen levels, potentially alleviating symptoms of PMS and menopause.
• The gut-brain axis, the communication pathway between the gut and brain, is influenced by the microbiome.
• Probiotics may improve mood and reduce anxiety by modulating neurotransmitter production.

Choosing the Right Probiotic:

With a vast array of probiotic supplements available, selecting the right one can be overwhelming. Here’s what to consider:

• Strain Specificity: Look for strains that have been clinically studied and shown to be effective for your specific needs.
• CFU Count: Colony-forming units (CFUs) indicate the number of live bacteria in the supplement. A higher CFU count doesn’t necessarily mean a better product; focus on strain specificity.   
• Quality and Purity: Choose reputable brands that undergo rigorous testing for quality and purity.
• Storage: Some probiotics require refrigeration, while others are shelf-stable.   
• Prebiotics: Consider combining probiotics with prebiotics, which are non-digestible fibers that feed beneficial bacteria.   
• Consult a Healthcare Professional: Always consult with your doctor or a registered dietitian before starting any new supplement, especially if you have underlying health conditions.

References

1. Ling-Ying W, Tsai-Hwa Y, Yu-Che O, Hao L. The role of probiotics in women’s health: An update narrative review. Taiwanese Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology. 2024;63(1):29-36.
2. Satish Kumar L, Pugalenthi LS, Ahmad M, Reddy S, Barkhane Z, Elmadi J. Probiotics in Irritable Bowel Syndrome: A Review of Their Therapeutic Role. Cureus. 2022;14(4):e24240.
3. Szydłowska I, Marciniak A, Brodowska A, Loj B, Ciećwież S, Skonieczna-Żydecka K, et al. Effects of probiotics supplementation on the hormone and body mass index in perimenopausal and postmenopausal women using the standardized diet. A 5-week double-blind, placebo-controlled, and randomized clinical study. Eur Rev Med Pharmacol Sci. 2021;25(10):3859-67.