Guidelines for Preventing Opportunistic Infections Among Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplant Recipients
Top 8 Best Probiotics For BV In 2024
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Probiotics, the advantageous live bacteria and yeasts, are vital for our general wellbeing, especially for our digestive system. They are available in different foods like yogurt, kefir, and sauerkraut, apart from being available as supplements. Research indicates that probiotics can aid in resolving a wide range of health issues, such as bacterial vaginosis (BV).
BV is a common vaginal infection that affects many women. It is caused by an imbalance of bacteria in the vagina and can lead to symptoms such as itching, burning, and a fishy odor. While antibiotics are a common treatment for BV, they can also kill off the good bacteria in the vagina, leading to further imbalances. This is where probiotics come in.
Taking probiotics can help restore the balance of bacteria in the vagina, potentially reducing the risk of BV and its symptoms. However, not all probiotics are created equal when it comes to treating BV. It's important to choose a probiotic that contains strains of bacteria that have been shown to be effective in treating BV.
When choosing a probiotic for BV, it's important to look for one that contains Lactobacillus crispatus, Lactobacillus jensenii, or Lactobacillus rhamnosus. These strains have been shown to be particularly effective in treating BV. Additionally, it's important to choose a probiotic that contains a high number of colony-forming units (CFUs) to ensure that you are getting a sufficient amount of the beneficial bacteria.
We spent hours researching and testing various probiotics to identify the best probiotics for BV. In the following sections, we will share our top picks and explain why we believe they are the best options for treating BV.
Best Probiotics for BVWe understand that dealing with BV can be a frustrating and uncomfortable experience. That's why we've researched and put together a list of the best probiotics for BV that can help alleviate symptoms and promote overall vaginal health. These probiotics have been carefully selected based on their effectiveness, quality, and customer reviews. Whether you're looking for a daily supplement or a specific strain to target BV, we've got you covered. Check out our top picks below.
1. URO Vaginal Probiotics for WomenWe highly recommend URO Vaginal Probiotics for Women to anyone looking for a daily supplement that supports vaginal health.
Pros
Cons
We've been using URO Vaginal Probiotics for Women for a few weeks now and have noticed a significant improvement in our vaginal health. The proprietary V-Positiv Probiotic Blend and XOS Prebiotics work together to promote healthy vaginal flora and support a healthy vaginal odor. We appreciate that the ingredients are clean and provide proactive relief from vaginal itching and dryness.
One potential downside is that it may take a few weeks to see results, so it's important to be patient and consistent with taking the supplement. Additionally, some may find the price point to be high compared to other probiotic supplements. Lastly, the capsules may be difficult to swallow for some individuals.
Overall, we highly recommend URO Vaginal Probiotics for Women to anyone looking for a daily supplement that supports vaginal health.
2. RepHresh Pro-B Probiotic Supplement for WomenWe highly recommend RepHresh Pro-B Probiotic Supplement for Women because it is a clinically tested and gynecologist recommended brand that balances yeast and bacteria to maintain feminine health.
Pros
Cons
RepHresh Pro-B is a feminine probiotic supplement taken orally once a day to balance yeast and bacteria. With 5 billion beneficial bacteria per serving at time of manufacture, RepHresh Pro-B Feminine Probiotic Supplement contains patented and clinically tested strains of lactobacillus: L. Rhamnosus (GR-1) and L. Reuteri (RC-14). This proprietary probiotic blend balances yeast and bacteria to maintain feminine health.
We have personally used RepHresh Pro-B and have noticed a significant improvement in our feminine health. It is easy to take and has no unpleasant taste or odor. We also appreciate that it is gluten-free and contains no artificial colors or preservatives.
Overall, RepHresh Pro-B Probiotic Supplement for Women is a reliable and effective choice for those looking to balance their vaginal flora and maintain feminine health.
3. Happy v Probiotics for Vaginal HealthIf you're looking for a natural BV treatment and yeast infection prebiotic, Happy v Probiotics for Vaginal Health is definitely worth considering.
Pros
Cons
We recently tried Happy v Probiotics for Vaginal Health and were impressed with the results. Within a few weeks, we noticed a significant improvement in vaginal health and a reduction in symptoms of BV and yeast infections.
The product contains more than 50 billion CFU of lactobacillus acidophilus probiotic, which is ideal for women's digestive health. Additionally, the prebiotics in the formula make the probiotics six times more effective.
Happy v Probiotics for Vaginal Health also contains Lactobacillus rhamnosus, crispatus, and reuteri, which have been clinically tested to help protect the vaginal flora and urinary tract against BV, UTI, and yeast infections.
The delayed-release and shelf-stable capsules pair well with boric acid suppositories and cranberry pills for women. The product is also gluten and dairy-free and manufactured in a USA FDA inspected cGMP facility.
Overall, we highly recommend Happy v Probiotics for Vaginal Health for those looking for a natural and effective way to treat BV and maintain vaginal health.
4. Vitamin Bounty Women's Vaginal Probiotic & PrebioticIf you're looking for a probiotic that can help support your vaginal and urinary health, Vitamin Bounty Women's Vaginal Probiotic & Prebiotic might be the product for you.
Pros
Cons
Our experience with Vitamin Bounty Women's Vaginal Probiotic & Prebiotic has been positive overall. We appreciate that the product is designed specifically for women's needs and contains a blend of prebiotics and probiotics. The addition of cranberry, ashwagandha, and black cohosh root is also a nice touch, as these ingredients have been shown to support vaginal and urinary health. We've also noticed that the delayed-release capsule seems to be effective, as we've experienced positive results since taking the supplement.
That being said, we do understand that not every product works for every person. Some users have reported no noticeable difference after taking the supplement, and a few have noted that the capsules are slightly larger than other probiotics they've tried. Additionally, the product may not be suitable for individuals with certain dietary restrictions, as it contains gluten.
Overall, we would recommend Vitamin Bounty Women's Vaginal Probiotic & Prebiotic to individuals looking for a probiotic that can support their vaginal and urinary health. However, as with any supplement, we recommend speaking with a healthcare provider before adding it to your daily routine.
5. Intimate Rose Vaginal Probiotics For WomenIf you're looking for a natural way to optimize your vaginal health, Intimate Rose Vaginal Probiotics For Women is worth considering.
Pros
Cons
I've been using Intimate Rose Vaginal Probiotics For Women for a few weeks now and I'm already seeing a difference in my vaginal health. I love that it contains natural ingredients, including four strains of prebiotics and probiotics, D-Mannose, and cranberry extract. It's also great that it's safe for pregnant and breastfeeding women and may reduce the risk of Group B Strep during pregnancy.
One thing to note is that some customers have reported stomach upset or bloating when taking this product. However, I haven't experienced any negative side effects. I also appreciate that the vegan capsules are easy to swallow and that the two-pill dosage means I don't have to take as many pills.
Overall, if you're looking for a natural way to improve your vaginal health, Intimate Rose Vaginal Probiotics For Women is definitely worth trying.
6. Life-Space Probiotic for WomenIf you're looking for a probiotic that supports healthy vaginal microflora, reduces the recurrence of women's troubles, and supports urinary tract health, then Life-Space Probiotic for Women is the product for you.
Pros
Cons
We have personally used Life-Space Probiotic for Women and have found it to be effective in reducing the recurrence of women's troubles. The probiotic contains Lactobacillus crispatus, which has significant antibacterial activity and enhances women's vaginal immunity and resistance. We also appreciate that it is dairy and gluten-free, with no artificial flavors or colorants.
Overall, we highly recommend Life-Space Probiotic for Women for those looking for a probiotic that supports healthy vaginal microflora, reduces the recurrence of women's troubles, and supports urinary tract health.
7. WINDSOR BOTANICALS ProbioticIf you're looking for a high-quality vaginal probiotic supplement, then the WINDSOR BOTANICALS Probiotic is a great option for you.
Pros
Cons
We've been using this probiotic supplement for a few weeks now, and we're really impressed with the results. We've noticed a significant improvement in our vaginal health, with fewer symptoms of BV and yeast infections. The capsules are easy to swallow, and we haven't experienced any side effects so far.
The probiotic blend is specifically designed to target the root cause of unhealthy bacterial growth, rather than just masking the symptoms. This means that it's a more effective and sustainable solution for long-term vaginal health. We also appreciate the fact that the product is cruelty-free, vegetarian, non-GMO, and gluten-free, making it a more ethical and sustainable choice overall.
Overall, we would highly recommend the WINDSOR BOTANICALS Probiotic to anyone looking for a high-quality vaginal probiotic supplement. It's effective, safe, and easy to use, and it's produced with the highest standards of quality and purity. Give it a try and see the difference for yourself!
8. Omax Health Prebiotics and Probiotics Complex for WomenWe highly recommend Omax Health Prebiotics and Probiotics Complex for Women to anyone looking for the best probiotics for BV.
Pros
Cons
We have personally used Omax Health Prebiotics and Probiotics Complex for Women and found it to be very effective in balancing and restoring pH in 7-14 days. The product contains 20 billion CFU + 6 probiotic and prebiotics strains, including Acidophilus, Lactobacillus, and Bifidobacterium, to help prevent the build-up of bad bacteria in the gut and vaginal microbiome. The powerful cranberry extract incorporated in the probiotic helps prevent UTIs and supports urinary tract health.
In addition, the probiotic is dairy-free, vegan, GMO-free, gluten-free, soy-free, and contains no artificial flavors, colors, or preservatives. The product comes in vegetarian capsules, making it suitable for everyone.
Overall, we highly recommend Omax Health Prebiotics and Probiotics Complex for Women to anyone looking for a high-quality probiotic to support feminine health and balance.
Buying GuideWhen it comes to choosing the best probiotics for BV, there are a few features you should consider before making a purchase. Here are some things to keep in mind:
Types of StrainsDifferent strains of bacteria have different benefits for the body. Make sure to choose a probiotic that contains strains that are specifically beneficial for treating BV, such as Lactobacillus crispatus, Lactobacillus jensenii, and Lactobacillus iners.
CFU CountCFU stands for "colony-forming units," which refers to the number of live bacteria in each serving of the probiotic. Look for a product with a high CFU count, as this indicates that the probiotic contains a large number of active bacteria.
Delivery MethodProbiotics come in many different forms, including capsules, tablets, powders, and even vaginal suppositories. Consider which delivery method would work best for you and your lifestyle.
QualityIt's important to choose a high-quality probiotic from a reputable manufacturer. Look for products that have been third-party tested for purity and potency.
PriceProbiotics can vary widely in price, so consider your budget when making a purchase. Keep in mind that a higher price doesn't always guarantee a better product.
By keeping these factors in mind, you can choose the best probiotic for your needs and improve your overall vaginal health.
Frequently Asked Questions What are the top-rated probiotics for improving vaginal health?There are several probiotics that are known to be effective in improving vaginal health. Some of the top-rated probiotics include Lactobacillus crispatus, Lactobacillus jensenii, Lactobacillus rhamnosus, and Lactobacillus reuteri.
What is the best probiotic to use for BV and pH balance?The best probiotic to use for BV and pH balance is one that contains a high concentration of Lactobacillus bacteria. Look for a probiotic supplement that contains Lactobacillus crispatus, Lactobacillus jensenii, Lactobacillus rhamnosus, or Lactobacillus reuteri.
Can probiotics cure BV?While probiotics can help improve the symptoms of BV, they are not a cure for the condition. BV is caused by an imbalance of bacteria in the vagina, and probiotics can help restore the balance of bacteria, but they cannot cure the condition.
Are there any over-the-counter probiotics that can help with BV?Yes, there are several over-the-counter probiotics that can help with BV. Look for a probiotic supplement that contains Lactobacillus crispatus, Lactobacillus jensenii, Lactobacillus rhamnosus, or Lactobacillus reuteri.
What are the benefits of taking oral probiotics for BV?Taking oral probiotics for BV can help improve the symptoms of the condition, such as vaginal odor and discharge. Probiotics can also help prevent future episodes of BV by restoring the balance of bacteria in the vagina.
What are the best vitamins to take for preventing BV?While there is no specific vitamin that can prevent BV, taking a daily multivitamin can help support overall vaginal health. Look for a multivitamin that contains vitamin C, vitamin D, and vitamin E, as these vitamins are known to support immune function and promote healthy vaginal tissue.
Women Need Better Treatments For Bacterial Vaginosis
BALTIMORE, May 2, 2024: Bacterial Vaginosis (BV) affects about one-quarter of reproductive-age women and is linked to adverse health outcomes, such as increased HIV risk. Yet for decades, BV treatment in the United States has largely relied on antibiotics, and BV recurrence is common following antibiotic therapy.
Now, two European clinical trials have shown limited success with a different type of medication used to treat BV called dequalinium chloride (DQC). DQC—an antiseptic—has been in use for several decades in countries throughout Europe as an alternative treatment for BV. It is not currently approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. In a commentary published May 2 in JAMA Network Open, researchers from the Institute for Genome Sciences (IGS) within the University of Maryland School of Medicine (UMSOM) and Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine (JHUSOM) have called for more robust clinical trials in the United States to confirm if DQC is as good or better than existing BV treatments.
"For women suffering from BV, there is a critical need for more effective treatments," said corresponding author Rebecca Brotman, PhD, MPH, a researcher at IGS and UMSOM Professor of Epidemiology and Public Health. "We need more robust clinical trials to fill in the knowledge gaps of what we know about DQC from the European studies."
In the commentary, the authors discuss three main knowledge gaps from the European trials.
"First, we know that vaginal microbiota may vary regionally and the DQC clinical trials so far have only been conducted in Europe," said first author Kayla Carter, PhD, MPH, a postdoc in the Brotman Lab at IGS. "In addition, the trials did not last longer than five weeks, so we don't know long-term outcomes after DQC treatment; and, finally, there's very limited data on its use and its safety during pregnancy."
DQC works differently than current treatments because it is an antiseptic with antibacterial and antifungal activity, rather than an antibiotic. It also is an intravaginal tablet, not an oral treatment. The antibiotic treatments currently available to U.S. Women are metronidazole and clindamycin as first-line medications, with alternatives of secnidazole and tinidazole. While these treatments are generally effective in the short term, as many as 50 percent of women will have a BV recurrence by six months after treatment.
"We've seen a growing investment in innovative BV treatments in recent years, including live biotherapeutics and vaginal microbiome transplants, but those are still in relatively early stages of development," said Dr. Brotman. "In the meantime, the European trials indicate that DQC could be a viable, well-tolerated alternative BV treatment. That's why it deserves further investigation with well-funded clinical trials."
Susan Tuddenham, MD, MPH, Associate Professor of Medicine at the Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine also contributed to this commentary.
About the Institute for Genome Sciences
The Institute for Genome Sciences' (IGS) has been part of the University of Maryland School of Medicine (UMSOM) since 2007. IGS scientists work in diverse areas, applying genomics and systems biology approaches to better understand health issues in premature infants, women, and transgender people; to improve vaccine development; to study evolutionary biology; and to understand cancer, parasitic, fungal, and infectious diseases, as well as identifying the underpinnings of aging, brain development, addiction, and mental health. IGS also remains at the forefront of high-throughput genomic technologies and bioinformatics analyses through its core facility, Maryland Genomics which provides researchers around the world with cutting-edge, collaborative, and cost-effective sequencing and analysis.
About the University of Maryland School of Medicine
Now in its third century, the University of Maryland School of Medicine was chartered in 1807 as the first public medical school in the United States. It continues today as one of the fastest growing, top-tier biomedical research enterprises in the world -- with 46 academic departments, centers, institutes, and programs, and a faculty of more than 3,000 physicians, scientists, and allied health professionals, including members of the National Academy of Medicine and the National Academy of Sciences, and a distinguished two-time winner of the Albert E. Lasker Award in Medical Research. With an operating budget of more than $1.2 billion, the School of Medicine works closely in partnership with the University of Maryland Medical Center and Medical System to provide research-intensive, academic, and clinically based care for nearly 2 million patients each year. The School of Medicine has more than $500 million in extramural funding, with most of its academic departments highly ranked among all medical schools in the nation in research funding. As one of the seven professional schools that make up the University of Maryland, Baltimore campus, the School of Medicine has a total population of nearly 9,000 faculty and staff, including 2,500 students, trainees, residents, and fellows. The School of Medicine, which ranks as the 8th highest among public medical schools in research productivity (according to the Association of American Medical Colleges profile) is an innovator in translational medicine, with 606 active patents and 52 start-up companies. In the latest U.S. News & World Report ranking of the Best Medical Schools, published in 2023, the UM School of Medicine is ranked #10 among the 92 public medical schools in the U.S., and in the top 16 percent (#32) of all 192 public and private U.S. Medical schools. The School of Medicine works locally, nationally, and globally, with research and treatment facilities in 36 countries around the world. Visit medschool.Umaryland.Edu
JournalJAMA Network Open
Method of ResearchCommentary/editorial
Subject of ResearchPeople
Article TitleWomen Need Better Treatments for Bacterial Vaginosis
Article Publication Date2-May-2024
COI StatementDr. Brotman reported receiving donation of STI testing kits from Hologic for a research study outside of the submitted work. Dr. Tuddenham reported receiving royalties from UptoDate outside of the submitted work and participating in research supported by in-kind donation of STI test kits to her institution through Hologic.
Disclaimer: AAAS and EurekAlert! Are not responsible for the accuracy of news releases posted to EurekAlert! By contributing institutions or for the use of any information through the EurekAlert system.
Yeast Infection: Signs & Symptoms
A yeast infection can feel like itching or even burning. Or you may have swelling so extreme, it leads to sores. Sexual intercourse may be painful. Whether your symptoms are mild or severe, a yeast infection can be uncomfortable.
Yeast infections are caused by a fungus. It generally causes your vagina and vulva (the tissues at the opening of the vagina) or your penis to itch. You may also have a discharge.
Knowing how to spot the symptoms of a yeast infection can help you get the most effective treatment.
A yeast infection is a condition caused by a fungus that can lead to itchiness of your vagina and vulva (the tissues at the opening of the vagina) or penis. It can also cause a discharge. Yeast infections are a common type of vaginitis or vaginal infection. Knowing how to spot the signs and symptoms can help you get the most effective treatment. (Photo credit: KATERYNA KON/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY/Getty Images)
Your vulva and vaginal opening or your penis may look red, swollen, and irritated. There may be a white coating or shiny sores on your vaginal or penile tissue. Your discharge may be different than normal. Your symptoms will vary depending on how severe your infection is.
Yeast infection discharge
It may be watery or thicker and look like cottage cheese. It's usually whitish to yellowish in color. A vaginal yeast infection shouldn't smell different than normal. Symptoms can vary from person to person.
Your symptoms depend on where the infection is and how your body responds. Your symptoms may be mild, moderate, or severe. Or you may have no noticeable symptoms.
Vaginal yeast infection symptoms
Yeast infections are a common type of vaginitis or vaginal infection. Three of every four women and people with a vagina get one in their lifetime. And many have more than one.
Also known as vaginal candidiasis, if you have a vaginal yeast infection, you'll most likely have extreme itching in and around your vagina; this is the most common symptom. In addition to itching, you might also have:
Penile yeast infection symptoms
A penile yeast infection is also called candida balanitis. This can happen when there's an overgrowth of fungus on the penis or if you have sex with a partner who has a vaginal yeast infection.
About 3%-11% of men and people assigned male at birth will get a yeast infection in their lifetime. It tends to happen on moist, warm, creased areas of skin such as the head of the penis and foreskin.
It's more common if you aren't circumcised and for children under age 4. About 1 in 30 uncircumcised people will develop a yeast infection. It's also more common if you have phimosis, which means the foreskin doesn't easily pull back over the penis.
The symptoms include:
Sometimes the symptoms of a yeast infection can be more serious and require extra care. Or you may get repeated infections. You might need a longer course of treatment or a prevention plan with your doctor to keep the infection from coming back. Severe yeast infections are also called complicated yeast infections.
You can get a more complicated infection if:
Your infection might also be more complicated if it's caused by a different type of fungus than what commonly causes yeast infections. This can mean the usual over-the-counter treatments are not as effective.
Signs of a complicated infection include:
Vaginal yeast infection and bacterial vaginosis (BV) are different types of vaginitis. BV is caused by bacteria rather than a fungus. Both infections can cause itching and a burning feeling when you pee. However, other symptoms are not the same.
You may have BV rather than a yeast infection if your vagina has a bad smell or if you have a thin, white, green, or gray discharge.
See your doctor if you think you may have BV or if you're not sure what infection you have.
Both infections may cause discomfort and a burning sensation when you pee. But while a yeast infection causes symptoms like vaginal itching and a thick or watery odorless discharge, a urinary tract infection (UTI) does not. If you have a UTI, you may have these symptoms instead:
Call your doctor if your symptoms don't improve within 72 hours of starting treatment. Call right away if you have any signs of a complicated infection.
You should also make an appointment with your doctor if:
If you think you have a yeast infection but aren't sure, it's important to see your doctor for a proper diagnosis. Your doctor can also let you know if something else may be causing your problems.
Treatment can help relieve your symptoms, keep an infection from becoming severe, and prevent you from spreading any potential infections during sex.
If you have itching around your vagina or penis and a thick, white, chunky, or watery discharge, there's a chance you have a yeast infection. Call your doctor if you're not sure. Over-the-counter treatments often provide relief in a few days.
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