Your vagina naturally contains certain types of bacteria that normally do not cause any health problems. Changes in the types of bacteria in your vagina can lead to health problems, including bacterial vaginosis. One way of treating bacterial vaginosis is to try to restore the natural balance of bacteria using probiotics.
Bacterial Vaginosis
Bacterial vaginosis is caused by certain bacteria in the vagina, known as anerobes, overgrowing. Although it is not known what causes this to happen, women who have multiple sexual partners, start with a new sexual partner or who douche are more likely to develop this type of infection, FamilyDoctor explains. Bacterial vaginosis can cause your vagina to develop a fishy discharge that may be light or faintly colored. Bacterial vaginosis needs to be treated because the bacteria can spread up the fallopian tubes into the uterus, where it can cause severe health problems.
Probiotics and Vaginosis
Probiotics are a blanket term used for bacteria that do not normally cause any infections and can instead be helpful for the human body. One of the most commonly used probiotics is the Lactobacillus group of bacteria, which are very similar to the bacteria which are normally found in the vagina. Taking lactobacillus tablets along with antibiotics can be more effective at treating bacterial vaginosis than antibiotics along, Science Daily reports. In addition, probiotic supplements were found to be just as effective at treating bacterial vaginosis as antibiotic therapy.
Dosage
If you are using probiotics to treat a case of bacterial vaginosis, you can insert specially designed capsules or tablets containing Lactobacillus acidophilus directly into the vagina, the University of Maryland Medical Center notes. If you do this, follow the directions on the packaging for these vaginal suppositories. Otherwise, you can treat bacterial vaginosis by consuming at least 8 oz. of yogurt each day with live bacterial cultures or by taking an oral Lactobacillus supplement.
Safety
Probiotic supplements are generally safe, though some people develop gas, diarrhea or an upset stomach when they take oral probiotic supplements. There are rare cases of probiotic bacteria causing infections, especially in people with weakened immune systems or artificial heart valves. Consequently, talk with your doctor before trying probiotics for the treatment of bacterial vaginosis, and probiotics should not be considered as an alternative to seeing a doctor for the diagnosis and treatment of bacterial vaginosis.
