The vagina is a good environment for many different microorganisms to grow, including some kinds of yeas. Yeast infections are a common cause of vaginal irritation and pain. Lactobacillus acidophilus, commonly known as acidophilus, is a type of bacteria that can be used as a supplement to treat yeast infections. Talk to your doctor before taking acidophilus supplements.
Yeast Infections
Most yeast infections are caused by a vaginal infestation of the fungus candida. Yeast infections can cause vaginal pain, itching and irritation of the vagina, a thick white vaginal discharge and a burning sensation during intercourse or urination. Approximately 75 percent of women will develop a yeast infection at some point in their lives. Yeast infections can be triggered by antibiotic use, pregnancy, poorly controlled diabetes, douching and inadequate vaginal lubrication.
Acidophilus
Acidophilus is a probiotic bacteria, which are "friendly" bacteria that are naturally found in your body. Probiotic bacteria do not typically cause any infections, but they can colonize in parts of your body, including your gut and your vagina. Acidophilus supplements can be used to treat or prevent yeast infections because they produce lactic acid, and candida does not grow as well in an acidic environment.
Usage
Acidophilus supplements do not appear to be effective at preventing yeast infections that are triggered by antibiotic use. However, vaginal suppositories that contain 1 billion live acidophilus bacteria are effective at reducing symptoms of a yeast infection when used twice daily for seven days when the acidophilus treatment is combined with conventional treatments, Medline Plus notes. Yogurt that contains acidophilus bacteria can also be consumed orally or applied to the vagina, though it is not clear how effective this treatment is, according to the Mayo Clinic.
Considerations
Acidophilus supplements are generally safe and these bacteria have been safely used in pregnant and lactating women. Acidophilus may not be safe for people with weakened immune systems or who have a condition known as "short bowel syndrome." Talk to your doctor before using any kind of acidophilus supplement.
