Growing evidence suggests that probiotics, friendly bacteria, might be useful in preventing and treating some conditions during pregnancy, according to a 2005 article in the journal “Canadian Family Physician.” Lactobacillus acidophilus is a probiotic that naturally lives in our digestive tract and aids in digestion. Before using Lactobacillus acidophilus during pregnancy, check with you health care provider.
Lactobacillus Acidophilus
Lactobacillus acidophilus is a naturally occurring and common bacterium that lives in your vagina and intestines. It assists in breaking down your foods, aids in digestion and protects against disease-causing bacteria. Lactobacillus acidophilus does this by producing hydrogen peroxide and lactic acid that kill off the excess unwanted bacteria. At times, antibiotics might destroy the disease-causing bacteria and the friendly bacteria. Your doctor might suggest using a probiotic such as Lactobacillus acidophilus to restore the bacterial balance in your vagina and digestive system.
Vaginal Infections
Vaginal infections can be caused by yeast or bacteria. Animal studies show that bacterial vaginosis might cause miscarriage or pre-term delivery and also might lead to serious infections in the mother after birth, according to the research paper in "Acta Obstetricia Gynecologicia Scandinavia.” A vaginal yeast infection does not harm the baby but might be uncomfortable. Taking vaginal medication that is not tested for pregnancy often is frowned upon by physicians, according to the March of Dimes. Using Lactobacillus acidophilus is a viable alternative for both types of infection, provided your doctor agrees.
Other Benefits
Probiotics such as Lactobacillus acidolphilus might have many other promising uses. The paper in “Canadian Family Physician” and a 2008 study in “Clinical Infectious Diseases” note evidence that Lactobacilli might prevent allergies in children, such as atopic dermatitis and milk-induced allergies, if taken during pregnancy. Other uses include the treatment of diarrhea and infections of the urinary tract.
Precautions
Using Lactobacillus acidophilus during pregnancy is "possibly safe," states Medline Plus, a service of the U.S. National Library of Medicine, but Lactobacillus acidophilus is not strictly regulated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. In some brands, there might be a question of purity, strength and effectiveness. The manufacturers of Lactobacillus acidophilus have no common standards of quality in place, either. Only use Lactobacillus acidophilus or any other herbal supplement if recommended by your doctor. Ask your physician for a brand recommendation to ensure your are getting the best quality possible and the right dosage.
References
- "Canadian Family Physician"; Taking Probiotics During Pregnancy; Gregor Reid, et al.; November 2005
- Medline Plus: Lactobacillus
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Lactobacillus Acidophilus
- "Acta Obstetricia Gynecologicia Scandinavia"; Bacterial Vaginosis in Early Pregnancy May Predispose for Preterm Birth and Postpartum Endometritis.; B.Jacobsson, et al.; November 2002
- March of Dimes: Yeast Infections During Pregnancy
- "Clinical Infectious Diseases"; Clinical Indications for Probiotics: An Overview; B. R. Goldin, et al.; 2008
