What Are Probiotics? Probiotic Supplements, Foods, Uses, Benefits

Preventing vaginal infections

Thirty percent of women have a down-there infection called bacterial vaginosis, and they don’t even know it—but it happens when the vagina’s special mix of bacteria gets disrupted. “Bacterial vaginosis can be treated by oral or vaginal application of probiotics,” Dr. Tucker says. “The lactobacilli increased microflora’s return to normal, resolving the BV. Although not as effective as an antibiotic, they’re still found to be better than acetic acid or placebo” in studies. But, their effectiveness in treating yeast infections is limited.