Probiotics are the type of bacteria and yeast which are good for humans specifically for our digestive system and other areas of the body such as the vaginal microbiome. These can be found in some fermented foods and supplements used for nutritional purposes. Generally, people think about bacteria as harmful and disease-causing organisms but these probiotics are very important to keep our intestines and body healthy.
They help the human body in some of the very important ways:
- Increased absorption of nutrients
- Optimal mental health and maintaining immune functions
One of the most important effects of probiotics is on the vaginal microbiome. Probiotics help the body to balance the microbiome which in turn protect against many infections. One of the most common infections is Bacterial Vaginosis and probiotics are proven to help against progression of this infection.
Usually after becoming ill people start taking antibiotics which in turn decrease the probiotics in the body which can cause adverse effects. Normally people can speed up the probiotic population in their body by having a good diet rich in fermented foods but another easy and effective way to reach the optimum level of probiotics is through proper supplementation.
Probiotics can be difficult to choose and there are many options. If you want the best probiotic supplement for women here are our recommendations below. Most of the probiotic supplements highlighted in this article are chosen based on the following important criteria:
Probiotic Strains
We have included products which have strains specifically important and beneficial for women of all ages
Ingredient Quality
All the products are manufactured with premium quality ingredients and most of them are free from preservatives and artificial additives
Third Party Testing
All the products mentioned are always checked by independent labs to verify their purity and safety
Vetting
All the products and brands are always vetted to make sure that they meet guidelines for all health, medical, and business standards
Why You Should Trust Us
Every product and brand mentioned has been checked by some of the best nutritionists and vetted to make sure that they meet all the highest standards. All the products in this article adhere to federal drug authority regulations for health claims, are manufactured at GMP facilities (good manufacturing practices). All the products are manufactured by companies which follow legal and ethical standards and have credibility as well-known organizations.
Best Vaginal Health Probiotics
Pro-Fem Dr. Formulated Vaginal Probiotics by HPD Rx
Price $
Type: Vegan Capsules
This physician formulated vaginal probiotic blends the two most tested strains of probiotic GR-1 and RC-14 that have been rigorously studied for over 25 years. They help restore a balanced pH and create more good bacteria and yeast in the vaginal microbiome. Created by one of America’s leading women’s health experts. Monte Swarup, MD, a Board-Certified OB/GYN, has created these vaginal probiotics to address women’s health needs.
Pro-Fem include two patented probiotic strains that will help balance pH, eliminate odor and BV, and assist with daily feminine health needs. This product is shelf stable and does not need to be refrigerated. This product is third-party tested for quality and potency and produced in facilities that adhere to GMPs.
- Strains: Lactobacillus Rhamnosus (GR-1) and Lactobacillus Reuteri (RC-14)
- CFU count: 5 billion
- Certifications: Third-party certified and tested
- Pros: Suitable for vegans, is Gluten-free, Third-party tested, self-stable, optional subscription
- Cons: Need to take daily to get the full benefit. Starts working within 7 days.
It is undoubtedly the best probiotic for vaginal health. To learn more about Pro-Fem you can find it on Amazon:
Best Probiotic for Digestive Health
Ritual Synbiotic+
Price $$$
Type: Vegan Capsules
This supplement from Ritual is manufactured to increase the health of your gut microbiome. It comes in a packing of three in one blend of prebiotics probiotics and post biotics. Particularly this supplement provides Bifidobacterium Animalis ssp. Lactis which is a probiotic strain that has been well known to strengthen the gut barrier against infections. It is also well known to promote regularity of the human gut. This supplement also contains Lactobacillus Rhamnosus which is known to reduce a lot of symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome. It is also useful for stomachache and bloating. As with other products this supplement is shelf stable and has an important feature of delayed release capsule which optimizes the absorption time and it has been tested by an independent laboratory to make sure the accuracy of this product. One of the important features it has is that it is gluten free vegan a non-GMO. Best provided for immune health.
- Strains: Bifidobacterium Animalis ssp. Lactic, lactobacillus rhamnosus.
- CFU count: 11 billion
- Certifications: Third-party certified and tested
- Pros: Suitable for vegans, is Gluten-free, Third-party tested, self-stable, optional subscription
- Cons: expensive and may contain Prebiotics which some people need to limit or avoid.
It is undoubtedly the best probiotic for immune health.To learn more about Synbiotic+ and Ritual see our comprehensive view below:
Best Immune Health Probiotics
Klean Athlete Klean Probiotic
- Price: $$$
- Type: Vegetarian Capsules
This probiotic is one of the high-quality supplements which features eight different strains of probiotics and prebiotics which in turn support our digestive health. Thanks to the strains like Bifidobacterium longum and Lactobacillus rhamnosus, it is also very helpful in improving the immune function of our body. It can reduce inflammation thus decreasing the chances of infection. Although more research is needed. This product is also free of gluten, vegetarian and non-GMO.
Klein Athlete Klean Probiotic comprehensive view:
- Strains: Lactobacillus acidophilus, Lactobacillus Rhamnosus, Bifidobacterium lactis, lactococcus lactis, Bifidobacterium longum, Bififdobacterium bifidum/lactis, lactobacillus gasseri, streptococcus thermophilus.
- CFU count: 15 billion
- Certification: NSF had certified it for sports usage
- Pros: It is shelf stable, Vegetarian, gluten-free, third party tested, and free of substances banned in sports.
- Cons: Contains Prebiotics which may have to be in limited amounts in some people
Best Probiotic Gummies
OLLY Probiotic + Prebiotic
- Price: $$
- Type: Gummies
A very easy an effective way to increase your storage of probiotics are these Gummies from OLLY which contain a mixture of prebiotics along with a probiotic strain which has been used to decrease symptoms and improve the life quality of people with irritable bowel syndrome. As like our other probiotics these are also naturally flavoured, are gluten free and are certified by NSF international. However, one should keep in mind that these contain gelatine, so these may not be a very good choice for vegetarians, vegan’s and those people who prefer to limit their intake of foods derived from animals.
Olly Probiotic + Prebiotic comprehensive view:
- Strains: Bacillus Coagulans
- CFU Count: 500 million
- Certifications: NSF International has certified its usage
- Cons: This also Contains Prebiotics which may have to be in limited amounts in some people and this is not suitable for Vegans and vegetarians.
Best Refrigerated Probiotics
Renew Life Woman’s Probiotic Ultimate Flora
- Price: $$$
- Type: Vegetarian Capsules
This probiotic specifically provides up to 12 strains which are chosen specifically to enhance the natural diversity in the intestines to restore our digestive harmony. It also contains some of the probiotic strains which include Lactobacillus Reuteri and Lactobacillus Rhamnosus which help the body increase and enhance vaginal microbiome but to increase the shelf life of this product it should be refrigerated ideally in a cool and dry place at a temperature below 77 degrees Fahrenheit.
Although this product is still not tested by third party but this supplement is also produced in the facilities which adhere strictly to GMPs.
- Strains: Bififdobacterium lactis, Bififdobacterium infantis, lactobacillus reuteri, lactobacillus rhamnosus, lactobacillus plantarum, lactobacillus rhamnosus GG, lactobacillus lactis, lactobacillus casei, lactobacillus paracasei, lactobacillus acidophilus, Lactobacillus brevis.
- CFU Count: 25 billion
- Certifications: none
- Pros: Cost-effective, vegetarian-friendly, features delayed-release Capsules
- Cons: Not Third-party tested
How To Choose A Probiotic
Some of the important key factors which one should remember while shopping for probiotic supplement:
Intended Use
Specific probiotics are designed to work on specific health concerns for example some of the probiotics are formulated to support the digestive health specifically, some work for the betterment of immune function or reproductive health.
CFU count
The total number of colonies forming units in a supplement means the total amount of live bacteria it contains. Most of the supplements available in market provide nearly 1 to 10 billion CFU per serving.
Storage needs
Most of the probiotics are shelf stable and these can be stored at normal or room temperature meanwhile others need proper refrigeration because of their sensitivity to increased temperatures and moisture.
Third party testing
Selecting a probiotic which has been tested already by an independent laboratory makes people satisfied as a third-party organization ensures its strength and its quality along with the safety for its usage.
Dietary restrictions
Some of the products are certified gluten-free or vegan which is considered good for some people which have strict dietary needs. One should keep in mind that not more than two microbiomes are similar and different probiotics can affect people differently.
When to see a healthcare professional
It is very important to talk with a healthcare professional before you start taking probiotics. If you have any underlying health condition or disease but if you are taking any medications, you should always consult your trusted healthcare professional. Your doctor can help you choose a product that is best for you based according to your specific needs and goals. While most of the probiotics can be very beneficial for a lot of conditions, they should not be used as a substitute for medical treatment.If you have symptoms and digestive side effects such as stomach cramps, diarrhea, and pain along with nausea when first taking probiotics you should stop taking the product and consult a healthcare professional.
Frequently Asked Probiotics Questions
Probiotics can increase the number of healthy microorganisms in your intestines which in turn play a vital role in keeping your immune function and digestive health to the optimum level. Probiotics are also important for balancing the vaginal microbiome which is beneficial in for bacterial vaginosis treatment.
What Are The Best Probiotic A Woman Can Take?
As described above, the best probiotic to take depends upon the specific needs and goals of a person. While some women need supplements to improve the vaginal health and support of pH balance, others may need a probiotic with specific strains that can promote immunity and digestive health.
What Are Signs To See That You Need Probiotics?
Most people don’t need a probiotic supplement but if someone does not consume the proper amounts of probiotics in foods such as kefir, sauerkraut, kimchi, or miso, then a supplement usage can be very helpful.
After someone has used antibiotics for an infection, probiotic supplements can restore the gut bacteria and prevent symptoms that are associated with antibiotic usage such as diarrhoea. Probiotics can also be useful for the management of diseases such as irritable bowel syndrome, ulcerated colitis, and certain digestive conditions.
Is It Safe To Use Probiotics During Pregnancy?
Most of the studies suggest the use of probiotics are safe and associated with few adverse effects during pregnancy. However, it is best to consult a doctor before starting probiotics during pregnancy. In addition to recommending the best and safest products a healthcare professional will provide guidance according to your specific needs.
