From the Research
Lactobacillus is a beneficial bacteria that does not require treatment, and its presence is actually crucial for maintaining vaginal health by producing lactic acid that keeps the vaginal pH acidic. If you're experiencing vaginal symptoms like discharge, odor, or irritation, these are likely caused by other conditions such as bacterial vaginosis, yeast infection, or trichomoniasis—not by lactobacilli. In cases where the normal vaginal flora needs to be restored, probiotics containing Lactobacillus species (particularly L. crispatus, L. jensenii, and L. gasseri) may be recommended, either as oral supplements or vaginal suppositories, as supported by a study published in 2021 1. These can help reestablish a healthy vaginal microbiome, especially after antibiotic treatment or during recurrent vaginal infections. Some key points to consider when treating vaginal lactobacillus include:
- The use of probiotics to restore the normal vaginal flora, as shown in a study published in 2016 2
- The importance of maintaining a healthy vaginal pH, which can be achieved through the use of probiotics or other acidifying agents, as discussed in a study published in 2020 3
- The potential benefits of long-term vaginal administration of Lactobacillus rhamnosus, as investigated in a study published in 2010 4 It's essential to consult a healthcare provider for proper diagnosis and treatment, as they may perform tests to determine the actual cause of your symptoms. In the context of bacterial vaginosis, a study published in 2012 5 found that combining oral metronidazole with vaginal clindamycin or a Lactobacillus acidophilus vaginal probiotic did not reduce the recurrence of BV. However, the most recent and highest-quality study, published in 2021 1, found that continuous use of vaginal probiotics is equally effective as short repetitive courses in terms of cure rates and prevention of relapse. Therefore, the most effective treatment approach may involve a combination of standard therapies, such as metronidazole or clindamycin, with probiotics or other alternative strategies to restore the normal vaginal flora and prevent recurrence.