From the Guidelines
The most effective probiotic supplement during pregnancy is a combination of Lactobacillus spp and Bifidobacterium spp, with a recommended dosage of 1-10 billion CFU daily, as supported by moderate to high-quality evidence from recent studies 1.
Key Probiotic Strains
The most beneficial strains for pregnant women include:
- Lactobacillus rhamnosus ATCC 53103
- Lactobacillus acidophilus
- Bifidobacterium longum subsp infantis
- Bifidobacterium animalis subsp lactis
- Lactobacillus reuteri (DSM 17938 or ATCC 55730) These strains have been shown to reduce the risk of gestational diabetes, preeclampsia, and vaginal infections, while potentially decreasing the risk of allergies and eczema in offspring 1.
Dosage and Administration
A daily dosage of 1-10 billion CFU is recommended, taken with food to improve survival through stomach acid. Multi-strain formulations may offer broader benefits than single-strain supplements.
Safety and Precautions
Most commercial probiotic supplements are generally recognized as safe during pregnancy, but it's essential to consult with a healthcare provider before starting any supplement regimen, especially if you have underlying health conditions or a compromised immune system.
Mechanism of Action
Probiotics work by maintaining healthy gut microbiota balance, strengthening intestinal barriers, and modulating immune responses, which can lead to improved outcomes for both mother and child 1.
From the Research
Probiotic Supplement Recommendations During Pregnancy
The use of probiotics during pregnancy has been studied for their potential benefits in preventing adverse pregnancy outcomes and promoting maternal and fetal health.
- Probiotics are generally considered safe for use during pregnancy and lactation, with most studies showing that they are well-tolerated and have minimal adverse effects 2, 3.
- However, it is essential to choose probiotic products that have been specifically designed and tested for use in pregnant and lactating women, as their efficacy and safety claims may vary 2.
- Some studies have investigated the use of specific probiotic strains, such as Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG (LGG), during pregnancy.
- One study found that prenatal treatment with LGG was not sufficient to prevent eczema in infants, suggesting that postnatal treatment or alternative probiotic strains may be necessary 4.
- LGG has been extensively studied for its potential health benefits, including its ability to survive and proliferate in the gut, produce beneficial soluble factors, and promote type 1 immune-responsiveness 5.
- Another study found that a combination of LGG and Bifidobacterium animalis subsp. lactis, BB-12 had a limited effect on biomarkers of immunity and inflammation in older people, but may improve the response to seasonal influenza vaccination 6.
Key Considerations for Probiotic Use During Pregnancy
When considering probiotic use during pregnancy, it is crucial to:
- Consult with a healthcare professional to determine the best course of treatment and choose a probiotic product that has been specifically designed and tested for use in pregnant and lactating women.
- Be aware of the potential risks and benefits of probiotic use during pregnancy, and monitor for any adverse effects.
- Choose probiotic products that have been convincingly tested in pregnant and lactating women, and opt for those that have been designed for the specific target or condition being experienced or at risk of 2.