9 Best Probiotics For Breastfeeding Moms (2023 UPDATED)
The results of probiotic studies vary over the years, and they even have conflicting results. Still, there have been several that show the positive effects of good bacteria for breastfeeding moms and their babies.
In this article, I’m sharing with you my top 9 favorite probiotics for nursing moms, and tips on how you can pick the best one to suit your needs.
Summary of my top 3 probiotics for breastfeeding moms:
- Optibac Probiotics Pregnancy Probiotics (Best Probiotic with Trusted Friendly Bacteria) – a product with 12 billion CFUs and three probiotic strains that include two strains known to reach the vaginal tract
- LoveBug Probiotics – Postnatal Probiotic (Best Probiotic with 20 Billion CFU) – a product with 20 billion CFUs and eight strains; also includes common galactagogues (foods that increase breast milk supply) such as fenugreek seeds, fennel seeds, milk thistle seeds, oat straw extract, and marshmallow root
- Mama’s Select: Probiotics “The SuperBiotic” (Best Probiotic for Moms and Babies) – a product with 10 CFUs and nine strains; also allergen-free
Continue reading for a more detailed explanation of these probiotics for lactating mothers and the rest of our favorite choices below.
My Criteria for Choosing the Best Probiotics for Nursing Moms
1. Consider What You Need
Not all probiotics are created equal. Some have higher CFUs (colony-forming units) than others, and different products can have different probiotic strains.
Because different strains can work for different conditions, determine whether you’re looking for the best probiotic for pregnancy yeast infection or something to help you produce more milk while breastfeeding.
The good news is that it’s often alright to take probiotics while breastfeeding and on antibiotics, but always make sure to consult with your doctor before taking anything during pregnancy and lactation.
For example, a clinical trial as far back as 2008 showed that Lactobacillus salivarius CECT5713 and Lactobacillus gasseri CECT5714 can be efficient as an alternative treatment of lactational infectious mastitis for breastfeeding moms.
2. Choose a Trusted Brand (to Ensure Safety and Effectiveness)
Several studies have shown that probiotics can be safely used by pregnant and lactating mothers.
However, since a little one depends on you during these nurturing moments of your life, it’s always best to be extra careful in whatever you’re taking.
That’s why it’s good to choose a trusted brand so that you’re assured of quality ingredients and a safe formulation.
3. High CFUs are Good But Be Careful About Very High Ones
Having a high CFU (10-20 billion) is good because that can ensure that there are enough live bacteria to reach your small intestines.
However, be wary of products with 50 billion or 100 billion. The higher number might be too much for pregnant and lactating moms.
Only take these products with your doctor’s approval.
You can find below my favorite choices for the 9 best probiotics while breastfeeding. Continue reading to learn about their details.
Which Probiotics Are Best For Breastfeeding Moms? My Top 9 Choices
1. Optibac Probiotics Pregnancy Probiotics (Best Probiotic with Trusted Friendly Bacteria)
CFU: 12 billion
Dosage: 1 capsule per day
Probiotics Strains/Strains: 3 strains
- Lactobacillus rhamnosus HN001 (also called Lacticaseibacillus rhamnosus HN001)
- Lactobacillus acidophilus La-14
- Bifidobacterium lactis HN019
Form/Type: Capsule
Certifications: Not indicated
Storage: Shelf-stable; refrigeration not required
Cost: $24.99 for 30 capsules; with a 10% discount for a subscription
This blend features well-researched probiotic strains that have been used in clinical trials specifically in women. They’re known to support immune, gut, and vaginal health throughout pregnancy and during breastfeeding and post-birth.
The three probiotic strains used in this blend are also popularly used by many brands (not just for women’s products) because they’re known to reach the gut.
According to Optibac Probiotics, the strains Lactobacillus rhamnosus HN001 and Lactobacillus acidophilus La-14 are also known to reach the vaginal tract.
These probiotic strains make this product ideal for keeping pregnant and nursing moms from developing UTIs (urinary tract infections). After all, they might not be able to take antibiotics to treat the medical condition because these can affect their unborn or nursing baby.
Aside from positive effects on the gut and vaginal tract, this blend also has beneficial immune effects for the mother and her baby.
Pros
- Vegan-friendly
- Dairy-free
- Gluten-free
- Soy-free
- Yeast-free
- Free from chemicals or parabens
- Free from artificial colorings, flavorings, and preservatives
- Free from GMOs (genetically modified organisms)
- Suitable in pregnancy
- Suitable for breastfeeding
Cons
- Contains FOS (fructooligosaccharides) prebiotic fibers, which is actually good for most people but not ideal if you have IBS (irritable bowel syndrome)
Where to Buy
- Optibac Probiotics official website: $24.99 (30 capsules; one month’s supply); with a 10% discount for a subscription
- Amazon: $24.99 (30 capsules)
2. LoveBug Probiotics – Postnatal Probiotic (Best Probiotic with 20 Billion CFU)
CFU: 20 billion
Dosage: 1 capsule per day
Probiotics Strains/Strains: 8 strains
- Lactobacillus plantarum
- Bifidobacterium bifidum
- Bifidobacterium infantis
- Lactobacillus reuteri
- Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG
- Lactobacillus acidophilus
- Lactobacillus fermentum
Form/Type: Capsule
Certifications: Not indicated
Storage: Shelf-stable; refrigeration not required
Cost: $24.26 for 30 capsules (one month’s supply); discounts given if you buy more bottles: buy 2 bottles, pay only $22.32 per bottle, or buy 3 bottles, pay only $20.62 per bottle
One of the best probiotics for breastfeeding mothers, this blend features fenugreek seeds, fennel seeds, milk thistle seeds, oat straw extract, and marshmallow root, which are believed to help nursing moms produce more milk and provide acid reflux relief.
This brand also made sure that this blend is allergen-free to make it safer for lactating mothers and their babies.
What I love about this brand is that it also includes vitamins D, B6, and B12, which are essential for moms and can also support babies’ growth and development.
They also offer a 100% money-back guarantee if you aren’t satisfied with their products.
Pros
- Allergen-free (tested to ensure it’s free from the 8 major allergens)
- Free from GMOs
- Free from artificial colors and flavors
Cons
- Contains fenugreek and milk thistle seeds; these are usually considered herbal remedies to increase breast milk supply, but some moms also reported experiencing the opposite effect (lowered milk supply)
Where to Buy
- LoveBug Probiotics official website: $24.26 (30 capsules); discounts for buying more bottles: 2 bottles at $22.32 each or 3 bottles at $20.62 each
- Amazon: $25.95 (30 capsules)
3. Mama’s Select: Probiotics “The SuperBiotic” (Best Probiotic for Moms and Babies)
CFU: 10 billion
Dosage: 1 capsule per day; best taken with meals
Probiotics Strains/Strains: 9 strains
- Lactobacillus acidophilus
- Lactobacillus plantarum
- Lactobacillus salivarius
- Lactobacillus gasseri
- Bifidobacterium breve
- Bifidobacterium lactis
- Bifidobacterium longum
- Bifidobacterium bifidum
- Bifidobacterium infantis
Form/Type: Capsule
Certifications: GMP certified (Good Manufacturing Practice)
Storage: Shelf-stable; refrigeration not required
Cost: $24.77 for 60 capsules; get a 10% discount if you buy at least 3 bottles
This blend provides both prenatal and postnatal support, so you can start taking this during pregnancy for the best results.
What’s great about this product is that it can provide the best benefits for both mom and baby. The brand claims that this blend helps promote gut health, provides immunity, and balances the intestinal flora, while also helping prevent common abnormalities.
It’s also formulated to be free from the most common allergens for the safety of both the pregnant or nursing mom and her little one.
Pros
- Gluten-free and wheat-free
- Peanut-free
- Tree nut-free
- Egg-free
- Dairy-free
- Soy-free
- Fish-free
- Shellfish-free
- Allergen-friendly
- Maltodextrin-free
Cons
- Some complaints on Amazon about the product causing stomach pain or reducing their milk supply
Where to Buy
- Mama’s Select official website: $24.77 (60 capsules); 10% discount if you get at least 3 bottles
- Amazon: currently unavailable but might be in stock soon
4. Hyperbiotics PRO-Moms Probiotics for Expecting & Nursing Women (Best Probiotic with 10 Strains and 15x More Survivability)
CFU: 5 billion
Dosage: 1 tablet per day, but can be increased up to 3 tablets with your doctor’s advice and approval; can be taken with or without food
Probiotics Strains/Strains:
- Lactobacillus fermentum
- Lactobacillus plantarum
- Lactobacillus acidophilus
- Bifidobacterium infantis
- Lactobacillus reuteri
- Lactobacillus rhamnosus
Form/Type: Time-release tablets
Certifications: Not indicated
Storage: Shelf-stable; no refrigeration required
Cost: $26.99 for 30 tablets; get a 10% discount if you subscribe (pay only $24.29 per bottle)
This premium probiotic supplement is ideal for pregnant and breastfeeding moms, with a proprietary blend that ensures 15x more survivability.
Each tablet is designed to release the probiotic organisms over a period of 8-10 hours, ensuring that they’re already in the intestines where they’re needed the most.
Created with kiwifruit and using a blend that includes Bifidobacterium infantis and Lactobacillus plantarum, this probiotic can help produce folate naturally. This non-synthetic, natural version of folic acid is important in helping your baby’s brain and spinal cord development.
Pros
- Vegan formula
- Free from GMOs
- Dairy-free
- Gluten-free
- Soy-free
- Nut-free
- Free from added sugars, artificial flavors and colors, and preservatives
- Also free from active yeast
Cons
- The CFU count is only guaranteed on the manufacturing date, but the brand only guarantees around 1.5 billion at the expiration date (some brands guarantee the same CFU number even on the expiry date)
Where to Buy
- Hyperbiotics official website: $26.99 (30 tablets); 10% discount with a subscription (only $24.29 per bottle)
- Amazon: $25.64 (30 tablets)
5. Biomeology Probiotics for Pregnancy, Postpartum, and Breastfeeding (Best Probiotic with a Quality Guarantee)
CFU: 10 billion
Dosage: 1 capsule per day
Probiotics Strains/Strains: 6 strains
- Lactobacillus rhamnosus HN00
- Lactobacillus acidophilus
- Bifidobacterium bifidum
- Bifidobacterium infantis
- Bifidobacterium lactis
- Bifidobacterium longum
Form/Type: Delayed-release vegetarian capsule
Certifications: Purity tested by independent 3rd-party labs
Storage: Shelf-stable; stored refrigerated before shipment for maximum potency, but doesn’t require refrigeration
Cost: $44.95 for 30 capsules; get a 15% discount if you subscribe
This doctor-formulated blend has a high concentration of Lactobacillus rhamnosus HN001 that can help you manage chronic constipation, gas or bloating, and other embarrassing or uncomfortable “gut issues” affecting women throughout pregnancy and lactation.
The good bacteria strains in this blend are also ideal for promoting a strong microbiome for mom and baby.
What I really love about this blend is that it can help promote nutrient absorption, to help ensure that you get the biggest benefits or impact for your probiotic supplement.
It’s also formulated to be gentle for mothers with sensitive tummies.
Pros
- Free from fillers, additives, and questionable probiotic strains
Cons
- Pricier than the other probiotics on our list
Where to Buy
- Bimeology official website: $44.95 (30 capsules); additional 15% discount with subscription
- Amazon: $40.56 (30 capsules)
6. Garden of Life Dr. Formulated Probiotics Once Daily Prenatal (Best for Probiotic with 16 Strains)
CFU: 20 billion
Dosage: 1 capsule per day
Probiotics Strains/Strains: 16 strains
- Lactobacillus acidophilus
- Lactobacillus rhamnosus
- Lactobacillus rhamnosus HN001
- Lactobacillus plantarum
- Lactobacillus bulgaricus
- Lactobacillus paracasei
- Lactobacillus brevis
- Lactobacillus casei
- Lactobacillus gasseri
- Lactobacillus reuteri
- Lactobacillus salivarius
- Bifidobacterium bifidum
- Bifidobacterium longum
- Bifidobacterium infantis
- Bifidobacterium breve
- Bifidobacterium lactis
Form/Type: Capsule
Certifications: Non-GMO Project Verified and Certified NSF Gluten-free (National Sanitation Foundation Institute)
Storage: Shelf-stable; refrigeration not required
Cost: $23.19 for 30 capsules
This product has an organic prebiotic fiber blend that perfectly complements the 16 probiotic strains, including the clinically studied probiotic Lactobacillus rhamnosus HN001.
What I love about this brand is that the CFU count (probiotic potency) is guaranteed through expiration. That means that you really get what you’re paying for, whether the item you got is newly produced or near the expiration date.
Like most of the blends on my list, this one is also ideal for both pregnancy and lactation. The earlier you start using this product, the better outcome you might experience. However, be sure to consult with your doctor before starting this product during pregnancy or when you’re nursing your little one.
Pros
- Vegetarian
- Dairy-free
- Soy-free
- Also free from carriers, artificial colors, sweeteners, flavors, and preservatives
Cons
- Some complaints on Amazon about feeling nauseous or experiencing diarrhea after taking this product
Where to Buy
- Garden of Life official website: $23.19 (30 capsules)
- Amazon: $20.29 (30 capsules)
7. ProVen Probiotics for Pregnancy (Best Probiotic for Reduce Eczema and Allergic Sensitization)
CFU: 10 billion
Dosage: 1 capsule per day; preferably taken with food
Probiotics Strains/Strains: 4 strains
- Bifidobacterium animalis subsp. Lactis CUL34
- Bifidobacterium bifidum CUL20
- Lactobacillus salivarius CUL61
- Lactobacillus paracasei CUL08
Form/Type: Capsule
Certifications: Not indicated
Storage: Shelf-stable; refrigeration not required
Cost: $24.95 for 30 capsules; additional discount with a subscription: 3 packs every 3 months at 5% off or 6 packs every 6 months at 10% off
This blend can be suitable for pregnant and nursing moms. That’s why it’s a good idea to start early by taking it during pregnancy. However, be sure to ask your doctor before starting any supplements or medications during pregnancy and lactation.
What I really love about this brand is that it offers calcium and vitamin C, both of which can help a pregnant or nursing mom maintain healthy bones and teeth, while also helping develop your baby’s bones.
The brand claims that this blend can also reduce eczema and allergic sensitization to any allergen in little babies and children, based on the landmark Swansea Baby Study.
Pros
- Gluten-free
- Lactose-free
- Vegetarian-friendly
- Kosher-friendly
Cons
- Limited options to buy this online
Where to Buy
- Proven Probiotics official website: $24.95 (30 capsules); discounted with a subscription: 5% off for 3 packs or 10% off for 6 packs
8. Pink Stork Prenatal Probiotic (Formulated and Produced by Women)
CFU: 6.2 billion
Dosage: 1 capsule per day; best taken with food
Probiotics Strains/Strains: 7 strains
- Bacillus subtilis
- Lactobacillus acidophilus
- Bifidobacterium bifidum
- Bifidobacterium longum
- Streptococcus thermophilus
- Lactobacillus bulgaricus
- Lactobacillus paracasei
Form/Type: Capsule
Certifications: Third-party tested
Storage: Shelf-stable; refrigeration not required
Cost: $32 for 30 capsules; available for a discount with a subscription: 20% off or $25.60 per bottle
The perfect probiotic for pregnant and lactating moms, this blend also provides morning sickness relief aside from helping improve digestion.
Intended for use during pregnancy and lactation, this probiotic blend can also support your baby’s immune system while keeping you healthy during and after pregnancy.
Still, be sure to ask for your doctor’s approval before you start on this or any other probiotic and supplement while you’re pregnant or nursing a baby.
The company also takes pride in mentioning that they’re a women-run company, with products that are formulated and made by women, to create the best products for women.
Pros
- Gluten-free and wheat-free
- Dairy-free
- Soy-free
- Free from GMOs
Cons
- Some customers complained about product issues on Amazon, including having some open or empty capsules inside the bottle or experiencing difficulty in swallowing the capsule
Where to Buy
- Pink Stork official website: $32 (30 capsules); 20% discounted rate with a subscription or $25.60 per bottle
- Amazon: $27.99 (30 capsules)
9. Legendairy Milk Lacta-Biotic (Best for Breast Pain and Dysbiosis)
CFU: 3 billion
Dosage: 1 capsule; can be taken with food or between meals
Probiotics Strains/Strains: Lactobacillus fermentum CECT5716
Form/Type: Capsule
Certifications: Not indicated
Storage: Shelf-stable; refrigeration not required
Cost: $36.99 for 30 capsules; available at a discounted rate of $27.99 per bottle if you get a subscription
This blend is specially formulated for breast pain and dysbiosis, allowing you to ease breast discomfort due to various reasons, including engorgement. It promotes breast health and comfort during lactation.
It can also be helpful for moms suffering from nipple pain, possibly due to ill-fitting breast shields or pump shields.
Because this blend can also promote breast milk production, you might consider taking it during the last trimester of pregnancy. However, be sure to talk to your doctor before taking this probiotic blend or any other supplement and medication while pregnant or nursing your baby.
Aside from promoting a healthier gut, this blend also helps strengthen your immune system, support healthy weight and growth for moms and babies, and improve the healthy bacteria in your breast.
Pros
- Vegetarian capsule
Cons
- Contains added sugar and maltodextrin
- No information was provided on what allergens it might contain
Where to Buy
- Legendairy official website: $36.99 (30 capsules); discount offered with a subscription at $27.99 per bottle
- Amazon: $36.99 (30 capsules)
Probiotics While Breastfeeding
Health Benefits of Probiotics During Breastfeeding
Despite studies on probiotics having conflicting results, these have long been known to offer benefits related to digestion and maintaining regular bowel movements.
Because straining from constipation can be uncomfortable and diarrhea can be potentially dangerous to pregnant women, avoiding these through probiotic use is a good decision throughout pregnancy.
Although these concerns aren’t so crucial when you’re already breastfeeding, it’s still good to maintain regular bowel movements instead of suffering from constipation or diarrhea. This is particularly important within the first few weeks after giving birth, for faster postpartum recovery.
According to the American Pregnancy Association, these are some of the benefits of probiotics:
- Alleviate infection diarrhea or antibiotic-related diarrhea
- Prevent and alleviate the symptoms of IBS (Irritable bowel syndrome) and inflammatory bowel disease; however, be sure to check the label to avoid products with chicory root inulin because this might trigger IBS symptoms in some people
Aside from these gut-related conditions, the Association adds that probiotics might also help alleviate:
- Bacterial vaginosis
- Eczema (studies show conflicting results)
- Pediatric atopic dermatitis (chronic or long-lasting skin inflammation, redness, itching, and irritation)
Are Probiotics during Breastfeeding Effective and Safe?
The American Pregnancy Association reminds us that although probiotics are probably safe for use during pregnancy and breastfeeding, they still can’t be declared as completely safe due to limited data and research.
Some recent studies, such as the 2021 research published in the Nutrients journal, showed that nutritional supplements with probiotics can alter the breast milk microbiome or the infant gut microbiome.
However, the results are still conflicting and would require further studies, especially because some studies also show that there aren’t significant differences in the bacterial diversity or increased good bacteria count in women supplementing with probiotics.
As of the moment, due to these conflicting studies and data, there still aren’t any probiotics approved by the FDA. Still, based on experience and our gut health statistics, millions of people are already using probiotics.
However, for the safety of both mom and child, always consult your doctor before taking any kind of probiotic or supplement, just to be on the safe side.
Potential Side Effects of Probiotics While Breastfeeding
Again, this can vary among individuals, but some potential side effects of probiotic use while nursing include:
- Stomach upset or diarrhea
- Stomachache
- Constipation
- Vomiting
- Nausea
- Allergies (if you’re allergic to an ingredient)
Some moms even notice that their milk production is reduced instead of enjoying better production.
Still, many people don’t experience any side effects from probiotic use. If you experience any, be sure to consult your doctor, especially if the effects are severe.
Which Probiotics (Strains & Ingredients) Should Breastfeeding Moms Avoid?
If you’re allergic to something, be sure to check the ingredients of the probiotics you’re planning to take. Most probiotics these days are allergen-free; however, it’s still a good idea to check just to be sure.
The same goes if you’re lactose-intolerant. Be sure that the probiotic doesn’t contain dairy or isn’t based on a dairy product.
It’s also best to avoid probiotics that are made for men because these might have a negative effect on your breast milk production. That’s why it’s always important to read the label and also consult your doctor about it.
How Soon Do Probiotics Work in Breastfeeding?
Different people react differently to various supplements and medications. However, most people experience the positive effects of probiotics with continued use for at least a week or two.
Essential Facts About Probiotics When Breastfeeding
- Breast milk remains one of the best sources of nutrients for babies, including probiotics. A study shows that Staphylococcus, Streptococcus, and Pseudomonas, are the predominant bacterial groups in breast milk.
- In the 2017 study, it was also shown that identical strains of probiotics Lactobacillus plantarum and Bifidobacterium breve were isolated and matched from the moms’ breastmilk and their babies’ fecal samples. This could mean that the probiotics were passed from the moms to their babies.
- Other common strains found in breast milk can include Lactobacillus, Lactococcus, Bifidobacterium, Corynebacterium, and Cutibacterium (formerly known as Propionibacterium), according to the 2020 review in the Frontiers in Cellular and Infection Microbiology journal.
- However, the 2020 review also points out that the factors that affect the human milk microbiome remain unknown, and scientists still have no specific explanation for why breast milk content varies from one mom to another.
- Persistent or regular use of probiotics can enhance the immunoprotective potentials of breast milk, such as providing protection against atopic eczema for your baby during the first 2 years of life. That’s based on the results of a clinical trial published in The Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology as far back as 2002.
- Still, there are also studies pointing out that despite probiotics showing positive effects or changes in a mom’s breast milk composition, they’re unlikely to be directly transferred to the baby through breastfeeding. That’s what a 2011 study published in the Canadian Family Physician Journal discovered.
Because of these conflicting facts and study results, it’s best to ask for your doctor’s advice and guidance.
FAQs
Is Yakult OK for Breastfeeding Moms?
Yes. Most moms find Yakult as a safe and delicious source of probiotics while breastfeeding. Because it’s readily available in various locations and is a popular probiotic drink, it’s also easily accessible to nursing moms.
But in case you experience a side effect while taking Yakult, immediately stop using it and consult your doctor.
What is the Best Probiotic to Prevent Thrush While Breastfeeding?
Lactobacillus reuteri, Lactobacillus casei, and Lactobacillus rhamnosus are some of the probiotics that might help prevent and alleviate the symptoms of thrush while breastfeeding, according to Naturopathic Pediatrics.
Some practitioners might recommend applying probiotic powder or yogurt with these Lactobacillus species directly inside the baby’s cheeks or directly on the mom’s nipples.
What Probiotic Foods are Best for Breastfeeding Mothers?
Yogurt remains as a popular and yummy choice of probiotic-rich foods for nursing moms. Be sure to pick yogurt that’s low in sugar content. Some yogurts even come packed with calcium and vitamin D to promote healthy bones (for moms and babies).
Other favorite probiotic-rich foods for lactating mothers:
- Soft cheeses
- Kefir (fermented dairy product)
- Kimchi (a Korean side dish made from fermented cabbage)
- Sauerkraut (also made from fermented cabbage, but can also be other vegetables)
- Miso (traditional Japanese seasoning)
- Tempeh (traditional Indonesian soy product)
What Dosage Of Probiotics For Breastfeeding Should I Take?
Check your probiotic product’s label. Most probiotics recommend taking just one tablet or capsule per day. You shouldn’t exceed the recommended dose unless recommended by your physician.
How To Increase Probiotics In Breast Milk?
Supplementation with probiotic products or eating foods rich in probiotics might help increase probiotics in your breast milk.
However, this isn’t guaranteed. The studies mentioned above have also shown conflicting results, with some indicating that the probiotic content of breast milk might not be directly influenced by maternal probiotic intake.
Can the Best Probiotics Increase Breast Milk Supply?
It is possible for probiotic products to increase your breast milk supply. Again, however, this isn’t guaranteed – and different women can also respond differently to probiotic intake, even to products that contain common galactagogues (foods that increase breast milk supply), such as fenugreek and fennel.
Can Taking Probiotics While Breastfeeding Make Baby Gassy Or Help With Colic and Acid Reflux?
This can also vary. Some moms reported that their babies became gassy when they were taking probiotics but others also said that it helped alleviate their baby’s colic and acid reflux.
If you notice any changes or discomfort with your baby when you’re taking probiotics, stop using them and consult your doctor before continuing your probiotic intake.
