Should a Woman Take a Probiotic Daily? (see why)

Like the gut microbiome, women also have a specific vaginal microbiome that protects and maintains their well-being.

Hence, daily intake of certain bacteria like Lactobacillus species may help to treat and recover vaginal dysbiosis, which may help improve women’s health outcomes. Apart from this, like men, women can also benefit from the overall health-boosting potential of probiotics in most cases.

Therefore, in this article, I will discuss the dosage recommendation and the benefits of daily probiotic intake for women. 

So, keep reading to find out all this and more.

What are The Signs You Need Probiotics as a Female?

If you are still skeptical about taking probiotics, then here are your signs of swallowing up some good bacteria to help with your feminine health problems.

You’re Getting Recurrent Vaginal Infections

If you are bothered by an itchy, painful vagina or vulva, vaginal rash, pain while urinating, or an unusual vaginal discharge that is either thick, watery, white, or odorless, then this may be your sign to up your probiotic intake.

The probiotics can increase the ratio of good bacteria in your vagina so that they can counter the yeast causing these symptoms.

You’re Suffering from UTIs

If you often suffer from UTI symptoms like frequent and urgent urination, abdominal pain, and burning sensation while peeing, or smelly, cloudy, dark, or bloody urine, then in addition to increasing your water, spending on probiotics may also help.

You’ve Reached Your Menopause

If you are done with your menstruating days but are now facing different health issues like osteoporosis, mood swings, decreasing cardiometabolic health, and hormonal imbalance, then this is your sign to start taking probiotics to improve your quality of life.

How Often Should a Woman Take Probiotics Supplements?

According to the NIH consumer factsheet, there are no official probiotic dosing recommendations for healthy individuals, which includes women. 

The reason behind this is that probiotic dosing highly depends on the strain or health condition of the individual. There might be different probiotic regimes that can improve vaginal health, maternal health, etc. Hence, a generalized dose for all the available probiotics cannot be stated.

Moreover, due to ethical considerations, no studies have been performed to identify the best dose for retaining wellness in healthy women.

Thus, all the available scientific data checks the disease-specific response of probiotics.

Nonetheless, you may follow the product’s suggested use or consult your healthcare provider for his or her suggestion on the duration, quantity, and probiotic strain or product that is best suited to your needs.

However, if you really want a recommendation to lead on your daily probiotic intake to optimize your health, then here is what I found from skimming through different studies:

Taking a 10-20 billion CFU/ dose at least once daily, either 30 minutes before or simultaneously with a high-fat meal or drink such as milk, can prove to be effective in supporting and maintaining immune and digestive health.

For instance, according to the CDC, it is safe to take 1 or 2 capsules (250mg) of S. boulardii (yeast) 1 to 2 times daily.

Why Should Women Take Probiotics Daily??

The effects of regular probiotic intake on intestinal microflora are unclear to date and require more research. But nonetheless, probiotics appear to confer more transient changes instead of inducing long-term modifications to the gut microflora. 

Hence, you might need to continue your daily intake of probiotics all your life to keep benefiting from their positive outcomes if you observe any.

Here are some positive and negative effects that you may observe from regular consumption of probiotics.

Positive Effects on Women of Taking Probiotics Daily

• Daily consumption of probiotics is beneficial in stabilizing the gut. Hence, it helps relieve antibiotic or clostridium-associated diarrhea and Inflammatory Bowel Syndrome (IBS) or Irritable Bowel Disease (IBD).
• They also help to treat and prevent metabolic disorders such as diabetes, hypertension, obesity, or dyslipidemia.
• Moreover, studies have shown that probiotic cultured milk and lactic acid bacteria chemically inhibit tumor growth in animals.
• Moving on, probiotics strengthen the immune system, and their daily consumption may alleviate the symptoms of autoimmune diseases, allergies, and AIDS.
• Additionally, it may improve the skin, gum, or reproductive health of different individuals.

Negative Effects

• Sometimes, probiotics may trigger diseases in people with severe illnesses or compromised immune systems.
• Also, they may cause Small intestine Bacterial overgrowth (SIBO), which occurs when bacteria from the large intestine cross into the small intestine.
• Certain bacteria that are used as probiotics may contain antibiotic-resistance genes, which may get passed down to others.
• Probiotic supplements may cause allergies as they may have traces of soy, lactose, gluten, etc.

User Experience

Apart from scientific studies, the user experience varies greatly so, we can’t rule out a lack of results or the occurrence of adverse effects.

Reddit users also have mixed reviews on the effect of daily probiotic intake.

This is evident from this Reddit thread initiated by ‘Crossfitking18’ in which he asked for the people’s opinion on taking probiotics.

To this, a user ‘digitalkiwi’ shared that probiotics relieved his gut issues, especially the antibiotic-associated side effects after regular intake.

Apart from this, another replier ‘longwinters’ shared that for him, the 50 billion HDS probiotics were far more effective in reducing his anxiety levels compared to selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (anti-anxiety medicine). 

Similarly, he observed that his skin got better with bio Gaia’s probiotic, which is sourced from human breast milk.

Compared to this, ‘chlo_nb’ shared a different perspective as probiotics didn’t do much for her, but they did benefit her junk-eating husband greatly. 

Hence proved that user experience may vary.

Related: Can You Take Probiotics While Breastfeeding?

What Do Probiotics Do For a Woman? (Benefits)

Like the gut microbiome, the vaginal microbiome of women plays a crucial role in supporting women’s sexual and reproductive health. In addition to this, taking probiotics may also improve overall health.

Here is why:

Reduce the risk of vaginal infection

A well-established and stable vaginal microflora protects women against bacterial and yeast infections of the vulva and vagina, such as bacterial vaginosis (BV) and vulvovaginal candidiasis (VVC).

Keeping this in view, scientists have conducted many clinical trials to check the potential of probiotics for vaginal health.

Correspondingly, a review paper was published in 2020 which discussed the potential of probiotics to treat vaginitis (abnormal discharge from the vagina) caused by BV and VVC.

In the paper, the researchers explain that BV is caused by the depletion of the Lactobacillus specie in the vagina or due to an overgrowth of pathogenic anaerobic bacteria like Gardnerella vaginalis.

This is because an abundance of the Lactobacillus specie in the vaginal microbiome contributes to various protective mechanisms there.

For instance, they produce bacterial toxins and lower the vaginal pH to 4.5 or less, which inhibits the growth of pathogenic bacteria and Candida albicans (yeast), ultimately preventing BV and VVC.

For the same reason, a study observed positive results in women who were administered the probiotic bacteria L. acidophilus, L. rhamnosus, or L. fermentum in doses over 10⁸ CFU for two months.

UTI protection

Urinary Tract Infection (UTI) is another common concern among women. 

In 85% of the cases, the causative agent is the E. coli bacteria which ascends from the gut.

Yet again, results of randomized control trials prove that consuming different freeze-dried Lactobacillus strains once every week or every day may restore the lactobacilli barrier in the vagina. This prevents the recurrence of UTIs.

Improved bone health in post-menopausal women

Osteoporosis is a major concern among post-menopausal women. Therefore, scientists have been exploring various treatment strategies, including the use of probiotics for relief.

The reason why post-menopausal women are at greater risk is that a drop in their estrogen levels may accelerate their bone loss. Consequently, this may increase their risk of fracture, especially in the hip and spine.

But gladly, a 2021 meta-analysis identified five randomized control trials that showed that daily probiotic supplementation for 24 weeks to a year greatly improves the bone mineral density of the lower spine and reduces the bone resorption rate in the women participants.

Here again, the benefit of probiotic strains like Lactobacillus sp. in bone health may be attributed to their potential to reduce the inflammation in the gut and bone marrow.

Supports weight-loss

Recent discoveries in science have revealed that, in fact, it is the gut microbiome that dictates the body composition and metabolic health of individuals. After this fact was known, researchers started to evaluate the benefits of probiotics in weight loss and metabolic disorders.

A 2022 meta-analysis compiled 11 randomized control trials performed to assess the impact of probiotic intake in women with polycystic syndrome (PCOS).

In these studies, participants were administered different probiotic strains or a combination of Bifidobacterium species, Lactobacillus species, and Streptococcus species for 8 to 12 weeks.

And the results showed that these probiotics have the potential to induce weight loss, reduce BMI, and improve insulin, lipid, and cholesterol profiles in women with PCOS.

Similarly, another short-term study (4 weeks) was performed to evaluate the weight loss benefit of the Bryndza cheese in middle-aged obese women who had a fat percentage ≥25%. Here, the results revealed that this natural probiotic modulates the gut microbiome and increases the abundance of lactic acid bacteria.

Ultimately, this bacteria dictated improvements in BMI, body fat, waist circumference, and muscle mass in the study participants.

Who Shouldn’t Take Probiotics Daily?

Although probiotics are generally considered safe for consumption by the majority population, people with certain conditions still need to avoid their intake.

So, here are some cases in which probiotics may have more risks than benefits:

If you’re taking certain medications

A review paper mentions that probiotics are contraindicated with immunosuppressants and chemotherapeutic agents.

The reason behind this is that these drugs may weaken the immune system due to which the oral intake of live bacteria may lead to pathogenic colonization and cause disease and infection.

If you have Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth (SIBO)

A 2018 study evaluated the effect of oral administration of probiotics on SIBO patients for one month. The results of the study showed that probiotics might increase the growth of methanogenic bacteria in SIBO patients.

Additionally, the probiotics may also cause D-lactic acidosis and gastrointestinal side effects in people with small bowel syndrome in case of overgrowth of Lactobacillus bacteria.

If you have a chronic underlying  illness

According to one review, immunosuppressed individuals, premature infants, pancreatitis patients, and people with an impaired intestinal epithelial barrier (e.g., due to diarrhea) or cardiac valvular disease may develop bacteremia or fungemia if they consume probiotics.

Correspondingly, multiple studies report that systemic infections may occur if the probiotic microbes pass into the blood circulation either due to a dysfunctional gut barrier or a weak immune system.

Moreover, apparently harmless bacteria like the Lactobacillus species may cause endocarditis in people with heart diseases.

A randomized control trial performed on 298 patients observed that routine administration of probiotics to patients with severe acute pancreatitis increased their mortality risk and worsened their condition. 

This conclusion was drawn because 9 deaths occurred in the probiotic group while no subject died in the placebo group.

People with good gut health

Contrary to popular belief, daily consumption of probiotics by completely healthy individuals may throw off their microbiome balance which may ultimately result in side effects and feelings of unwellness. 

3 Best Probiotics for Women

If you want to start taking probiotic supplements but don’t know which ones are the best, then you may try any of these five products.

1. Yourbiology Gut+ 

Benefits

The Yourbiology gut’s formula is based on a technology that ensures that maximum live probiotics reach your gut which makes it far more effective than its counterparts. 

In this product, instead of stuffing in controversial bacterial species, the user-trusted Wolfson Brands has added only four of the most well-researched strains from the Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium genus.

For instance, the Lactobacillus acidophilus helps to balance the vaginal microbiome and prevent yeast infection.

Similarly, clinical trials in women show that the Bifidobacterium lactis may promote weight loss and reduce waist circumference in them. 

Moving forward, the research on Lactobacillus plantarum shows its benefit in improving cardiometabolic health in post-menopausal women and its positive impact on gut health.

Next, the last probiotic Lactobacillius Paracasei colonizes the vagina, but research has also found it effective in treating skin concerns like acne and dermatitis.

Additionally, it also contains the pre-biotic Fructooligosaccharide, which feeds the good bacteria in your gut and intestines.

This probiotic is unique because it is based on the MAKtrek technology, which increases the probiotic survival rate by 250%.

Furthermore, It enhances the release and absorption of the probiotics in the gut while simultaneously preventing their degradation in the stomach acid.

Cost and shipping

• Its one-month supply contains 60 tables and can be purchased for $74.99. However, standard delivery charges may apply to every purchase.

Pros

• It gives 60-day money-back guarantee.
• It doesn’t have gluten or soy allergens.
• It improves gastrointestinal, skin, and brain function and causes weight loss as well.
• It contains 40 billion probiotics/ CFU per two capsules. 
• It doesn’t require refrigeration.
• It is free from preservatives.
• It is GMP certified.

Cons

• It is not available in physical stores.
• It has maltodextrin.
• The optimal dose is delivered in 2 capsules.

2. Physician’s Choice Women’s Probiotic

Benefits 

As the name suggests, the Physician’s choice women’s probiotic has a women-focused formula and has fetched only the ingredients backed by clinical evidence to support feminine health. 

It is based on six strains, out of which five are Lactobacillus species, and one is Bifidobacterium lactis which are resistant to bile and hence, won’t get deactivated upon consumption.

Moreover, D mannose and 50 mg cranberry extract work together to prevent the recurrence of Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs).

It also has organic pre-biotic fiber sourced from Organic Jerusalem Artichoke Root and Acacia Senegal, which helps the diverse microbiome flourish.

Cost and shipping

• You can get 30 capsules that are enough to last a month for $25.95. The brand also offers free standard shipping on the official website.

Pros

• It has a 60-day money-back guarantee.
• It has a vegan formula.
• It improves the immune system, digestive function, and urinary system.
• It has six diverse probiotic strains.
• Refrigeration is not necessary.
• It comes in delayed-release tablets.
• It comes in the form of a delayed-release capsule.
• It has prebiotics.
• It has 50 billion CFU of probiotics in one capsule.
• One capsule is enough to provide an optimal probiotic dose.
• It has cranberry extract.
• It is available online and in physical stores.
• It has a 60-day money-back guarantee.

Cons

• It may cause side effects.

3. Renew Life Women’s Care Probiotic

Benefits 

The Renew life probiotic has a simple formula that is free from filler and artificial ingredients.

All it has are 12 scientifically proven Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium species that boost women’s reproductive and overall health.

Another beneficial ingredient in it is the Medium Chain Triglycerides that promote heart health and induce weight loss.

Cost and shipping

• You may buy a one-month supply of 30 capsules for $37.49 and avail of free shipping on auto delivery.

Pros

• It has a vegetarian-friendly formula.
• It contains 12 probiotic strains.
• It provides vaginal, urinary, digestive, and immune support to women.
• It contains 90 billion probiotics CFU per capsule.
• It has a delayed-release formula that delivers live probiotics.
• It is free from dairy, gluten, and soy allergens.
• It does not contain genetically modified organisms.
• One capsule per day is enough.
• It offers a 60-day money-back guarantee.

Cons

• It should be refrigerated or stored below 25°C.
• It may cause side effects.

FAQs

Should I be taking probiotics daily?

Yes, you can take natural probiotics like yogurt daily. But you need to consult your doctor for daily intake of probiotic supplements.

How many probiotics should a woman take daily? 

Although there are no official recommendations in this regard still, women may take around 10 to 20 billion CFU/ dose of probiotics daily.

How long should a woman take a probiotic?

The natural probiotic intake in the form of kefir, yogurt, kimchi, etc., can continue throughout life. 

But again, for probiotic supplements, you need to take your doctor’s recommendation or follow the description of the product.

Why Should Women take probiotics daily?

Women should take probiotics daily because they help to maintain women’s reproductive health. Certain bacteria, such as those belonging to the Lactobacillus genus, may prevent recurrent vaginal and urinary tract infections and may even boost fertility.

Related: Can You Take Probiotics When Pregnant?

Conclusion

To conclude, it is safe to consume natural probiotics daily unless you have an underlying health condition or observe any side effects. Abundant research on women proves the benefit of daily probiotic intake in certain conditions for up to 24 weeks.

However, every woman’s needs and health conditions vary.

So, if you want to incorporate probiotic intake into your long-term routine, then it is better to take your doctor’s opinion on it for a personalized recommendation.