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We’ve taken clean supplements that support women’s health for years. Here are our favorite vaginal probiotics for addressing odor, discomfort, and pH balance.
As the voice for women’s healthcare becomes deservedly louder, vaginal health should be at the forefront of the conversation. Many women are faced daily with unpleasant and often life-disrupting symptoms that could be addressed. First, let’s get into a bit of vagina 101: Although the gut microbiome gets most of the attention, the vagina has one all of its own. It’s a kingdom of billions of microbes, and its state of well-being determines a women’s vaginal, gynecological, and urogenital health.
“Many women are faced daily with unpleasant and often life-disrupting symptoms that could be addressed.”
Just like the gut microbiome, the vaginal ecosystem fosters a delicate balance of these microbes. And also, like the gut, in order to remain healthy and resilient to problematic pathogens, the vaginal microbiome should be dominated by healthy, helpful bacteria and other microbes, which all happen to prefer a slightly acidic pH. Disruptions in vaginal health can be caused or compounded by stress, hormonal changes, and antibiotic use. An imbalance causes vaginal dysbiosis and negatively affects vaginal pH inviting more of the unfriendlies to take charge. Once those good bacteria are outnumbered, we are faced with numerous uncomfortable issues like malodor, irritation, bacterial vaginosis, yeast infections, and more. So, how do we ensure our lady parts stay happy, healthy, and balanced?
One way is with science-backed vaginal probiotics proven to be specifically beneficial to the vaginal microbiota. Although there are some crossover benefits of taking probiotics geared toward gut health, as mentioned, our vaginal ecosystem is unique in comparison and should be treated as such. Populating the vaginal barrier with beneficial probiotic strains helps prevent infection and combat symptoms. In addition, vaginal probiotics can help support fertility and pregnancy, and they may even help with symptoms that accompany perimenopause and menopause.
What should you look for in a good vaginal probiotic?
Probiotics that contain Lactobacillus strains (L. acidophilus, L. rhamnosus, L. reuteri, L. crispatus, L. gasseri, and Bifidobacterium lactis, etc.) are proven to be most effective at fortifying the vaginal microbiome. These strains work their magic by adhering to the vaginal lining and preventing pathogenic colonization. They also produce lactic acid and hydrogen peroxide to help maintain an optimal, slightly acidic pH. Most vaginal probiotics come in capsule form and should be taken regularly over time to allow for a true colonization effect. However, one option we include in our guide delivers a dose of beneficial bacteria straight to the source. When choosing a vaginal probiotic capsule, look for brands that are shelf stable or proven to survive the harsh digestive system so they can deliver that dose of beneficial bugs where they need to be. Worth noting: Some vaginal probiotics also contain ingredients to aid in the health of the urinary tract or are considered synbiotics — meaning they provide prebiotics to help feed the probiotics. We are all for anything that provides more comprehensive support to women’s health and wellness.
Our criteria:
Our team personally relies on clean supplements for our health, plus we’ve researched and corresponded with the best clean supplement brands on the market. Here are our top picks for vaginal probiotics for staying clean and comfy down there. We update this list regularly with emerging favorites that meet our criteria.
- CLEAN INGREDIENTS | The brands on this list use natural and organic ingredients without any unnecessary fillers — and we’ve noted which have been third-party tested.
- SCIENCE-BACKED | These probiotic formulations are driven by the latest research, and backed by medical and scientific experts for maximum effectiveness with fewer side effects. We’ve noted CFU and/or AFU count for each option.
- SUSTAINABLE | We’ve prioritized brands that use ethical and sustainable business practices from thoughtful sourcing to labor practices to packaging.
This guide may be laser-focused on vagina-specific probiotics, but proper health and wellness are achieved when we treat our bodies holistically. Check out our guide to the best probiotics for gut health to ensure your healthy whole-body microbiota.
1. Seed
Best For | Rapid results
Functional Ingredients | 3 studied strains of L. crispatus
Prices Starting At | $99 for the 2-month starter kit, then $40/month after
Seed’s VS-01 is the first vaginal probiotic suppository clinically validated for effectiveness. VS-01 was the result of Dr. Jaques Ravel’s long-time research, which discovered that three specific strains of L. crispatus provide some of the most potent defenses again the bad guys within the vaginal microbiota. Every woman who participated in the VS-01 trial saw a regulated vaginal pH. VS-01 uses a two-phase process that safely interacts with epithelial cells in the vagina — first to colonize it with L. crispatus, then to maintain it for ongoing resiliency. The slow-release delivery technology of the VS-01 vaginal suppository is designed to maximize exposure to the vaginal wall and was tested for biocompatibility with the vaginal environment. Note that VS-01 should not be started or used during menstruation!
2. Perelel
Best For | Comprehensive probiotic strains
Functional Ingredients | L. reuteri, L. casei, L. acidophilus, L. salivarius, L. paracasei, L. rhamonous, L. plantarum, B. lactis, B. bifidum, B. longum, L. bulgaricus, B. breve
CFU count | 10 billion
Prices Starting At | $29
Once again, Perelel Health keeps the mommas in mind with their great-for-every-stage Daily Probiotic. The Daily Probiotic contains a whopping 10 billion CFUs and is designed to be taken before, during, and after pregnancy for vaginal support during all the hormonal ups and downs in female life. Perel’s doctor team formulated this probiotic, which contains a comprehensive blend of targeted probiotics to benefit not just vaginal health but also overall health, with strains shown to have positive effects on the digestive microbiome, too. Several reviews claim the Daily Probiotic kept pregnancy-related constipation at bay.
Customer Review | “These have made a world of difference for me! Used to get infections almost monthly, and it has totally cleared up. I notice such a difference on my vaginal health when I am taking these!!” – Larissa (Read more reviews)
3. HUM
Best For | Tandem urinary tract health
Functional Ingredients | L. acidophilus, L. rhamnosus, L. reuteri, Cranberry PACs
CFU count | 10 billion
Prices Starting At | $26
HUM describes their female-centric probiotic Private Party as a “perfectly balanced cocktail for your lady parts.” Formulated by registered dietitians and nutritionists, Private Party contains three strains of probiotics directed at supporting a healthy vaginal microbiome as well as proanthocyanidins or (PACs) — the active compound in cranberries that helps support urinary tract health. All HUM products are clinically tested for effectiveness. Private Party may also be available at your local Target store.
4. Bonafide
Best For | Odor relief
Functional Ingredients | L. acidophilus, L. rhamnosus, lactoferrin, folate
CFU count | 5 billion
Prices Starting At | $55 for 15 days
Clairvee’s unique and powerful formula allows users to take it only once a day for 15 consecutive days per month and still get month-long relief from odor, itching, and discomfort. The Clairvee Capsule uses time-release technology and protects the probiotics, allowing them to power through the harsh digestive system and deliver results where they are needed. Although relief from symptoms will most likely be apparent quickly, Bonafide suggests taking this for at least 6 months for best-case benefits.
Customer Review | “This truly is a wonderful product. It’s easy to take and I did notice a significant difference by the second month. I did this for six months and I really love the difference that I had felt within myself.” – Cinzia (Read more reviews)
5. Daye
Best For | Zero waste vaginal care
Functional Ingredients | Plant-derived Lactobacillus plantarum
CFU count | 5 billion
Prices Starting At | $40
Although many probiotic supplements contain dairy due to being grown in milk cultures, Daye’s ProBiotics probiotic contains L. plantarum, which is uniquely extracted from fermented vegetables and then grown in organic carrot juice. ProViotics are entirely free from additives and lab tests have back Daye’s claim that ProViotics can survive in the acidic environments of both the gut and the vagina. This brand is uber Earth-conscious, not just with its product but also with its packaging. The first order comes in an aluminum jar filled with freeze-dried probiotics. Additional monthly orders come in a compostable pouch.
Customer Review | “First of all, love that this a woman led company working with real woman issues. I have used the tampons for several years, and the probiotics and love both products” – Nathalie (Read more reviews)
6. Love Wellness
Best For | Balanced pH
Functional Ingredients | Bacillus subtilis, L acidophilus, L. gasseri, L. salivarius, L. brevis, L. rhamnosus, L. casei, L. plantarum, L. paracasei
CFU count | 1 billion
Prices Starting At | $30
Love Wellness’s Good Girl probiotic capsule was created by a team of doctors in 2016 with the goal of supporting balanced vaginal pH. Yes, it’s a catchy name, but this one also must be effective because it has more than eight thousand reviews and a 5-star rating backing that it works! Good Girl dosage is one capsule a day chock full of beneficial vaginal probiotics. This probiotic is shelf stable, and 97% of women who tested it say they felt “balanced” in short order.
Customer Review | “Been using about 3 weeks, and I already noticed a reduction in vaginal odor and I just feel healthier down there!” – Melinda S. (Read more reviews)
7. Uro
Best For | Natural Synbiotic
Functional Ingredients | L. acidophilus, L. rhamnosus, L. reuteri, L.fermentum, Xylooligosaccharides
CFU count | 5 billion
Prices Starting At | $32
Uro’s Vaginal Probiotic aims to supercharge your vagina with a synbiotic formula designed to combat vaginal odor, balance pH and yeast cultures, and optimize your vaginal flora. This vaginal probiotic contains only targeted strains of probiotics but also contains prebiotics that help keep strains active so they can work their magic. Of note, these are cute pink pills that contain a slight bit of natural color, but hey, who doesn’t want to take a fun pink pill loaded with beneficial bacteria?
Customer Review | “It works great. I have no odor and smell pleasant. It does exactly what it is meant to do.” – Vanessa (Read more reviews)
8. Happy V
Best For | Healthier hair, skin, and nails too
Functional Ingredients | Biotin, L. acidodopjilus, Bifidobacterium lactis, L. rhamnosus, L. crispatus, L. gasseri, L. reuteri, Bacillus subtilis, PreforPro
Prices Starting At | $45
Happy V’s delayed-release and shelf-stable Prebiotic + Probiotic contains all the targeted vaginal probiotic strains but also contains a prebiotic called PreforPro. Preferpro is a bacteriophage that works to destroy harmful bacteria and make way for the good bacteria to dominate. Happy V aims to eliminate odor, itch, gut bloating, and other symptoms. Also, Happy V contains a dose of biotin, which not only supports the health of the vaginal mucosa but offers added benefits of healthier hair, skin, and nails.
Customer Review | “Taking this for a few months, completely cleared up recurring infections and also stopped bloating.” – Lauren A (Read more reviews)
9. Uqora
Best For | Probiotic repopulation
Functional Ingredients | L. acidophilus, L. rhamnosus, lactoferrin
CFU count | 5 billion
Prices Starting At | $30
Although it can be taken alone, Promote is actually designed as one part of Uquora’s 3-part proactive urinary tract wellness plan. Uqora is clear that Promote is a vaginal probiotic, not a digestive probiotic. Hence, it contains just two clinically studied strains that help maintain healthy vaginal bacteria and yeast levels and can be taken alongside other probiotics. Promote is designed to be taken for 15 days of the month for all-month relief. You can bundle Promote with the Uqora system, which is ideal for anyone sexually active, perimenopausal, and/or postmenopausal. Promote also contains lactoferrin (dairy-derived) which collaborates with lactic acid bacteria in promoting a healthy vaginal microbiome. Uquora offers a student discount program and provides a 60-day money-back guarantee.
Customer Review | “I am beyond grateful for this incredible product line because it enables me to stay ahead. The peace of mind is priceless, Uqora has given me a new lease on life and loev. Thank you, Thank you, Thank you!” – Elisa (Read more reviews)
Randi Donahue is a freelance writer who lives on the Gulf Coast of Florida and is fortunate to live right next to a glorious nature preserve and a few miles from a white sandy beach. She and her family are passionate about nature, health & wellness, and sustainable living and believe the path to a healthy and prosperous life requires authenticity, kindness and a whole lot of fresh air.
