Written by Andrew Lenau | ISSA CPT & Sports Nutritionist
Fact checked by Robert Iafelice, MS, RD, LDN
FACT CHECKED
We adhere to a strict methodology when reviewing products. We strive to deliver you an unbiased opinion on products and services so that you're able to make an informed decision. Learn More
We may earn a commission on purchases made through links on this page at no cost to you. Learn More
The human body is home to various types of bacteria, both beneficial and harmful. The beneficial bacteria in the body play a crucial role in maintaining good health, especially for the digestive and immune systems, gastrointestinal health, vaginal health, skin health, and fertility.
Probiotic supplements can help increase the population of healthy bacteria in the body, thus enhancing its ability to fight harmful bacteria. However, choosing the right one can be daunting with so many probiotic supplements on the market.
Based on our evaluation, we have compiled a list of the best probiotics for women's health to assist you in making an informed decision. By incorporating these supplements into your daily routine, you can support and enhance the beneficial bacteria in your body, leading to the aforementioned health benefits.
These probiotics can significantly enhance your overall well-being, from improving digestion and immune function to promoting vaginal and skin health.
7 Best Probiotics For Women
- Overall Best: Garden of Life Dr. Formulated Probiotics
- For Gut Health: Ritual Synbiotic+
- For Immune Health: Klean Probiotic
- For Vaginal Health: Life Extension FLORASSIST
- For Women Over 50: Elm&Rye Daily Probiotic
- For Weight Loss: Metagenics Ultra Flora Control
- Prebiotic and Probiotic Combo: 1MD Nutrition BiomeMD
SFS Pick
Garden of Life
SFS Gut Health Pick
Ritual
SFS Immunity Pick
Klean
1. Overall Best Probiotic For Women: Garden of Life Dr. Formulated Probiotics
Garden of Life Dr. Formulated Probiotics For Women is designed to meet women's specific health needs. As a daily probiotic supplement, it contains prebiotics and probiotics for women, with 16 diverse Lacto and Bifido strains that work together to improve digestive health.
It includes an acidophilus probiotic strain essential for optimal gut health. One of the standout features of this product is its focus on women's health, with strains clinically studied for vaginal health.
The L. reuteri and L. fermentum strains promote vaginal health, which is crucial for women's overall well-being. The inclusion of organic prebiotic fiber helps feed good bacteria in the gut, further improving digestive health.
The supplement is shelf-stable, and the easy-to-swallow vegetarian capsule makes it convenient to take daily. In addition to being an effective probiotic supplement, Garden of Life Dr. Formulated Probiotics for Women is third-party certified as Non-GMO, NSF Gluten-Free, and Carbon Neutral.
It is also suitable for vegetarians and is free from dairy and soy. If you prefer not to swallow capsules, you can open them and mix the probiotic powder into your favorite juice or water.
Pros
- Shelf-stable
- Suitable for vegetarians
- Certified gluten-free
- Third-party tested
Cons
- Prebiotics may not be necessary for everyone
Dr. Formulated Once Daily Women’s Probiotic has prebiotics and probiotics for women, with 16 diverse Lacto and Bifido strains for digestive health—including an acidophilus...
2. Best Probiotic For Women's Gut Health: Ritual Synbiotic+
Ritual Synbiotic+ is an innovative digestive support supplement that offers a 3-in-1 solution for optimal gut health. This supplement contains prebiotics, probiotics, and postbiotics in one capsule for an easy and convenient approach to digestive wellness.
Synbiotic+ offers 11 billion CFUs to support healthy digestion and two of the world's most clinically studied probiotic strains for optimal results. One of the most significant benefits of Synbiotic+ is its delayed-release capsule design, which helps the probiotics reach the colon instead of the stomach.
This is the ideal location for probiotics to survive and grow, ensuring maximum benefit. You only need one minty capsule daily, making it a straightforward, streamlined solution for your gut health.
Synbiotic+ is also moisture-controlled, which means it doesn't require refrigeration. The bottle's technology protects the probiotic strains from moisture, ensuring their viability and potency.
This supplement is made traceable, with a visible supply chain that tells you precisely what you're putting into your body, where it's sourced from, and why. With its unique blend of prebiotics, probiotics, and postbiotics, along with its advanced delivery system, Synbiotic+ can help reshape your relationship with your gut and promote a healthier digestive system.
Pros
- Made traceable
- Vegan-friendly
- Non-GMO
- Third-party tested
Cons
- Expensive
Ritual Synbiotic+ combines pre, pro, and postbiotics all in one convenient capsule. Made with patented beadlet-in-oil technology, this gut-friendly supplement is absorbed in the...
3. Best Probiotic For Women's Immune Health: Klean Probiotic
Klean Probiotic is an excellent choice for those who want to support their digestive health with a high-quality supplement. This product is formulated with eight strains of probiotics and prebiotics that work in unison to promote a balanced gut microbiome.
The addition of specific strains, such as Bifidobacterium longum and Lactobacillus rhamnosus, make this supplement particularly effective at improving immune function and reducing inflammation. In addition to its impressive health benefits, Klean Probiotic is gluten-free, vegetarian, and non-GMO.
It contains no wheat, artificial coloring, flavorings, or sweeteners, making it a safe choice for various dietary needs. What's more, Klean Probiotic is NSF Certified for Sport, which means it has been rigorously tested to ensure it's free of substances banned for competitive athletes.
This certification provides peace of mind that you're getting a safe and reliable product. Adults should take one capsule one to two times daily or as directed by a trainer, coach, or health professional for best results.
Pros
- Free of substances banned in competitive sports
- Vegetarian-friendly
- Prebiotics and probiotics included
- Great for immune health
Cons
- On the expensive side
By balancing bacteria in the gut and allowing the necessary nutrients to be properly absorbed, Klean Probiotic plays a key role in supporting the overall health of the digestive system...
4. Best Probiotic For Women's Vaginal Health: Life Extension FLORASSIST
Life Extension FLORASSIST Probiotic Women's Health is a great probiotic supplement specifically formulated for women. With a focus on vaginal health, this supplement promotes healthy vaginal flora, pH levels, and vaginal tissue health.
It is made with ROSELL® A, which has been shown to support a balanced vaginal microbiome, and LAFTI® L10, which encourages digestive health and a healthy immune response. This supplement is gluten-free, non-GMO, and vegetarian-friendly, making it an excellent option for anyone with dietary restrictions.
It also includes a full one-year money-back guarantee so that you can feel confident in your purchase.
One of the great things about FLORASSIST® Probiotic Women's Health is that it is manufactured in the US and has a certificate of analysis available for public viewing, so you can trust that you are getting a high-quality product.
To use this supplement, take one capsule daily or as a healthcare practitioner recommends.
Pros
- It helps maintain vaginal health
- It has a satisfaction guarantee
- Great reviews
- The supplement has a certificate of analysis available
Cons
- It would be nice to see more probiotics included
Finally—a probiotic supplement made just for women. FLORASSIST® Probiotic Women’s Health is made with ROSELL® A, which is shown to support a balanced vaginal microbiome...
5. Best Probiotic For Women Over 50: Elm&Rye Daily Probiotic
Elm&Rye is a fantastic supplement brand gaining popularity and solid customer reviews. The company strongly emphasizes using sustainably sourced and pure ingredients while considering the environmental and social impact of their product packaging and ingredient sourcing.
Elm & Rye's Probiotic supplement has been third-party tested for potency and purity, and customers can review the results on the company's website. This product contains 2 billion CFU of the probiotic strain Lactobacillus acidophilus, which is of high quality and sustainable, even though it only contains a single probiotic strain.
It offers the flexibility to choose between capsules and gummies, making it an excellent option for individuals who prefer not to swallow capsules. In case of dissatisfaction, the company offers a full refund within 30 days.
Pros
- Offers gummies and capsules
- Third-party tested results are available on the website
- Premium, sustainably sourced ingredients
- Good reviews
Cons
- CFU count could be higher
Your gut is lined with trillions of bacteria that play an important role in your health. Generally, lactobacilli are very good for gut health. They produce...
6. Best Probiotic For Women's Weight Loss: Metagenics Ultra Flora Control
Metagenics Ultra Flora Control is a probiotic supplement that supports healthy weight regulation and gut health. It contains 10 billion CFU of Bifidobacterium lactis B-420, clinically shown to help regulate body weight and fat.
The product is manufactured under strict quality control guidelines to ensure the probiotic strains' purity, potency, and identity.
All Metagenics probiotics are extensively tested for harmful contaminants and stored in controlled conditions to protect the organisms from heat and moisture.
The CFU count is guaranteed through the expiration date to ensure the product's potency. This non-GMO, gluten-free, and vegetarian-friendly supplement also has a 60-day satisfaction guarantee.
Pros
- Supports healthy body weight regulation
- It comes with a satisfaction guarantee
- Intense quality testing
Cons
- It needs to be refrigerated
UltraFlora Control is designed to help support body weight regulation by delivering targeted probiotic support as Bifidobacterium lactis B-420, which...
7. Best Prebiotic and Probiotic For Women: 1MD Nutrition BiomeMD
1MD Nutrition BiomeMD Probiotics For Women is a high-quality, targeted supplement that supports overall feminine health. With a doctor-formulated blend of 16 robust bacterial strains, including two clinically-studied probiotics and a prebiotic blend, this supplement delivers a potent dose of 62 billion CFUs to nourish the body's microbiome for digestive and immune system support.
This product is shellfish-free, non-GMO, peanut-free, wheat-free, and dairy-free, making it suitable for various dietary needs. 1MD BiomeMD Probiotics is created by a board-certified physician, ensuring that it's formulated for maximum potency and effectiveness.
The 16 bacterial strains support balanced vaginal and digestive ecosystems, promoting optimal feminine health. With regular use of BiomeMD for Women, you can experience improved digestive health, a more robust immune system, and balanced vaginal flora.
If you're looking for a high-quality, doctor-formulated probiotic supplement to support your feminine health, BiomeMD for Women is an excellent choice.
Pros
- Doctor formulated
- A great blend of prebiotics and probiotics
- It has 62 billion CFUs
Cons
- Expensive
While promoting the balance of good bacteria in your gut microbiome, BiomeMD for Women also contains specific strains meant to reach and rejuvenate the...
What are Probiotics For Women?
Probiotics are live microorganisms that can benefit the body when consumed in adequate amounts. Probiotics for women are designed to support women's unique health needs, particularly those related to the gut, reproductive, and immune systems.
These supplements can contain different strains of beneficial bacteria, such as Lactobacillus, Bifidobacterium, and Saccharomyces, which can help restore the balance of good bacteria in the gut and other parts of the body.
This balance can help promote digestive health, reduce the risk of vaginal infections, boost the immune system, and support overall well-being.
Probiotics for women can come in many forms, including capsules, powders, and some food products. Different probiotic strains can offer additional benefits, and the specific benefits can vary depending on the individual and their health needs.
Benefits of probiotics for women:
Probiotics offer numerous health benefits for women, thanks to their ability to increase the number of beneficial bacteria in the body. Some of the benefits of probiotics for women include:
1. Helps with digestive health
When the balance of bacteria in the gut is disrupted, it can lead to various digestive problems, including bloating, gas, constipation, diarrhea, and other discomforts. Probiotics can help restore the balance of good and bad bacteria in the gut, improving digestive function and alleviating these symptoms.
Probiotics introduce beneficial bacteria to the gut, which can help crowd out harmful bacteria and restore balance. The beneficial bacteria in probiotics can also produce substances that aid digestion and nutrient absorption.¹
Research has shown that probiotics can effectively treat various digestive disorders, including irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), and other conditions. In one study, for example, patients with IBS who took a probiotic supplement experienced a significant reduction in symptoms compared to those who took a placebo.
2. Fights bad bacteria
Probiotics introduce beneficial bacteria into the body, which can help crowd out harmful bacteria and restore balance. The beneficial bacteria in probiotics produce substances that inhibit the growth of harmful bacteria and can even kill them.²
This can help to prevent infections and other health issues caused by harmful bacteria. In addition to fighting bad bacteria, probiotics can help improve overall immune function, making the body more resistant to infection.
By supporting the immune system, probiotics can help the body fight off harmful bacteria and other pathogens more effectively.
3. Helps maintain vaginal health
Probiotics have been found to play a critical role in promoting better vaginal health in women. The vagina is home to a complex ecosystem of bacteria, and an imbalance in the vaginal microbiome can lead to conditions such as bacterial vaginosis and yeast infections.
Probiotics help restore the balance of good and bad bacteria in the vagina, reducing the risk of these conditions. The beneficial bacteria in probiotics, such as Lactobacillus, help to maintain the acidic pH of the vagina, which is essential in preventing the growth of harmful bacteria and maintaining a healthy vaginal environment.
Studies have also shown that certain probiotic strains can help reduce the incidence and recurrence of urinary tract infections (UTIs), which can be a common problem for many women. For example, the strain Lactobacillus crispatus is effective in preventing UTIs by inhibiting the growth of harmful bacteria in the urinary tract.³
In addition to preventing infections, probiotics can help reduce vaginal discomfort and odor. For example, the probiotic strain Lactobacillus plantarum has been found to reduce the severity of bacterial vaginosis symptoms, including itching, burning, and odor.
4. Helps to prevent yeast infections
Probiotics can help to prevent yeast infections in women. Yeast infections, also known as Candida overgrowth, occur when the balance of good and bad bacteria in the vagina is disrupted, allowing yeast to overgrow.
Probiotics restore the balance of good bacteria in the vaginal microbiome, which can help prevent yeast overgrowth. The beneficial bacteria in probiotics, such as Lactobacillus, produce lactic acid, which helps to maintain a slightly acidic pH in the vagina. This acidic environment is unfavorable to yeast growth and other harmful microorganisms.⁴
5. Supports immune health
Probiotics have been shown to play a critical role in enhancing immune function in women. The human body is home to trillions of good and bad bacteria, and the immune system plays a crucial role in identifying and eliminating harmful bacteria.
When the balance between good and harmful bacteria is disrupted, it can lead to an overgrowth of harmful bacteria, weakening the immune system and increasing the risk of infections. Probiotics help to restore the balance between good and bad bacteria in the gut, supporting the immune system and helping to fight off harmful bacteria and viruses.
The beneficial bacteria in probiotics can stimulate the production of antibodies, which help the immune system recognize and eliminate harmful bacteria and viruses. Additionally, some strains of probiotics, such as Lactobacillus acidophilus and Bifidobacterium lactis, have been found to help reduce the severity and duration of respiratory infections like the common cold.⁵
Side effects of probiotic supplements
While probiotics are generally safe for most people, some may experience side effects when taking probiotic supplements. Common side effects of probiotics include:
- Digestive symptoms: Some people may experience bloating, gas, and other digestive symptoms when they first start taking probiotics. These symptoms typically resolve within a few days as the body adjusts to the supplement.
- Allergic reactions: In rare cases, probiotics can cause an allergic reaction. Symptoms of an allergic reaction may include hives, itching, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat, and difficulty breathing.
- Infection: People with weakened immune systems, such as those undergoing chemotherapy or with HIV, may be at a higher risk of developing infections from probiotics. In rare cases, probiotics can cause conditions such as sepsis.
- Other side effects: Probiotics can interact with other medications and cause different side effects, such as headaches, fatigue, and skin rashes.
It's important to note that probiotics are not a replacement for medical treatment and should not be used to treat severe health conditions without consulting a healthcare provider.
What to look for when buying probiotics for women:
When buying probiotics for women, several factors must be considered to ensure that you select a supplement that meets your specific health needs. Here are some things to look for when buying probiotics for women:
1. Ingredients
The ingredients in a probiotic supplement are important to consider when selecting a product. While the active ingredients in probiotics are the beneficial bacteria strains, other components may be present in the product that could impact its effectiveness or cause adverse reactions.
For example, some probiotics contain prebiotic fibers that can help feed the probiotics and promote their growth. However, these fibers can also cause digestive discomfort for some people, so it's important to be mindful of the type and amount of prebiotics in a supplement.
Additionally, some probiotics contain allergens, artificial preservatives, or other additives that could cause adverse reactions or undermine the product's effectiveness. It's essential to read the ingredient list and be mindful of any potential allergens or other ingredients that may not suit your health needs.
Overall, choosing a probiotic supplement free from unnecessary additives or allergens and containing high-quality strains of beneficial bacteria that target your specific health concerns is essential.
2. Dosages
The dosages of probiotics are an essential factor to consider when choosing a supplement. The appropriate dosage will depend on the probiotics' specific strains and the product's intended health benefits.
Higher dosages of probiotics may not necessarily be better and could cause adverse effects. The recommended dosage for a probiotic supplement should be based on the number of colony-forming units (CFUs) per dose, which refers to the number of viable bacteria in the supplement.
The CFUs needed for a particular health benefit will depend on the individual's health status, the specific strain of bacteria used, and the product's potency. In addition to the recommended dosage, it's important to follow the product's usage instructions carefully.
Some probiotics may need taken on an empty stomach, while others may be to be taken with food. It's also important to store the product properly to ensure the viability of the bacteria.
3. Testing/transparency
Testing and transparency are important factors to consider when choosing a probiotic supplement. A probiotic supplement's quality, purity, and potency can significantly impact its effectiveness and safety.
Reputable manufacturers of probiotic supplements typically conduct third-party testing to verify the potency and purity of their products. These tests can help ensure that the product contains the advertised strains of bacteria in the correct amounts and is free from harmful contaminants.
Transparency in labeling is also important to consider when selecting a probiotic supplement. The label should clearly state the strains of bacteria present, the CFUs per dose, and any other active or inactive ingredients. The label should also include instructions for use, storage, and any precautions or warnings.
Some manufacturers may also provide additional information about their testing procedures, quality control standards, and sourcing of raw materials. This can help consumers make an informed decision about the product and have confidence in its quality and effectiveness.
4. Price
While it can be tempting to opt for a lower-priced product, it's important to keep in mind that the quality and effectiveness of the supplement may be compromised. In general, high-quality probiotic supplements may be more expensive because they use specific strains of bacteria that have been clinically tested and validated for their health benefits.
These products may also have higher CFUs per dose and contain other beneficial ingredients, such as prebiotic fibers, that can enhance their effectiveness. On the other hand, lower-priced probiotic supplements may use generic strains of bacteria that have not been tested or validated for their health benefits, and they may have lower CFUs per dose.
These products may also contain fillers, binders, or other inactive ingredients that do not contribute to their effectiveness. It's essential to strike a balance between price and quality when choosing a probiotic supplement.
It's often worth investing in a high-quality, clinically validated product with a proven track record of effectiveness. However, this doesn't mean that the most expensive product is always the best.
Ultimately, the key is to look for a high-quality probiotic supplement that meets your individual health needs, has a reasonable price point, and has undergone rigorous testing and proper quality control measures to ensure its safety and effectiveness.
5. Reviews
Reviews can be an important tool when considering a probiotic supplement, as they can provide valuable insights into a product's effectiveness, side effects, and overall quality. By reading reviews, you can understand how other people have responded to a particular supplement and what benefits or drawbacks they have experienced.
Reviews can also help you evaluate the customer service and support provided by the manufacturer and the accuracy of the product description and labeling. This information can be especially important when considering a new or unfamiliar brand of probiotics.
However, it's important that reviews be considered with other factors, such as the quality and potency of the ingredients, the dosage, and the testing and transparency of the manufacturer. Some reviews may be biased or misleading, and it's important to look for patterns and trends across multiple sources of reviews to get an accurate picture of a product's effectiveness.
Probiotics For Women FAQs
What does a probiotic do for a woman?
Probiotics are known to provide potential benefits to women's health by promoting a healthy balance of bacteria in the gut, leading to improved digestive health, reduced risk of vaginal infections, support for the immune system, prevention of pregnancy-related complications, and support for mental health. Nevertheless, it is essential to remember that probiotics' effectiveness may vary depending on the individual and the specific strains used.
It's crucial to research and carefully choose a probiotic appropriate for your needs to maximize its benefits.
What are the signs you need probiotics?
Determining whether you need a probiotic supplement can be difficult, as many factors can affect the gut and overall health. However, here are some signs that may indicate that you may benefit from taking a probiotic:
- Digestive issues: If you experience digestive problems such as bloating, gas, constipation, or diarrhea, a probiotic may help restore a healthy balance of bacteria in your gut.
- Antibiotic use: Antibiotics can kill off harmful and beneficial bacteria in your gut, leading to an imbalance. Taking a probiotic during and after a course of antibiotics may help restore the balance.
- Immune system issues: Taking a probiotic may help support a healthy immune response if you have a weakened immune system.
- Skin problems: Some studies have suggested that a probiotic may help improve certain skin conditions such as acne and eczema.
- Travel: If you're traveling to an area with a different diet and bacteria, taking a probiotic may help prevent digestive issues.
It's important to note that these signs alone may not necessarily indicate a need for a probiotic.
Should women take probiotics daily?
Whether or not women should take a probiotic daily depends on several factors, including their overall health, lifestyle, and specific health concerns. Probiotics have the potential to be helpful for women by supporting gut health, promoting a healthy immune system, and reducing the likelihood of certain infections.
However, the effectiveness of probiotics can vary depending on the individual and the specific strains used. Therefore, we recommend consulting with a healthcare provider to determine if probiotics are a good fit for you and determine the best strains and dosages to suit your needs.
What's the downside of taking probiotics?
Although generally safe, there are some potential drawbacks to taking probiotics. Some common downsides may include gastrointestinal problems like bloating and diarrhea, increased risk of infection for those with weakened immune systems, interference with certain medications, and the possibility of allergic reactions.
As with any health supplement, the benefits and risks of probiotics can vary depending on the individual, so it's essential to consult a healthcare provider before taking them.
Summary
Probiotics may be worth considering if you are looking for a way to increase your overall well-being. Probiotics can benefit women in various ways, such as improved digestion, reduced stomach pains, relief from IBS symptoms, clearer skin, and fewer vaginal and urethral infections.
They can also bolster your immune system and help you fight off frequent illnesses. With many potential benefits, the best probiotics for women can enhance how your entire body functions, both inside and out.
If you are still struggling to figure out where to begin, you can explore the options listed above to find a probiotic supplement that works best for you.
Dr. Formulated Once Daily Women’s Probiotic has prebiotics and probiotics for women, with 16 diverse Lacto and Bifido strains for digestive health—including an acidophilus...
Interested in other supplements that can help with digestion? Check out our articles on the Best Digestive Enzymes and Best Probiotics For Men.
References
- NCCIH. "Probiotics: What You Need to Know." NCCIH, Aug. 2019
- Cleveland Clinic. "Probiotics: What Is It, Benefits, Side Effects, Food & Types." Cleveland Clinic, 9 Mar. 2020
- Akgul, Turgay, and Tolga Karakan. "The Role of Probiotics in Women with Recurrent Urinary Tract Infections." Türk Üroloji Dergisi/Turkish Journal of Urology, vol. 44, no. 5, 7 Sept. 2018, pp. 377–383
- Superti, Fabiana, and Francesco De Seta. "Warding off Recurrent Yeast and Bacterial Vaginal Infections: Lactoferrin and Lactobacilli." Microorganisms, vol. 8, no. 1, 17 Jan. 2020, p. 130
- Yan, Fang, and D.B. Polk. "Probiotics and Immune Health." Current Opinion in Gastroenterology, vol. 27, no. 6, Nov. 2011, pp. 496–501
Andrew Lenau
Author