What are the best probiotics for women? The answer is: it depends on what type of support you’re looking for. In this article, we’re doing a deep dive into the best evidence-based probiotic strains and supplements for various aspects of women’s health, including: menstrual support, vaginal health, prenatal and postnatal, urinary tract health, heart health, mental and emotional health, skin health & more.
At In On Around, we believe the best supplements, including probiotics, should be tailored to the individual. This is why we’re excited to share the science behind which probiotic strains may have special benefits for women. Let’s get started!
Note: This article contains affiliate links, meaning In On Around will make a small commission at no additional cost to you. This helps us maintain the site. As always, we value full transparency & only work with brands we love and trust.
Author: In On Around Founder & CEO, Catherine Power.
- Published On:
- Updated On: August 9, 2024
Summary:
- There are many different probiotic strains available which can impact your urinary function, vaginal health, skin health, and more.
- Best Overall Brand = Seed Daily Probiotic (get 15% off with the code inonaround)
Table of Contents
Why Women Benefit From Specific Probiotic Strains
Probiotics are beneficial for all genders. However, certain strains, such as the ones discussed in this article, have shown clear benefits for various aspects of women’s health, such as urinary function, vaginal health, and skin health, for example.
This is important for women seeking specific support from their probiotic supplement.
Probiotics vs. Prebiotics: What’s The Difference?
If you’re confused about probiotics and prebiotics, here’s a quick explainer.
Probiotics are the good bacteria, such as Lactobacillus and Acidophilus, that colonize the gut and encourage the proliferation of beneficial intestinal flora. In fermented foods, they are the substances that make the food taste sour or like pickles.
Prebiotics are a type of carbohydrate, starch, and fiber that resist digestion and ferment in the intestinal tract, where they provide food for the good bacteria/probiotics.
Some examples of prebiotics commonly used in supplements include inulin, fructooligosaccharides (FOS), and chicory.
Prebiotics are also found in various fibrous foods, such as bananas, oats, soybeans, Jerusalem artichokes, leeks, garlic, and onions.
Does that mean every probiotic supplement should contain prebiotics to be effective? Not necessarily. Although many brands choose to combine the two, eating prebiotic foods daily will also feed healthy gut microbes.
Think of probiotics as the seeds and prebiotics as the fertilizer. Without sufficient prebiotics, probiotics cannot survive and provide optimal benefits.
The Best Probiotics For Women (and Why)
Women’s bodies, needs, and health challenges are unique and ever-changing.
Here we present several of the best probiotic strains for women to support menstruation, vaginal health, prenatal and postnatal, urinary tract health, heart health, mental and emotional health, and skin health.
We’ve also included strain-specific supplement recommendations with links to the In On Around store.
This is not an exhaustive list of all the probiotics (of which there are hundreds) that may benefit women, but a sampling of some of the more well-researched strains for common concerns.
Note: We did not include probiotics specifically for women’s digestive health, as any of the high-quality brands in our store will promote healthy digestion and microbiome function.
1: Probiotics For Menstrual Support
-
Seed Daily Probiotic (15% off inonaround)
A powerful multi-strain probiotic and prebiotic. -
Ora Probiotic & Prebiotic Powder (10% Off: inonaround10)
A probiotic & prebiotic powder that can help with bloating. -
Ora Probiotic & Prebiotic (10% Off: inonaround10)
With 16 billion CFU of dairy-free probiotics and prebiotics. -
Truvani Probiotic
With 15 probiotic strains for overall gut health.
Most of us think of probiotics for supporting digestion, elimination, immunity, and microbiome function. However, many women report positive changes in their menstrual cycles and PMS symptoms after taking probiotics and/or increasing the amount of probiotic-rich foods in their diets.
Emerging research suggests this isn’t just a pleasant or anecdotal side effect.
Studies have revealed a connection between the gut and estrogen known as the “estrobolome,” wherein the gut microbiota regulate estrogen metabolism and influence circulating levels. [1,2]
The estrobolome is also responsible for making usable estrogens from foods containing phytoestrogens (plant estrogens), such as leafy greens, flaxseeds, and soybeans.
Studies suggest taking various strains of Lactobacillus probiotic supplements, such as L. reuteri, L. gasseri, and others, either alone or in combination with diet and lifestyle modifications, may positively impact various facets of menstruation, including regularity, estrogen balance, menstrual pain, PMS symptoms, and more. [3, 4, 5]
Although more research is needed, these findings are exciting and validating for women who have sworn by probiotics to support their monthly cycle.
You can find various Lactobacillus strains, including L. reuteri, in:
2: Probiotics For Vaginal Health
Many women’s first introduction to probiotics is to support vaginal health, a practice that’s been popular in naturopathic circles for decades.
Now, research has confirmed nurturing a diverse vaginal microbiome is essential to maintaining women’s reproductive health and comfort.
As noted in a recent research paper published in the Journal Nutrients entitled: “The Role Of Probiotics In Vaginal Health”: “Lactobacillus adheres to the vaginal epithelium and can competitively antagonize the colonization of pathogens…There are many microbial colonization in the vagina of healthy women, among which Lactobacillus plays a major role (95%).” [6]
So, it appears Lactobacillus strains are ideal for nurturing the vaginal microbiome.
Lactobacillus acidophilus is the most studied probiotic for supporting vaginal health, followed by L. rhamnosus, L. plantarum, and L. reuteri. [7]
All these strains can be found in:
3: Probiotics For Prenatal and Postnatal Support
The maternal microbiome—a mother’s microbiome that influences her unborn baby—is a popular topic of discussion among progressive prenatal providers, researchers, and health-conscious parents-to-be.
Emerging research suggests the maternal microbiome plays a multifaceted role in pregnancy, birth, and postpartum, including influencing placental development and the unborn baby’s immunity, gut function, nervous system, and much more. [8, 9]
This is why many prenatal experts recommend specific probiotic supplements to expectant mothers.
Supplement companies have also gotten on the maternal microbiome train, offering prenatal and postnatal-specific supplements.
Several strains of probiotics, such as L. planetarium, L. acidophilus, Bifidobacterium bifidum, L. rhamnosus, and L, reuteri, have been shown potentially helpful in studies for promoting several aspects of a healthy pregnancy, including metabolic function, digestive function, immune function, and more. [10]
Two of our favorite probiotic supplements for pregnancy and postpartum are:
1 – Mary Ruth’s Probiotic Prenatal +
This formula combines essential vitamins and minerals for mother and baby, such as methylated folate, iron, and vitamin D, plus Red Raspberry Leaf and the following probiotic strains to support the maternal microbiome:
- Lactobacillus planetarium
- Lactobacillus acidophilus
- Bifidobacterium bifidum
2 – Mary Ruth’s Postnatal Probiotic +
This formula contains a supportive blend of key nutrients, like choline, iron, and selenium, soothing herbs, and the following probiotics to support the needs of postnatal and nursing mothers:
- Lactobacillus planetarium
- Lactobacillus acidophilus
- Bifidobacterium bifidum
Note: Since pregnancy is a delicate time, always check with your healthcare practitioner before taking any supplements during pregnancy.
4: Probiotics For Urinary Tract Health
Many integrative doctors and practitioners recommend probiotics to promote a healthy urinary system.
This is because various studies have shown probiotics, specifically, Lactobacilli strains, create a protective effect on the urinary system. [11]
Although more research is needed, studies suggest L. rhamnosus and L. reuteri may be especially beneficial, alone or combined with supportive nutrients or functional foods, such as cranberry and vitamin C.
You can find several strains of L. rhamnosus and L. reuteri in: Seed Daily Probiotic.
5: Probiotics For Heart Health
Heart disease is now the #1 killer of women, with cancer a close second or equal in some states. [12]
This means it is imperative for women to adopt a heart-healthy lifestyle to support cardiovascular well-being.
In addition to eating a whole foods diet, exercising, practicing stress management, getting regular screenings, and getting plenty of sleep, research suggests specific probiotics may offer heart-specific support.
Studies suggest these probiotics work via the heart-gut connection, whereby specific gut microbiota interact with the cardiovascular system.
Some examples of probiotic strains studied for their heart-health benefits include:
- Lactobacillus plantarum: Has been shown to promote normal cholesterol metabolism, metabolic function, and a normal inflammatory response. It may also increase the absorption of nutrients such as iron, which is essential to heart function. Iron is also often lacking in women of menstruating age. [13, 14, 15]
- Lactobacillus paracasei: Studies suggest this strain supports arterial function, normal cholesterol levels, normal blood pressure, and normal blood glucose levels via its effects on antioxidant activity. [16]
- Lactobacillus reuteri: Has been shown to support normal cholesterol levels, immune and inflammatory response, and to promote production and absorption of B12 and B9, which are essential nutrients for cardiovascular function. [17, 18]
- Bifidobacterium lactis: Research suggests this strain’s effects on antioxidant function may support various aspects of cardiovascular function, including normal inflammatory response, blood pressure, arterial function, and promoting normal lipid, glucose, and cholesterol levels. [19]
These strains and more are in one of my favorite probiotic products, Seed Daily Probiotic.
This specially engineered probiotic supplement contains a specific blend for heart function in a double-capsule delivery system, ensuring the probiotics reach your gut intact.
For those who prefer a liquid, Mary Ruth’s Liquid Probiotics also contains these strains and more to support a healthy heart, gut, and other aspects of women’s health.
You can read more about heart health tips here.
6: Probiotics For Mental/Emotional Health
-
Seed Daily Probiotic (15% off inonaround)
A powerful multi-strain probiotic and prebiotic. -
Ora Probiotic & Prebiotic Powder (10% Off: inonaround10)
A probiotic & prebiotic powder that can help with bloating. -
Ora Probiotic & Prebiotic (10% Off: inonaround10)
With 16 billion CFU of dairy-free probiotics and prebiotics. -
Mary Ruth’s Liquid Probiotics (15% off: mroinonaround)
For gut health, immune function, and digestive support.
If you’re reading this article, chances are you know about the gut-brain connection and how our digestive health can impact our mental and emotional well-being. [20]
This exciting discovery has led to research studies on which probiotic strains may impact mental and emotional health.
These findings may be particularly relevant to women, who tend to experience stress more intensely than men, may experience mood swings during their monthly cycle, and are more susceptible to certain mental health issues, such as depression and anxiety. [21]
Although probiotics should not be considered a cure-all, research suggests the following strains, known as psychobiotics, may support mental and emotional well-being and enhance feelings of calmness, happiness, cognitive function, sleep, and contentment: [22, 23]
- Lactobacillus fermentum
- L. rhamnosus
- L. plantarum
- Bifidobacterium bifidum
- Bifidobacterium longum
-
- B. longum combined with L. Helveticus has also been shown to reduce psychological stress
These are just a few examples of psychobiotics that may help support emotional well-being.
You can find several of these in:
7: Probiotics For For Skin Health
-
Seed Daily Probiotic (15% off inonaround)
A powerful multi-strain probiotic and prebiotic. -
Ora Probiotic & Prebiotic (10% Off: inonaround10)
With 16 billion CFU of dairy-free probiotics and prebiotics. -
Mary Ruth’s Liquid Probiotics (15% off: mroinonaround)
For gut health, immune function, and digestive support.
It’s no secret women generally spend more on beauty and skincare products than men, which is why we’ve included probiotics for skin health in this discussion. [24]
Emerging research has confirmed the presence of a dermal (skin) microbiome with its own blend of various beneficial bacteria, fungi, and other microorganisms that maintain balance, integrity, and health. [25]
Since the gut microbiome influences the dermal microbiome, scientists have begun studying which probiotics may benefit skin health.
Although the research in this field is in its infancy, researchers propose probiotics may be used to support various facets of skin function by reducing oxidative stress, supporting the inflammatory response, and nurturing the skin-gut axis.
This is why you may have seen probiotics in skincare products such as serums, cleansers, and skin-specific supplements.
Many probiotics are being studied for their impacts on the skin when taken orally or applied topically.
For example, preliminary studies suggest the following may provide benefits for photoaging, skin barrier function, tone, texture, clarity, hydration, and signs of aging: [26, 27]
- Ligilactobacillus salivarius
- Bifidobacterium lactis
- Bifidobacterium longum
- Lacticaseibacillus casei
Anecdotally, many people experience improvements in skin health, such as clarity, hydration, texture, and tone, after taking various probiotics.
This suggests probiotics in general, whether in foods or supplements, may provide benefits, but more research is needed.
Regarding the use of topical probiotics for skin health, some studies show a benefit, and some do not, so more research is needed.
However, many experts and individuals report good results from using specific probiotic skincare products alone or in combination with probiotic supplements.
You can find these strains, along with other skin-supportive probiotics, in:
Ingredients To Watch Out For in Probiotics for Women
High-quality probiotic supplement capsules and powders should have a simple list of ingredients, including the probiotic strains and prebiotic fiber plus ingredients to make the capsule, if applicable.
Gummies and liquids may have additional ingredients for flavor, viscosity, and texture. These ingredients aren’t necessarily bad, but it pays to be vigilant when reading labels.
The following is a list of ingredients to avoid in probiotics:
- Added sugar, like high fructose corn syrup
- Artificial sweeteners like saccharine, sucralose, and aspartame
- Artificial flavors
- Natural flavors, while these are generally better than artificial flavors, they are often highly processed and isolated ingredients
- Excipients such as silicon dioxide, magnesium stearate, and talc
- FD&C dyes and colors
- Gluten
- Learn more about gluten here: Gluten-Free Diet Pros And Cons For Non-Celiacs
- Genetically modified organisms (GMOs)
- Learn more about GMOs here: 13 Pros And Cons Of GMOs (Backed By Evidence)
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What About CFUs, Do They Matter?
Everyone has a different opinion on this for various reasons, including the quality of the strains, how much of the probiotic survives once it reaches the gut, and why the probiotic is being taken.
That said, most integrative health experts recommend looking for products with CFUs in the billions (like the products we have listed here).
However, there is no general scientific consensus on the optimal number of CFUs, and there probably won’t be any time soon. In the meantime, check with your healthcare practitioner for individual recommendations.
Do I Need To Take Probiotic Supplements If I Eat Cultured Foods?
This depends on various factors, including your current state of health, what types of cultured foods you’re eating and how often, and your health goals.
Many people find they benefit from a probiotic supplement in addition to eating cultured foods, but that’s a personal choice.
Others take probiotics because they want the benefits from a specific strain, and they know they’ll get it from a supplement versus a cultured food.
For individual recommendations, check with your healthcare practitioner.
And the Winner for Best Probiotics for Women Is…
Based on our research and current evidence, Seed Daily Probiotic is our pick for the best overall probiotic for women!
We originally chose Seed Daily Probiotic as part of our clean product offerings because of its diversity in probiotic strains, its purity (no fillers, excipients, or other artificial ingredients), and its unique double-capsule delivery system which ensures probiotic strains make it to your gut in-tact.
Its specific benefits for women are a bonus we know our health- and toxin-conscious readers will appreciate.
Shop Seed Daily Probiotic here and get 15% off with the code inonaround.
Final Thoughts: Where to Find The Best Probiotics For Women
At In On Around, we are passionate about helping conscious consumers find the very cleanest and most efficacious products for in, on and around their bodies, including supplements.
In seeking out the best probiotics for our customers, we looked for established and reputable brands whose formulas include well-researched probiotic strains in optimal doses within effective delivery systems, as confirmed by their certificates of analysis and end-product testing.
As with all our supplements, we only carry brands free from toxic or potentially harmful fillers, flavors, excipients, or other ingredients and manufactured under cGMP guidelines, the guidelines set forth by the FDA for the safe manufacturing of dietary supplements.
To recap, some of the best probiotic brands for women found in our shop include:
- Seed Daily Probiotic
- Ora Trust Your Gut Probiotic
- Mary Ruth’s Liquid Probiotics
- Mary Ruth’s Probiotic Prenatal +
- Mary Ruth’s Postnatal Probiotic +
- Truvani Probiotic Supplement
- Ora Trust Your Gut Daily Essential Probiotic and Prebiotic
- Ora Trust Your Gut Probiotic and Prebiotic Powder
We’re also proud to carry additional clean probiotic brands for specific support, such as digestive health, pets, and more, including:
- Amy Meyers Primal Earth Probiotic (soil-based)
- Just Thrive Just Pets
- Just Thrive Spore-Based Probiotic for Immune and Digestive Health
Other probiotics for women that feature these strains and meet our quality standards but are not in our store at this time include:
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Which probiotic brand do you use?
Let me know your thoughts and key takeaways in the comments below!
xoxo,
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Frequently Asked Questions – The Best Probiotics for Women
Shop our clean, sugar-free, artificial-sweetener-free, dye-free, excipient-free probiotics for women. Learn more about: Amazon dietitian nutritionist recommended products, weight loss, low-price daily probiotics, saccharomyces boulardii, and probiotics for IBS symptoms.
Not necessarily. Although many brands choose to combine the two, eating prebiotic foods daily will also feed healthy gut microbes.
