Evidence supporting the use of: Lactobacillus bulgaricus
For the health condition: Vaginitis

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 2

Lactobacillus bulgaricus is a species of lactic acid bacteria commonly used in the production of yogurt. Its use to support or treat vaginitis, particularly bacterial vaginosis and vulvovaginal candidiasis, is based on the broader application of Lactobacillus species for vaginal health. The healthy vaginal microbiota is typically dominated by Lactobacillus species, which help maintain a low pH and inhibit the growth of pathogens through the production of lactic acid and bacteriocins. Most scientific studies and clinical trials have focused on Lactobacillus rhamnosus, Lactobacillus reuteri, and Lactobacillus crispatus, with evidence showing that certain strains can reduce recurrence and symptoms of vaginitis, especially when administered orally or intravaginally as probiotics.

However, direct scientific evidence for the effectiveness of Lactobacillus bulgaricus specifically in treating or preventing vaginitis is limited. Some probiotic formulations for vaginal health do include L. bulgaricus, often in combination with other Lactobacillus species. A few small studies and in vitro experiments suggest it may be able to colonize the vaginal environment and inhibit pathogens, but robust clinical trials are lacking. As such, while the general approach of using Lactobacillus probiotics for vaginitis is supported by moderate scientific evidence, the specific use of L. bulgaricus is justified more by extrapolation rather than strong direct evidence. Therefore, the evidence rating is 2/5.

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