Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 3

Lactobacillus crispatus is a probiotic bacterium that is naturally found in the healthy human vaginal and, to a lesser extent, gastrointestinal microbiota. The use of L. crispatus to support or treat antibiotic side effects is primarily based on scientific evidence, although studies are still emerging and the strength of evidence is moderate. Antibiotics can disrupt the natural balance of microbiota, leading to side effects such as antibiotic-associated diarrhea, yeast infections, and increased susceptibility to pathogenic bacteria, especially in the urogenital tract.

Several clinical studies have shown that probiotic strains, including L. crispatus, may help restore normal microbiota after antibiotics. For example, a double-blind randomized controlled trial (Macklaim et al., 2015) demonstrated that intravaginal administration of L. crispatus after antibiotic treatment for bacterial vaginosis reduced recurrence rates compared to placebo. Additionally, L. crispatus supplementation has been associated with a decreased risk of antibiotic-associated vulvovaginal candidiasis, as it helps maintain an acidic vaginal environment hostile to pathogens.

However, while the evidence for supporting vaginal health after antibiotics is growing, the data for prevention of antibiotic-associated diarrhea or broader gastrointestinal side effects is weaker, with most studies focusing on other Lactobacillus species. Overall, the scientific justification for L. crispatus use is strongest in the context of preventing vaginal microbiota disturbances following antibiotics, but further high-quality, large-scale studies are needed to confirm broader benefits.

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