Synopsis

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

Lactobacillus acidophilus is a probiotic bacterium commonly found in the human gut and vagina. Its use for bladder infections (urinary tract infections, UTIs) is primarily based on traditional or empirical practices rather than strong scientific evidence. The rationale for its use is that probiotics, including L. acidophilus, may help restore or maintain a healthy balance of bacteria in the urogenital tract, potentially inhibiting the growth of pathogens responsible for infections. Historical and traditional use stems from the observation that women with recurrent UTIs often have disrupted vaginal flora, and supplementation with probiotics has been proposed as a way to restore protective lactobacilli.

However, the direct scientific evidence supporting the effectiveness of L. acidophilus, specifically for the prevention or treatment of bladder infections, is limited and inconclusive. Most clinical trials and reviews have focused on other Lactobacillus species, such as L. rhamnosus and L. reuteri, with mixed results. Some studies suggest a potential benefit in reducing UTI recurrence when probiotics are used as adjuncts, but the quality of evidence is low, and L. acidophilus is not consistently singled out as effective. Major guidelines do not recommend probiotics as a primary treatment for bladder infections due to insufficient data.

In summary, the use of L. acidophilus for bladder infection is mainly supported by traditional and theoretical reasoning, with only modest and indirect scientific support. More robust clinical trials are needed to clarify its role.

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