Bacterial Vaginosis

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For decades, some women have used Lactobacillus acidophilus in yogurt or supplements to treat bacterial vaginosis. But dairy lactobacillus does not work for bacterial vaginosis. This is because dairy lactobacillus is not the kind of bacteria that normally live in the vagina.8

Researchers are studying the two different types of lactobacillus—L. crispatus and L. jensenii—that are most commonly found in a healthy vagina.7 These lactobacilli may prove to be an effective treatment for bacterial vaginosis.


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Author: Caroline Rea, RN, BS, MSLast Updated: March 17, 2008
Medical Review: Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine
Jeanne Marrazzo, MD, MPH - Infectious Disease

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