Probiotics for Yeast Infection: What Works and What Doesn't

When you get a yeast infection, your body’s natural balance is off—probiotics for yeast infection, live microorganisms that help restore healthy bacteria in the body. Also known as good bacteria, they’re not magic, but they can help when used the right way. Most yeast infections are caused by Candida albicans, a type of fungus that normally lives in small amounts in the gut and vagina. When it overgrows—thanks to antibiotics, sugar, stress, or hormonal shifts—it causes itching, burning, and thick discharge. Probiotics don’t kill Candida directly. Instead, they crowd it out, lower vaginal pH, and strengthen your body’s own defenses.

Not all probiotics are equal. The ones that actually help with yeast infections are mostly Lactobacillus, a genus of bacteria that dominates healthy vaginal flora. Specific strains like L. rhamnosus GR-1 and L. reuteri RC-14 have been studied in clinical trials and shown to reduce recurrence. These strains don’t just survive in the gut—they travel to the vagina, stick to the lining, and fight off bad bugs. Other strains, like L. acidophilus, are common in yogurt but don’t stick around well enough to make a real difference in the vaginal area. Oral supplements work, but direct vaginal use (suppositories or capsules) gets the bacteria right where they’re needed. A 2020 review of 10 studies found women who used probiotic suppositories had 50% fewer repeat infections compared to those who didn’t.

What doesn’t work? Eating yogurt alone. While it’s healthy, most store-bought yogurts have too little live culture, and the strains aren’t the right ones. Same with garlic pills or apple cider vinegar douches—no solid proof they help, and douching can make things worse. Probiotics also won’t replace antifungal meds like fluconazole if you’re having a bad flare-up. But they’re a smart add-on: use them after antibiotics, during your cycle, or if you get infections often. They’re safe, cheap, and have zero side effects for most people.

Look for supplements with at least 10 billion CFUs, live strains, and refrigerated packaging (unless it’s shelf-stable with proven stability). Brands that list exact strain names—not just "Lactobacillus blend"—are more trustworthy. And remember: consistency matters. You won’t see results in two days. Give it 2-4 weeks, then keep taking them weekly to maintain balance.

Below, you’ll find real-world comparisons and science-backed insights on how probiotics stack up against other treatments, what to avoid, and which products actually deliver on their promises.