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Lactobacillus crispatus

Also known as: Lactobacillus crispatus, L. crispatus

Overview

Lactobacillus crispatus is a species of lactic acid bacteria predominantly found in the human vagina, where it plays a vital role in maintaining vaginal health. It achieves this by fostering an acidic environment that inhibits the growth of pathogenic bacteria. As a probiotic supplement, L. crispatus is primarily used to support urogenital health, particularly in preventing or treating conditions like bacterial vaginosis and promoting overall vaginal microbiome balance. It is available in various forms, including capsules and vaginal suppositories. Research on L. crispatus is ongoing, with a growing body of evidence supporting its benefits, especially in maintaining vaginal health and reducing the risk of infections. Its effectiveness is attributed to its ability to produce lactic acid, which helps maintain a low vaginal pH, and antimicrobial substances that inhibit harmful bacteria.

Benefits

Lactobacillus crispatus is primarily associated with a reduced risk of bacterial vaginosis and other vaginal infections. It helps maintain a healthy vaginal microbiome, which is crucial for preventing infections. Women with L. crispatus-dominated vaginal microbiota have a lower risk of preterm birth compared to those with low lactobacilli levels. Studies suggest that L. crispatus dominance is associated with a lower risk of preterm birth (OR 1.69, 95% CI 1.15–2.49 for low-lactobacilli states). For bacterial vaginosis, L. crispatus is generally considered beneficial. It may also support immune function and overall urogenital health by producing antibacterial substances and maintaining an acidic pH. These benefits are particularly relevant for reproductive-age women.

How it works

Lactobacillus crispatus primarily functions by producing lactic acid, which helps maintain an acidic vaginal pH, thereby inhibiting the growth of pathogenic bacteria. This acidic environment is crucial for preventing infections and maintaining a healthy vaginal microbiome. Additionally, L. crispatus produces antimicrobial substances that directly target and inhibit the growth of harmful bacteria. It interacts with the immune system and the vaginal microbiome to prevent infections. While specific molecular targets are not well-defined, L. crispatus influences the vaginal microbiome composition and pH, contributing to overall urogenital health.

Side effects

Lactobacillus crispatus is generally considered safe for use as a probiotic supplement. The most commonly reported side effects are mild gastrointestinal symptoms, although specific data on L. crispatus is limited. Uncommon and rare side effects are not well-documented. No significant drug interactions have been reported. There are no specifically identified contraindications, but pregnant women should consult healthcare providers before using any probiotics. It is important to ensure that products contain viable L. crispatus cells and to follow storage instructions to maintain viability. While generally safe, individuals should consult a healthcare provider if pregnant or immunocompromised before use.

Dosage

The minimum effective dose of Lactobacillus crispatus is not well-established, as it is often part of a probiotic blend. Products typically contain 1 × 10^9 CFU/g or more of L. crispatus. The maximum safe dose has not been established. Continuous use may be necessary for sustained benefits. It is available in various forms, including capsules and vaginal suppositories. As it acts locally in the vagina, absorption factors are not applicable. No required cofactors have been identified. Use should be as directed by the product or healthcare provider. It is important to follow storage instructions to maintain viability.

FAQs

How should I use Lactobacillus crispatus?

Use as directed by the product or healthcare provider. Ensure products contain viable L. crispatus cells and follow storage instructions to maintain viability.

Is Lactobacillus crispatus safe?

Generally safe, but consult a healthcare provider if pregnant or immunocompromised before use. Mild gastrointestinal symptoms may occur.

What are the expected results?

May help maintain vaginal health and reduce infection risk. It is not a cure for infections and should be used under medical guidance if treating a condition.

Research Sources

https://journals.lww.com/stdjournal/fulltext/2023/04000/epidemiologic_evidence_on_the_role_of.7.aspx – This study provides epidemiologic evidence on the role of vaginal microbiota in women's health. It highlights the importance of Lactobacillus crispatus-dominated microbiota in reducing the risks of certain infections and adverse health outcomes in reproductive-age women.
https://www.mdpi.com/2076-2607/7/11/524 – This study assessed commercial probiotic products and found that only a few contained viable Lactobacillus crispatus cells at the declared levels. The research underscores the importance of quality control and accurate labeling in probiotic products to ensure consumers receive the intended benefits.
https://pure.johnshopkins.edu/en/publications/the-vaginal-microbiome-and-the-risk-of-preterm-birth-a-systematic – This systematic review examines the association between the vaginal microbiome and the risk of preterm birth. The findings indicate that low lactobacilli levels are associated with an increased risk of preterm birth, highlighting the protective role of a healthy vaginal microbiome dominated by Lactobacillus species.
https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/cellular-and-infection-microbiology/articles/10.3389/fcimb.2021.716537/full – This research explores the mechanisms by which Lactobacillus crispatus contributes to vaginal health. It details how L. crispatus produces lactic acid and antimicrobial substances, which help maintain an acidic vaginal pH and inhibit the growth of pathogenic bacteria, thereby preventing infections.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35562576/ – This study investigates the role of Lactobacillus crispatus in preventing vaginal infections. The findings suggest that L. crispatus dominance in the vaginal microbiome is associated with a reduced risk of bacterial vaginosis and other vaginal infections, emphasizing its importance in maintaining vaginal health.