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  • The gut-vaginal connection: a balanced microbiome is key to women's health.
  • Probiotics, especially GR-1 and RC-14, can help restore and maintain vaginal health.
  • Daily probiotic supplementation can reduce the risk of recurrent UTIs and thrush.

Recurrent urinary tract infections (UTIs) and incidences of thrush are common challenges many women face, and can cause discomfort and disruption to daily life. Whilst antibiotics and antifungals are a popular go-to treatment, there’s growing interest in preventive approaches to reduce the frequency of these infections. Recent research highlights the key role that probiotics play in supporting the vaginal and urinary microbiomes, with specific strains shown to restore balance and even help protect against recurrent infections.

The gut-vaginal connection

Women’s health is intricately connected to the gut, as the intestinal and vaginal microbiomes communicate to maintain balance in the body. This connection is often referred to as the gut-vaginal axis. Restoring microbiome balance through probiotics has been shown to help promote a healthy vaginal epithelium, reducing the risk of conditions like bacterial vaginosis (BV), thrush, and recurrent UTIs.

Clinically-proven probiotic strains

Research suggests that two probiotic strains, Lactobacillus rhamnosus GR-1 and Lactobacillus reuteri RC-14, are particularly beneficial for women’s health. These strains have been extensively studied for their ability to colonise the vagina after oral supplementation, and maintain a balanced vaginal microbiome.

A 2013 study published in the European Journal of Obstetrics & Gynecology and Reproductive Biology demonstrated the effectiveness of GR-1 and RC-14 in women with BV, thrush, and other vaginal infections. After six weeks of supplementation, 61.5% of participants in the probiotic group had restored vaginal microbiota compared to just 26.9% in the placebo group. The benefits continued post-study, with normal microbiota maintained in 55.1% of the probiotic group after six weeks, compared to 20.8% in the placebo group.

Everyday support for women's health

Probiotics are not just a treatment for infections, they also provide a proactive approach to long-term wellness. A daily probiotic formula with targeted strains like GR-1 and RC-14 can help maintain a healthy balance of bacteria in the vaginal and urinary microbiomes, helping to reduce the risk of recurrent infections and supporting overall vitality.

UltraFlora Complete for Women is a comprehensive probiotic designed with women’s health in mind. With strains clinically-proven to support gut and urogenital health, it provides a convenient one-a-day solution for helping to prevent recurrent issues like UTIs and thrush. Its fast-acting formula gets to work in just 30 minutes and stays active for 24 hours, offering around-the-clock support.

A proactive approach to prevention

For women prone to recurrent infections, addressing the root cause through microbiome support could help to make a significant difference. By adding probiotics to a daily routine, alongside adequate hydration and hygiene, it’s possible to reduce the frequency of UTIs and thrush and support overall health.

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