November 15, 2024, 2:46 pm | Read time: 3 minutes
Have you ever heard of probiotic tampons? If you suffer from inflammation or diseases in the vaginal area, you probably have. Because the soaked tampons are supposed to help. Carmen Dörfler has summarized for you how this is supposed to work, whether the effect is proven, and why a gynecologist thinks the whole thing is a waste of money.
In recent years, probiotic products aimed at women’s health have garnered increasing attention, including probiotic tampons. These tampons are designed to support the vaginal microbiome and promote a healthy bacterial balance. But what’s the science behind them, and are they truly a wise choice?
How probiotic tampons function
Probiotic tampons are enriched with beneficial bacteria – usually lactobacilli. Lactobacilli are microorganisms that occur naturally in the vaginal flora and perform a protective function there. They help to keep the pH value in a slightly acidic range and suppress the growth of harmful bacteria.
The concept of probiotic tampons is to deliver these ‘beneficial’ bacteria directly to the vagina, thereby supporting the natural equilibrium of the vaginal flora, particularly during menstruation when the pH and bacterial balance are more susceptible to disruption.
Potential pros and cons for vaginal health
Probiotic tampons are said to help women who are prone to recurrent vaginal infections, among other things, as a balanced vaginal microbiome can reduce the risk of infections such as bacterial vaginosis and fungal infections. Women who have already experienced sensitive vaginal flora may also benefit from an additional supply of healthy bacteria. Some women also report an increased sense of well-being and less unpleasant odors.
While probiotic tampons are typically deemed safe, they may cause irritation or allergic reactions in some women, particularly those with sensitive skin. There is also a risk that the bacteria introduced may disrupt the natural balance if they do not exactly match the individual needs of the vaginal flora. If you are unsure, talk to your gynecologist before using them.
The real effectiveness of probiotic tampons
The fact that probiotic tampons actually improve vaginal health in the long term has not yet been sufficiently proven by clinical studies. Some gynecologists warn that the effect of them depends on the individual flora and is not equally suitable for every woman. Those who have no symptoms and have healthy vaginal flora generally do not need probiotic support.
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Expert insights
Gynecologist Dr. Heidi Gößlinghoff also advises against buying probiotic tampons. She explains: “Probiotic tampons have been around for a relatively long time. However, there has never been conclusive evidence of a significant reduction in vaginal infections. Contrarily, these tampons may also produce a drying effect, which can additionally harm the vaginal flora. I myself have always advised my patients not to use them.” Instead, it makes more sense “not to use excessive intimate hygiene and only wash with clean water. Underwear that is mechanically irritating, such as thongs or lace, impermeable panty liners, and tight pants, can also cause irritation and inflammation of the vaginal skin.”
Nevertheless, the doctor understands the idea behind probiotic tampons: “The rationale for the tampons likely stems from the belief that a vagina well-populated with lactic acid bacteria creates a hostile environment for fungi and other harmful bacteria.
However, Dr. Gößlinghoff is very clear about the benefits of the products: “Regarding who benefits from the tampons, the answer is unequivocal: the manufacturer. For those who prefer not to forego probiotics, the gynecologist suggests using them after the menstrual period. Then they no longer bleed, and you don’t have an additional tampon that dries out the vagina. What’s more, the concentration should be higher than in tampons.”