Regular consumption of yogurt containing Lactobacillus acidophilus may have a prophylactic effect against recurrent vulvovaginal candidiasis in susceptible women.

Abstract

There is frequent discussion in the popular media as well as within the medical community regarding the consumption of “active yogurt cultures” as a means of preventing recurrent yeast infections. Women of all ages may suffer from frequent vaginal yeast infection, and the question “should I be eating yogurt” often comes up during visits to the doctor's office. In short, it appears that eating yogurt which contains the bacteria Lactobacillus acidophilus ("active yogurt cultures") does in fact reduce the frequency of vaginal yeast infections in susceptible women. It is an easy way to combat yeast infections, and may delay or eliminate the need for long-term anti-fungal medications.