Exploring the potential of probiotics in preventing recurrent urogenital infections: a pilot study
Year: 2024
Type: article
Abstract: Urogenital infections, including bacterial vaginosis, yeast vaginitis, and urinary tract infections, affect millions of women globally, leading to complications such as infertility, chronic pain, and increased susceptibility to sexually transmitted diseases. While antibiotics remain the primary treatment, their long-term use can result in side effects and antibiotic resistance. This study investigates the potential of probiotics, specifically Lactobacillus fermentum and Lactobacillus rhamnosus, to restore vaginal microbiota balance and reduce oxidative stress in women with recurrent urogenital infections. Forty women aged 18-50 participated in a 90-day multicentric study in Italian clinics, divided into probiotic and placebo groups. Results showed that probiotic treatment significantly increased antioxidant potential by 45.18% and decreased total oxidant capacity by 25.46%, compared to placebo. Probiotics also enhanced lactobacilli dominance, restored vaginal microbiota, and normalized epithelial health. These findings suggest that probiotics could be a safer, long-term alternative to antibiotics for managing recurrent urogenital infections, improving overall urogenital health, and reducing infection risk. Further research with larger populations and extended study periods is warranted to validate these results.
Source: Oral & Implantology
Authors: Roberto Vito Giorgio, Benito Francesco Pio Pennacchio, Micaela Del Vecchio, Nicola Sguera, Filippo Cardarelli, Lucia Memè, Fabrizio Bambini, Ioana Roxana Bordea, Erda Qorri, Gustavo Vicentis Oliveira Fernandes, Lwai Almasri, Marwa Alkassab, Maher Almasri, Andrea Palermo
Language: English
Subfield: Microbiology
Field: Immunology and Microbiology
Domain: Life Sciences
Open Access status: diamond
OpenAlex ID: W4407280224