The Best Probiotics for Women, According to a Women's Health Expert

A registered nurse weighs in on why women should take a probiotic supplement and how to pick the right one for you.

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Probiotics are a group of microscopic living organisms that provide the body with a number of health benefits, such as maintaining a healthy balance of good bacteria in the colon, aiding in the digestion and absorption of important nutrients and boosting the immune system (1).

"Probiotic benefits for women include improved digestive health, relief from gastrointestinal symptoms and yeast infections (2), and potential support for reproductive health (3)," says Raj Dasgupta, MD. "Probiotic supplements may also help with maintaining a balanced gut microbiota during and after taking an antibiotic."

While you are able to consume probiotics through dietary food sources like yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut, kimchi and kombucha, many people prefer to take probiotics in a supplement form. However, this can be confusing since probiotic supplements come in a variety of forms, culture counts and types of bacterial strains.

In this roundup, we’re reviewing the best probiotic supplements for women to help you find the right probiotic supplement for your health and wellness needs. We’ve also included a guide to understanding the benefits of probiotics for women’s health and what to look for when choosing the best product for you in 2024. 

You should consult with your health care provider before starting probiotic supplements, especially if you are immunocompromised, are pregnant or trying to conceive, had a recent illness or surgery, are currently taking antibiotics or have been told to monitor your vitamin K intake. Do not use probiotics to delay seeking medical advice or care.

Our Top Picks for the Best Probiotic for Women in 2024:

• Best Overall Probiotic for Women: Ritual Synbiotic+
• Best Women's Probiotic for Stress: YourBiology gut+
• Best Women's Probiotic for Vaginal Health: Transparent Labs Probiotic
• Best Prebiotic + Probiotic: Ritual Synbiotic+
• Best Vegan Probiotic for Women: Transparent Labs Probiotic
• Best Probiotic for Active Women: Legion Athletics Biome
• Best Women's Probiotic for Digestive Support: YourBiology gut+
• Best Women's Probiotic for Women's Gut Health: Ritual Synbiotic+
• Best Women’s Probiotic for Bloating: Legion Athletics Biome
• Best Probiotic Gummies for Women: Future Kind Vegan Probiotic

Best Overall Probiotic for Women: Ritual Synbiotic+

Get 25% off your first month of Ritual! Code: SI25

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Key features and specs:

• Strains: Prebiotic is PreforPro; Probiotic strains are Lactobacillus rhamnosus (LGG) and Bifidobacterium animalis ssp. Lactis (BB-12); Postbiotic is Corbiome Tributyrin
• CFUs: 11 billion
• Form: Pill
• Certifications: Non-GMO Project Verified, third-party tested
• Price: $54 ($1.80 per serving)
• Dose: 1 pill
• Dosage per container: 30 
• Shelf stable? Yes

Why I picked it:

For complete gut health support and the convenience of never running out, we recommend Ritual Synbiotic+. This Ritual probiotic contains a prebiotic, probiotic and postbiotic, which may help support your immune system, reduce bloating and promote the growth of good bacteria in your colon. The formula provides 11 billion CFUs per dose and includes two of the heavily studied strains: Lactobacillus rhamnosus (LGG) and Bifidobacterium animalis ssp. Lactis (BB-12). It also features a delayed-release capsule, which is designed to help good bacteria make it to the colon, where they can work the best. 

Reviewers seem pleased with the product—it has an average 4.2/5 star rating on Amazon, with 401 ratings at the time of writing. "I am not exaggerating when I say this product changed my life," writes reviewer Wendy Sullivan. "Gone is bloating, stomach pain, constipation and the opposite—sometimes spending hours in a restroom each day...My stomach is flatter, I feel lighter and better." While this isn't everyone's experience with Ritual Synbiotic+, it reflects the majority view of those who have used it and reviewed it online.

For more information on the brand and its supplements, check out our Ritual Vitamins review.

What we love:

• Mint flavored for easier consumption
• Delayed-release capsule to help the probiotics survive your stomach acid
• Includes prebiotics, probiotics and postbiotics
• Vegan and gluten-free
• Made with traceable ingredients

What to consider:

• Uses a probiotic blend that doesn't disclose the amounts of either probiotic
• Formula includes only two probiotic strains

Best Women's Probiotic for Stress: YourBiology gut+

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Key features and specs:

• Strains: 6 strains including Lactobacillus acidophilus, Bifidobacterium lactis, Lactobacillus plantarum, Lactobacillus paracasei, Marine polysaccharide complex and Fructooligosaccharide
• CFUs: 40 billion
• Form: Pill
• Certifications: None listed, though the brand says this probiotic is free of soy, dairy and gluten
• Price: $59.99 ($1.99 per serving)
• Dose: 2 capsules
• Dosage per container: 30 
• Shelf stable? Yes

Why I picked it:

YourBiology gut+ contains 40 billion CFUs per serving with the aim of helping you maintain or improve your gut health. Some research has shown that your brain has an influence on your gut and even mild amounts of stress can affect it (4)(5). This can impact your gut’s ability to produce serotonin, which in turn could also affect your mood and stress levels (6). We like that YourBiology gut+ contains good bacteria and nourishes the probiotic bacteria with fructooligosaccharide, a natural prebiotic fiber.

This women's probiotic supplement also contains brown seaweed extract that can help protect the living probiotics from stomach acid, increasing their survival rate and likelihood that you’ll experience their benefits (7). 

While this supplement is pricier than many similar options, we like that the brand offers free shipping, a 100 percent satisfaction guarantee and savings if you buy more than a one-month supply at a time. If you’re not satisfied after 60 days, you can get a full refund.

What we love:

• Relatively high CFU count per serving when compared to the other probiotics on this list
• Free shipping and a 60 day money back guarantee
• Formula includes six different probiotic strains
• Refrigeration is not required

What to consider:

• Expensive (about $2 per serving)

Best Women’s Probiotic for Vaginal Health: Transparent Labs Probiotic

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Key features and specs:

• Strains: 10 strains including Lactobacillus acidophilus, Lactobacillus rhamnosus, Lactobacillus casei, Lactobacillus plantarum, Lactobacillus paracasei, Bifidobacterium lactis, Lactobacillus salivarius, Streptococcus thermophilus, Bifidobacterium bifidum and Bifidobacterium breve
• CFUs: 100 billion
• Form: Capsule
• Certifications: None listed, but the brand says this probiotic is gluten-free, non-GMO and vegan
• Price: $45.99 ($1.53 per serving)
• Dose: 2 capsules
• Doses per container: 30 
• Shelf stable? Yes

Why I picked it:

Probiotics aren’t just for gut health; they're necessary for vaginal health, as well. A healthy vaginal microbiota is important for avoiding issues with reproductive health and imbalances of vaginal bacteria like bacterial vaginosis (9). Probiotic strains like Lactobacillus are crucial in effectively counterbalancing bad bacteria (8). For women who want to take a probiotic supplement for vaginal health, Transparent Labs contains six Lactobacillus strains, which studies have shown are crucial in maintaining vaginal health (10), plus Bifidobacterium and Streptococcus strains, totaling 100 billion CFUs per serving.

For more information on the brand and its supplements, check out our Transparent Labs review.

What we love:

• The highest CFU-count on our list
• Contains several Lactobacillus strains, which may help promote GI and vaginal wellness (10)
• Less than $2 per serving
• Transparent labeling with no proprietary blends

What to consider:

• Does not contain prebiotics, so you'll want to also use a prebiotic supplement with this probiotic 

Best Prebiotic + Probiotic: Ritual Synbiotic+

Get 25% off your first month of Ritual! Code: SI25

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Key features and specs:

• Strains: Prebiotic is PreforPro; Probiotic strains are Lactobacillus rhamnosus (LGG) and Bifidobacterium animalis ssp. Lactis (BB-12); Postbiotic is Corbiome Tributyrin
• CFUs: 11 billion
• Form: Pill
• Certifications: Non-GMO Project Verified, third-party tested
• Price: $54 ($1.80 per serving)
• Dose: 1 pill
• Dosage per container: 30 
• Shelf stable? Yes

Why I picked it:

Ritual Synbiotic+ is a combination of a prebiotic and probiotic blend, but with the bonus of postbiotics, which are the result of probiotics consuming prebiotics (11). This probiotic supplement is formulated to help balance your gut bacteria, support immune function and relieve mild and occasional symptoms of gas, bloating and diarrhea, though individual responses will vary.

Customer reviews for this product are Amazon are mostly positive, averaging 4.2/5 stars at the time of writing. “This is the first probiotic I’ve ever taken that is easy to remember to take, because I am actually noticing a difference in my gut health—mood, bloating, energy levels, etc.,” writes verified Amazon purchaser Iain Grae. “I’ve tried many of the top rated and publicized probiotics and this one clearly stands out. I’ll be re-purchasing.” 

However, several reviewers also complained about the product’s cost. “I was pleased with it, but it's quite expensive,” writes Nicole Maddocks on Amazon. “I have not purchased again, but will if the price goes down."

Ritual also offers a flexible subscription service to make it easier to keep your supply stocked. The subscription service includes free shipping, a money-back guarantee and the flexibility to cancel anytime. 

What we love:

• Mint flavored for easier consumption
• Delayed-release capsule to help the probiotics survive your stomach acid
• Includes prebiotics, probiotics and postbiotics
• Vegan and gluten-freeMade with traceable ingredients

What to consider:

• Uses a probiotic blend that doesn't disclose the amounts of either probiotic
• Formula includes only two probiotic strains

Best Vegan Probiotic for Women: Transparent Labs Probiotic

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Key features and specs:

• Strains: 10 strains including Lactobacillus acidophilus, Lactobacillus rhamnosus, Lactobacillus casei, Lactobacillus plantarum, Lactobacillus paracasei, Bifidobacterium lactis, Lactobacillus salivarius, Streptococcus Thermophilus, Bifidobacterium bifidum and Bifidobacterium breve
• CFUs: 10 billion
• Form: Capsule
• Certifications: None listed, but the brand says this probiotic is vegan, non-GMO and gluten-free
• Price: $45.99 ($1.53 per serving)
• Dose: 2 capsules
• Doses per container: 30 
• Shelf stable? Yes

Why I picked it:

One of the top probiotic supplements for women, Transparent Labs Probiotic contains a substantial dose of beneficial probiotic strains: 100 billion CFUs from 10 different probiotics, including Lactobacillus, Bifidobacterium and Streptococcus strains. These particular strains are used for gut support, as they are heavily researched for their powerful effects on the GI tract.

We also like that it’s gluten-free, non-GMO and vegan, making it suitable for most diets.

“I recently bought this in conjunction with the Greens Prebiotic supplement,” writes verified buyer Megan P on the Transparent Labs website. “I take both in the morning, and I feel like together they do help my digestive system. No weird side effects.”

What we love:

• Gluten free, non-GMO and vegan
• Provides a large dose of beneficial probiotics
• Each serving costs under $2.00

What to consider:

• Does not include a prebiotic; that must be taken separately

Best Probiotic for Active Women: Legion Athletics Biome

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Key features and specs:

• Strain: Probiotic strains are Bifidobacterium lactis (B420), Bacillus subtilis (DE111, Lactobacillus plantarum (299v), Prebiotic is PreticX® Xylooligosaccharide
• CFUs: 25 billion
• Form: Capsule
• Certifications: Third-party tested by Labdoor
• Price: $49.99 ($1.67 per serving)
• Dose: 2 capsules
• Doses per container: 30
• Shelf stable: Yes, though Legion recommends storing in a cool, dark place to maintain potency

Why I picked it:

Biome is a probiotic supplement by sports supplement brand Legion Athletics. It's formulated with 25 billion CFUs of probiotics per serving, including 10 billion CFUs of the probiotic strain Bifidobacterium lactis (B420). Studies suggest that B420 may be beneficial for weight management and metabolic health, and upcoming research will help nail down the exact mechanisms and the conditions in which it works best (14). 

Biome also contains 10 billion CFUs per serving of Lactobacillus plantarum (299v). According to research, this probiotic strain has potent anti-inflammatory properties (15). Lactobacillus plantarum, has also been shown to significantly elevate athletic performance and decrease biomarkers of fatigue during exercise (16). 

The third strain of probiotic bacteria included in Biome, Bacillus subtilis (DE111), has been shown in studies to improve cholesterol levels and mitigate risk factors associated with cardiovascular disease (17). 

What we love:

• Formulated with clinically effective doses of probiotics
• No artificial sweeteners or dyes
• Money-back guarantee
• Third-party tested by Labdoor

What to consider:

• Some reviewers say this product upset their stomachs

Best Women’s Probiotic for Digestive Support: YourBiology gut+

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Key features and specs:

• Strains: 6 strains including Lactobacillus acidophilus, Bifidobacterium lactis, Lactobacillus plantarum, Lactobacillus paracasei, Marine polysaccharide complex and Fructooligosaccharide
• CFUs: 40 billion
• Form: Pill
• Certifications: None listed, but the brand says this probiotic is free of soy, dairy and gluten
• Price: $59.99 ($1.99 per serving)
• Dose: 2 capsules
• Dosage per container: 30 
• Shelf stable? Yes

Why I picked it:

Digestion is a complex process, and the process is heavily dependent on several factors to run as efficiently as possible. One of those factors is your gut health. A healthy gut helps ensure the full digestion of foods and efficient absorption of the essential vitamins, minerals and other nutrients needed for all of the body's functions. To support healthy digestive and immune systems, you need strong, healthy bacteria. For this, we recommend YourBiology gut+.

YourBiology gut+ has 40 billion CFU of live, active bacteria per serving. Together, the six strains of bacteria may reduce inflammation in your colon, control diarrhea and promote nutrient absorption from your food (18). YourBiology gut+ also includes fructooligosaccharide, a natural prebiotic fiber that the bacteria feeds on.

What we love:

• Supports a strong digestive system
• Includes fructooligosaccharide, which nourishes the probiotics until you consume the supplement
• Money-back guarantee

What to consider:

• Expensive (around $2.00 per serving)

Best Probiotic for Women’s Gut Health: Ritual Synbiotic+

Get 25% off your first month of Ritual! Code: SI25

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Key features and specs:

• Strains: Prebiotic PreforPro; probiotic Lactobacillus rhamnosus (LGG) and Bifidobacterium animalis Lactis (BB-12); postbiotic CoreBiome
• CFUs: 11 billion
• Form: Capsule
• Certifications: Non-GMO Project Verified, third-party tested
• Price: $54 ($1.80 per serving) 
• Dose: 1 vegan capsule daily
• Dosage per container: 30
• Shelf stable? Yes

Why I picked it:

Ritual Synbiotic+ is a 3-in-1 supplement that supports overall gut health and healthy digestion. Synbiotic+ has a patent-pending prebiotic called PreforPro that feeds the 11 billion CFU probiotics contained in the supplement. The probiotic strains in Synbiotic+ are Lactobacillus rhamnous and bifidobacterium animalis lactis (BB-12). BB-12 is one of the most studied probiotic strains, and it may improve bowel function and increase the body’s resistance to seasonal respiratory infections like the cold and flu (19).

This supplement also includes a postbiotic, CoreBiome (a patented version of tributyrin), that could help balance your gut microbiome. The research is limited, but a recent clinical trial found that supplementing with 300 milligrams of tributyrin daily for three weeks increased the presence of healthy bacteria in the gut (20).

What we love:

• Includes two of the most clinically studied probiotic strains: LGG and BB-12
• Made Traceable ingredients that can be tracked from sourcing to manufacturing
• Third-party tested for purity and potency
• Combines a prebiotic that can help the probiotic bacteria colonize your digestive tract
• Only one capsule daily

What to consider:

• More expensive than most of the probiotics on our list ($1.80 per serving)

Best Women’s Probiotic for Bloating: Legion Athletics Biome

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Key features and specs:

• Strain: Probiotic strains are Bifidobacterium lactis (B420), Bacillus subtilis (DE111, Lactobacillus plantarum (299v). Prebiotic is PreticX® Xylooligosaccharide
• CFUs: 25 billion
• Form: Capsule
• Certifications: Labdoor certified
• Price: $49.99 ($1.67 per serving)
• Dose: 2 capsules
• Doses per container: 30 
• Shelf stable: No, but Legion recommends storing it in a cool, dark place to maintain its potency

Why I picked it:

If bloating or gas plague your day, check out Legion Athletics Biome. This supplement is formulated to help tackle your tummy troubles by combining three strains of probiotics along with prebiotic fiber. We love that Legion uses clinically effective doses of each ingredient, meaning the amount needed to produce a biological response and that those ingredients have been studied for their health benefits.

Biome contains 100 million CFUs per servings of Lactobacillus plantarum (299v). Research shows this probiotic strain has benefits for gastrointestinal health, specifically reducing the frequency and severity of stomach pain and bloating (15). 10 billion CFUs per serving of Bifidobacterium lactis (B420) are also included in Biome. Early studies show this probiotic strain may benefit metabolic health and the gut’s immune system, but more research is needed (20). In addition to probiotics, Biome contains the prebiotic PreticX® Xylooligosaccharide. Some studies indicate that Xylooligosaccharide can reduce intestinal inflammation which causes stomach pain, gas and bloating (21).

Related Post: The Best Supplements for Bloating

What we love:

• Formulated with clinically effective doses of the probiotics
• No artificial sweeteners or dyes
• Money-back guarantee

What to consider:

• Some reviewers say this product upset their stomachs

Best Probiotic Gummies for Women: Future Kind Vegan Probiotic Gummies

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Key features and specs:

• Strains: Bacillus subtilis
• CFUs: 5 billion
• Form: Gummy
• Certifications: Third-party tested (we couldn't find the lab)
• Price: $29.99 ($0.99 per serving)
• Dose: 2 capsules
• Doses per container: 30
• Shelf stable: Yes

Why I picked it:

You’ve probably noticed that almost all of the probiotic supplements on our list are capsules, and a handful are pills. If you have trouble swallowing pills or capsules, or if you have a medical condition that requires a chewable version, we’ve got you covered. Future Kind Vegan Probiotic gummies are a great-tasting, chewable alternative to capsules and pills.

Future Kind is a vegan supplement company with a mission to support people trying to follow a vegan diet. This probiotic is meant to help vegans who are struggling with constipation or feeling bloated due to the high fiber nature of a plant-based diet. To combat this, Future Kind probiotic supplement contains only one strain of bacteria: Bacillus subtilis. Bacillus subtilis is shown to fortify the intestinal lining, which reduces inflammation and helps the digestive system pass hard-to-digest foods (25).

Related Post: The 11 Best Vegan Multivitamins and Supplements

What we love:

• Vegan formula
• Easy-to-chew gummy form 
• Budget-friendly (about $1.00 per serving)
• Contains Bacillus subtilis, which may reduce inflammation in the intestines (25)

What to consider:

• Only one strain of bacteria to address a specific problem
• Low CFU count (most probiotic supplements have at least 10 billion CFUs per serving)

Women’s Health Benefits of Taking a Probiotic

Probiotics have been widely tested, and are known to help manage bloating, constipation and diarrhea, as well as support your immune system, gut health and mental health (26)(27). Research is also beginning to show how poor sleep hurts our gut microbiota and how probiotics can improve the quality of your sleep (28). 

“I wouldn’t say that the benefits [of probiotics] for women versus men are different,” says Emily Buchholtz, RD, CDN, CSO. “But there are so many studies now that show that the healthier our gut microbiome is, the healthier we are in every aspect.”

Related Post: The Best Probiotics for Constipation

Gut health

“Women are two to six times more likely to experience irritable bowel syndrome than men, with inflammatory bowel disease [and are] being diagnosed at a rate of 2:1 compared with men,” says Sharon Squibb, MS, CNM, ARNP, NCMP. Probiotic supplements can help promote digestive health by improving the balance of good to bad bacteria in the gut. Having a healthy gut microbiota reduces the risk of common digestive issues like bloating, constipation and diarrhea.

“Prebiotics promote the growth of beneficial bacteria in the gut and helps to maintain that balance in the microorganisms that are growing naturally in our gut,” Buchholtz says. They also help with enhanced digestion and nutrient absorption. “Obviously if we're eating healthy foods, we want our body to be able to digest all of them and absorb them properly.”

Healthy bacteria

Everyone has both good and bad bacteria that live inside and outside of the body, but the female body also hosts beneficial bacteria and microbes in the vagina. However, various things can cause an imbalance in vaginal flora, including unprotected sex, hormone changes, poor hygiene, menstruation, taking antibiotics, tight clothing and the use of scented hygiene products. When there are changes in the vaginal flora, this can lead to issues like bacterial vaginosis (BV). Fortunately, probiotics can support digestive and vaginal health by balancing vaginal pH and preventing recurrent vaginal infections (29). New evidence shows that taking a women's probiotic and vitamin D simultaneously may help improve the symptoms of polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) (30)(31).

Strong immune system

Probiotic supplements may help support a healthy immune system by promoting the growth of beneficial bacteria in the gut, stimulating the production of antibodies and other immune cells in the body and reducing inflammation (32)(33). That being said, these effects can vary depending on the specific strain of bacteria, and more research is needed to fully understand their potential benefits for immune function. Still, Squibb says that probiotic supplements can make a real difference. “For some women, taking probiotics and adopting a healthier lifestyle means a decrease in antibiotics and trips to their provider to treat vaginal infections,” she said.

Healthy skin

There is some evidence to suggest that probiotics may help improve skin health by promoting a healthy balance of bacteria on the skin (34). These beneficial microorganisms can help reduce the overgrowth of harmful bacteria that can contribute to skin problems such as acne, eczema and rosacea. They may also help improve the skin’s function as a natural barrier to the outside world, which can reduce the risk of infection and inflammation.

Related Post: The 10 Best Vitamins and Supplements for Healthy, Glowing Skin

Weight management

There is some evidence to suggest that probiotics for women may play a role in women's weight loss and management, although more research is needed to fully understand their effects, Buchholtz says. “Women that are hitting menopause struggle with this more—they may struggle with midsection weight gain, difficulty losing weight, lower metabolism,” she says. “What it does is it increases the feeling of fullness, it helps regulate appetite. It can influence the release of certain hormones involved, and energy balance.” Certain strains in particular have been shown to help reduce body weight and lower body mass index, as well as improve insulin sensitivity and metabolic health (35)(36). 

Related Post: The Best Probiotics for Weight Loss

Mental health

Recent studies have also suggested that our gut health can affect our mood and mental health, Buchholtz says—and that prebiotics and probiotics may have a positive impact.

“Probiotics can enhance the gut-brain axis, potentially contributing to improved mood, reduced anxiety and enhanced cognitive function,” she says.

“When we have healthy gut microbiome, studies show that our serotonin levels are better, our mood is better, our anxiety is better. But when we're feeling anxious and stressed, it actually can negatively impact the hormonal imbalance and the probiotic balance as well.”

What to Look for When Picking a Probiotic for Women

Strains

Each strain of probiotic has its benefits. Aligning your goal (e.g., managing constipation) with the strain of probiotic (e.g., Lactobacillus acidophilus) will help you meet your health goals. A quick internet search or a visit with your health care provider can help you figure out which strain is right for you.

CFU count

Colony-forming units (CFUs) measure the number of viable colonies or live probiotics in each dose. But more isn’t always better, so talk to your health care provider to help you determine how many CFUs are right for you.

Dosage

The dosage, or how much you need to take and when you should take it, is determined by the manufacturer. You can take most probiotic supplements once daily, but some require you to take them with or without food or more than one capsule at a time.

Form

Most probiotic supplements for women come in a special capsule to ensure that the live bacteria survive the stomach acid and safely arrive in the colon. Probiotics can also come in gummy and liquid forms. Knowing the form of probiotic is especially important if you struggle with swallowing pills.

Certifications

Probiotic supplements are regulated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) after being released to the market, meaning quality and purity testing are not required before being available for purchase. Additionally, probiotics can not be legally advertised by the manufacturer to prevent, treat or cure disease. However, you can measure quality by looking for reputable brands that say they are third-party reviewed and tested. You can also see if a product is certified non-GMO, free of allergens or vegan/vegetarian friendly.

Cost

Cost varies depending on your probiotic of choice. You might be able to get probiotics at a slightly discounted rate if you opt for a subscription, so if you’re working with a strict budget, compare the cost of the options on our list to choose the best supplement for your needs.

How Women Can Use Probiotics

Probiotic supplements are most effective when taken as part of a healthy diet and exercise regimen. You should not use probiotics as a substitute for poor eating habits, such as a diet high in sugar and/or ultra-processed foods. Furthermore, you can naturally source probiotics from fermented foods, like yogurt, cottage cheese, kefir, sauerkraut, kombucha and kimchi. Most experts suggest aiming for at least one serving of one of those per day.

Timing is also important. Avoid taking a probiotic at the same time as an antibiotic. Antibiotics kill both the good and the harmful bacteria in your body, so if you are taking a probiotic simultaneously, you are essentially undoing the work of the probiotic. Ask your healthcare provider when it is best to start a probiotic after antibiotic use.

Last, carefully read the label. The manufacturer will tell you the best way to use its probiotic.

When to See a Doctor

"Women should consult a doctor or healthcare provider if they experience persistent or severe gastrointestinal symptoms such as chronic diarrhea, bloody stools, unexplained weight loss or intense abdominal pain," says Dasgupta. 

Additionally, when kicking off a daily probiotic supplement, your body may react to the new bacteria with possible bloating and gastric distress. If it continues or escalates in terms of discomfort or pain, get in touch with a healthcare provider to see if you need to discontinue use or what next steps to take.

Methodology: How We Chose the Best Women's Probiotics

Each probiotic we review is put through our probiotic scoring methodology, which grades the product on seven primary categories:

• Form: We consider how easy it is to consume the probiotic based on its form—capsule, tablet, powder, gummy or chewable. We also consider whether or not the probiotic has an enteric coating designed to protect the probiotics as they journey to the colon.
• Cultures included: Different probiotic strains offer different benefits and are backed by various levels of research. We look for the probiotic strains that have been extensively studied in clinical trials, demonstrating their effectiveness for specific health conditions.
• Whether cultures are alive: For probiotics to be effective, these microorganisms must be alive and active when consumed and when they reach the colon. We give the highest marks to products that contain and deliver viable microorganisms.
• Number of colony forming units (CFUs): CFUs represent the number of live microorganisms, typically bacteria, present in a probiotic supplement at the end of its shelf life. We look for probiotics that provide at least 20 billion or more CFUs.
• Inclusion of prebiotics: Encapsulating probiotics with a food source can help protect the beneficial bacteria from harsh stomach acids and bile, increasing their chances of survival as they pass through the digestive system and reaching the intestines where they are needed (37). As such, products with prebiotics earn the full score in this category.
• Exclusion of proprietary blends: We look for products that provide clear information about the specific strains of probiotics contained in the formulation. Proprietary blends often do not disclose the specific strains or their respective concentrations used in the product, and so products without transparent labeling don’t earn any points in this category.
• Third-party certifications: Third-party testing for purity and potency is rewarded in a probiotic's score. Specifically, we look for certifications from NSF, USP, Labdoor and Informed Choice. The most important certification for probiotic supplements is Informed Choice Informed Sport. This certification is critical for athletes who might get drug tested for their sport.

We also received input from our panel of expert contributors, which includes registered dietitians and highly credentialed experts in sports nutrition and exercise science. 

Learn more about our supplement and wellness product review process and our probiotic scoring methodology.

Women's Probiotic FAQs

What are the signs you need a probiotic?

Not everyone needs probiotics, says Buchholtz. “If someone is eating a well-balanced diet, they are not on medication and they're not antibiotics, then they might not need probiotics.” 

But there are certain groups that should consider adding them to their diet. “People that have complaints of bloating after eating, gas, diarrhea, constipation, things like that—those people, in working with a dietitian, might find probiotics to be helpful,” Buchholtz says. “Anyone with a weakened immune system may benefit—so people who are on chemotherapy or on another medication that has the ability to lower your immune system.”

She also says that people who are on antibiotics, or those who are traveling to a place where they may be eating different foods than normal would be good candidates for probiotics. They may also be helpful for people who have chronic conditions, such as irritable bowel syndrome or lactose intolerance, she says.

Common signs that you may benefit from a probiotic supplement include:

• GI distress symptoms like gas, bloating, diarrhea or constipation
• Recurrent yeast infections, bacterial vaginosis or UTIs
• Recurrent illness, a recent illness, food poisoning or taking an antibiotic
• Skin conditions like acne, eczema or psoriasis
• Difficulty sleeping
• Allergies or asthma

Do probiotics help women lose or gain weight?

Some studies show that probiotics may aid in weight gain or loss; it just depends on which strain you are taking, your overall diet, your exercise and even your daily sleep. For example, Lactobacillus acidophilus may aid in weight gain, whereas Lactobacillus gasseri may aid in weight loss (38). However, there is more to weight gain or loss than just taking a probiotic supplement.

Squibb says, “I let women know that losing weight is more than calories and exercise. What we eat and how and when we eat can significantly impact our weight and the weight distribution (where our weight settles) in our bodies, especially for women.”

When is the best time for women to take probiotics?

According to Squibb, “Probiotics are most effective when taken on an empty stomach or at night before bed. Taking probiotics at least 30 minutes before a meal helps more of the bacteria survive by getting through the gastrointestinal system.” Above all though, Squibb stresses the importance of reading the label and that “consistency is the most important [thing].”

Are probiotics safe during pregnancy?

Probiotics have been shown to be safe for healthy individuals (39), and many studies point to probiotic supplements being okay to use during pregnancy (40); however, research is still ongoing about its efficacy to support both mothers and babies.

Dasgupta says, "Generally, probiotics are considered safe for pregnant women, especially when derived from natural food sources like yogurt. However, it's essential for pregnant women to consult with their healthcare provider before starting any new supplement, including probiotics."

How often should women take probiotics?

If you eat fermented foods or dairy products regularly, you are naturally incorporating probiotic-rich food sources into your diet. Different types of fiber (including fiber supplements) are also critical to feed your microbiota. All supplements listed here are for daily use, formulated to help keep your immune system functioning at its best. 

What is the best probiotic strain for women?

There’s not one best probiotic supplement for women, as the effects of probiotics can vary depending on a number of individual lifestyle factors. Some strains of probiotics have been studied more extensively than others and may offer some specific benefits to women’s health, such as Lactobacillus rhamnosus, which has been used in the therapy of bacterial vaginosis (41). A general recommendation when choosing a probiotic supplement is to look for one that contains multiple strains of beneficial bacteria and a sufficient CFU count (at least one billion).

How long do women’s probiotics take to work?

The time it takes for women's probiotics to start working can vary depending on several factors such as the individual's overall health status and the type and dosage of the probiotic supplement being used. In some cases, the probiotics may begin working within a few days or weeks, while other times it may take a few months to experience any noticeable benefits. It’s important to keep in mind that probiotics are not a quick-fix solution and may require consistent use over time to achieve the desired results.

Final Thoughts

Probiotics may offer numerous health benefits for women, ranging from digestive health to immune support to clear skin. Probiotic supplements can be especially helpful for women with gastrointestinal issues and vaginal health concerns. When choosing a probiotic supplement, it's important to look for one with multiple strains of beneficial bacteria and a sufficient CFU count of one billion or greater. As always, it’s recommended to consult with a healthcare professional before starting a new dietary supplement such as a probiotic. 

Prices are accurate and items are in stock as of publishing time.

These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any diseases.

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Expert Contributors

Chris Mohr, RD and PhD

Chris Mohr is a registered dietitian who holds a Ph.D. in exercise physiology. He has worked with athletes ranging from NFL players to WWE wrestlers, along with celebrities and executives worldwide. He has been a featured speaker at many conferences around the world.

Eddie Jo, PhD

Dr. Eddie Jo is a Professor of Exercise Physiology and Director of the Cal Poly Pomona Human Performance Research Lab. His research serves to innovate and advance the application of exercise training methodologies, nutrient intake, and technologies for the optimization of human health and performance, energy metabolism, body composition, and endocrine function. He has over 8 years of experience as Expert Witness: exercise-related personal injury.

Tim Ziegenfuss, PhD, CSCS, FISSN

Tim Ziegenfuss, PhD, CSCS, FISSN, is a standout in the world of sports nutrition and exercise science, bolstered by graduate degrees from Purdue University and Kent State University. Beyond academia, he serves as a Past President and Fellow of The International Society of Sports Nutrition. As CEO of The Center for Applied Health Sciences, his focus is overseeing innovative research with real-world impact and guiding product ideation and creation for major retailers all around the world.

Jenevieve Roper, Ph.D, CSCS.

Dr. Jen Roper is an Associate Professor of Health and Human Sciences at Loyola Marymount University. She received her PhD in Physical Education, Sports and Exercise Science in 2015 from the University of New Mexico, with a specialization in Exercise Science and Biomechanics. She currently teaches a wide variety of courses, including Nutrition, Kinesiology and Scientific Principles of Strength & Conditioning.

Raj Dasgupta, MD, FACP, FCCP, FAASM

Dr. Raj is a quadruple board-certified physician by the American Board of Internal Medicine, specializing in internal medicine, pulmonology, critical care and sleep medicine. He is also an active clinical researcher with more than 20 years of experience teaching around the world. 

Rob Wildman, PhD, RD, LD, CISSN, FISSN

Rob received his PhD from The Ohio State University, earned his MS from Florida State University and his BS from the University of Pittsburgh. He is a registered and licensed dietitian.He is currently Principal at Demeter Consultants, a food and dietary supplement consulting agency, and is working with several brands, including Sports Illustrated Showcase. He is the creator of TheNutritionDr.com and the founder of the International Protein Board (iPB), the global authority in Protein Matters. 

Additional contributors:

• Sharon Squibb, MS, CNM, ARNP, NCMP
• Emily Buchholtz, RD, CDN, CSO

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