Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 3

Lactobacillus lactis (more accurately, Lactococcus lactis) is sometimes confused with the various Lactobacillus species commonly used in probiotic therapies for vaginitis. Most of the scientific evidence and clinical research for the use of probiotics in vaginitis support Lactobacillus species such as L. crispatus, L. rhamnosus, and L. reuteri, which are natural inhabitants of a healthy vaginal microbiome and help maintain acidic pH and inhibit pathogen growth. In contrast, Lactococcus lactis is not a dominant vaginal species, but there is some emerging evidence that it may have beneficial effects in restoring or supporting the vaginal flora due to its ability to produce lactic acid and bacteriocins that suppress harmful bacteria.

The evidence supporting the use of Lactococcus lactis (or products labeled as Lactobacillus lactis) for treating or preventing vaginitis is limited but growing, primarily consisting of in vitro studies and a small number of clinical trials showing modest benefits in reducing symptoms or recurrence of infections like bacterial vaginosis or vulvovaginal candidiasis. However, the quality and quantity of this evidence are lower compared to more established Lactobacillus strains. Therefore, although there is a scientific rationale and preliminary support for its use, it is not yet considered a first-line probiotic for vaginitis based on current research.

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