Five Reasons We Support Taking Probiotics During Pregnancy (and beyond!)

Throughout pregnancy, your body undergoes various changes to nurture and protect your developing baby. One essential aspect of our prenatal care at Origins Birth and Wellness Collective is the use of oral probiotics. Probiotics are live beneficial bacteria that play a crucial role in supporting overall health, and their significance during pregnancy can’t be overstated.

Here are five reasons we recommend taking probiotics during your pregnancy:

Probiotics reduce GBS Colonization

Group B Streptococcus (GBS) is a bacterium commonly found in the vagina and rectum of some women, and it poses potential risks to newborns during childbirth. Some studies have suggested that certain probiotic strains, particularly Lactobacillus species, may have the ability to compete with and displace harmful bacteria, including GBS, from the vaginal and intestinal regions. By promoting a balanced vaginal microbiome, probiotics help to play a preventive role in reducing GBS colonization. 

Probiotics improve a babies immune system

Studies have indicated that maternal probiotic consumption during pregnancy and breastfeeding can reduce the risk of allergies in the baby and improve their immune system. A healthy maternal gut flora influences the development of the baby’s immune system, helping to reduce the likelihood of allergic conditions such as eczema and asthma and help to promote wellness for your growing baby.

Probiotics promote healthy vaginal flora

Probiotics are a vital support system for maintaining a healthy and balanced vaginal environment. The vagina contains beneficial bacteria, mainly Lactobacilli, which help keep its natural pH level slightly acidic. This acidity prevents harmful bacteria from taking over and causing infections like bacterial vaginosis and yeast infections. Probiotics taken orally can introduce these helpful bacteria to the vaginal area, restoring the balance and promoting vaginal health.

Probiotics support a healthy blood sugar balance

Gestational diabetes is a form of diabetes that occurs during pregnancy. It can have adverse effects on both the mother and the baby, increasing the risk of complications during childbirth and contributing to long-term health issues. Recent studies suggest that probiotics play a role in preventing gestational diabetes by positively influencing glucose metabolism and insulin sensitivity. Including probiotics in the diet may help mitigate the risk of this condition.

Probiotics reduce eczema

Numerous studies have suggested a link between probiotics and a reduced risk of eczema, a common inflammatory skin condition. By modulating the immune system and reducing inflammation, probiotics may help prevent or alleviate eczema symptoms. While further research is needed to fully understand the mechanisms involved, incorporating probiotics into the diet during pregnancy or early infancy may offer a natural and safe approach to reducing the risk of eczema in children and potentially improving their overall skin health.

• Yogurt
• Kefir
• Sauerkraut
• Kimchi
• Miso
• Tempeh
• Pickles
• Kombucha

When incorporating probiotic-rich foods into your diet, it’s essential to choose products that contain live and active cultures and avoid those that have been pasteurized, as pasteurization can kill the beneficial bacteria. Additionally, it’s a good idea to consume a variety of probiotic sources to ensure a diverse range of beneficial bacteria in your gut. 

Probiotics may not be appropriate for patients who are immune compromised.  Always consult with a healthcare professional, your certified midwife, or a registered dietitian before starting probiotics or any supplement.