Skip to content

Review, 2009

Can probiotics help with premenstrual syndrome?

The review notes that probiotics for PMS are described as 'rather hypothetical' and mostly studied by alternative medicine practitioners, without strong scientific evidence.

Early or limited evidence Women, based on review of studies on female health

What they did

Review of clinical studies on probiotics and prebiotics for female health conditions, including potential effects on hormone-related conditions like PMS.

What they found

Most clinical studies on probiotics and prebiotics do not meet pharmaceutical verification standards. Some benefits are noted for maintaining intestinal and urogenital health, bone health, and preventing infections. Use of probiotics for PMS is described as 'rather hypothetical' and is largely studied only by alternative medicine practitioners. Similar uncertainty applies to menopause symptom relief.

What it means for you

While probiotics may help with gut health and some infections, using them specifically for PMS has very limited scientific support and is mostly explored outside mainstream medical research.

About the study

Original title
Health benefits of probiotics and prebiotics in women
Authors
de Vrese M
Journal
Menopause international
Year
2009
Study design
Review
What was tested
Probiotic bacteria and prebiotic carbohydrates

Topics