Which probiotics are best for pregnancy?
During pregnancy your body undergoes incredible physical, hormonal and emotional changes. Alongside these changes, the trillions of bacteria that live in and on your body, collectively known as your microbiome, also change and adapt. Probiotics, which are beneficial live bacteria and yeasts, can be a safe and effective way to support both maternal and foetal health during this important time. Choosing the right probiotic not only promotes healthy digestion but can also help protect against certain pregnancy-related conditions, enhancing the wellbeing of both mother and baby.
Why Probiotics Matter During Pregnancy
For the mother
Strains such as Lactobacillus rhamnosus GR1 and Lactobacillus reuteri RC14 help maintain an acidic vaginal pH, protect against the overgrowth of unwanted bacteria, and may reduce the risk of bacterial vaginosis and Group B Streptococcus (GBS) colonisation.
Strains such as Lactobacillus rhamnosus HN001 and Bifidobacterium lactis BB12 have been shown to help modulate immune function in pregnancy and promote general health.
Pregnancy hormones can slow digestion, leading to bloating or constipation. Specific probiotics, particularly those containing Bifidobacterium lactis BB12 and Lactobacillus acidophilus LA5, can help encourage bowel regularity and reduce discomfort.
Strains such as Lactobacillus fermentum CECT5716 and Lactobacillus salivarius CECT5713 may help reduce mastitis symptoms and occurrence when used at the first signs.
Probiotics such as Bifidobacterium lactis BB12 can help restore beneficial gut flora during and after antibiotic use, which is especially important for women who have a C-section or test positive for GBS.
For the baby
The microbes a baby is exposed to during pregnancy and birth help shape their developing immune system. A healthy maternal microbiome supports beneficial microbial transfer during vaginal birth. Strains such as Lactobacillus rhamnosus HN001 and Bifidobacterium lactis BB12 have been shown to encourage healthy immune development in infants when taken during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
Reduced risk of allergic and atopic conditions: Strains such as Lactobacillus rhamnosus HN001 and Bifidobacterium lactis BB12 have been linked to a reduced incidence of atopic conditions such as eczema in infants when taken during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
Studies indicate that Bifidobacterium lactis BB12 may reduce the incidence of respiratory tract infections in infants up to 8 months of age. When combined with Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG, the two strains have shown even more consistent benefits in lowering respiratory infection risk and related symptoms.
Naturopath Recommended Products
Activated Probiotics Biome Perinatal Probiotic contains Lactobacillus rhamnosus HN001 and Bifidobacterium lactis BB12, both well studied for reducing the risk of eczema in infants, supporting healthy immune development, and promoting maternal microbiome balance during pregnancy.
Orthoplex Multigen Biotic contains 9 different probiotic strains including Lactobacillus rhamnosus HN001 to reduce risk of infantile eczema & asthma. It also contains probiotic strains to support a healthy vaginal microbiome.
Metagenics Ultra Flora Mother & Baby contains Bifidobacterium lactis and Lactobacillus rhamnosus to reduce risking risk of infantile eczema and asthma when taken during pregnancy.
Qiara Pregnancy and Breastfeeding contains Lactobacillus fermentum CECT5716, a strain naturally found in breast milk. This probiotic improves immune system health, helps restore beneficial bacteria after antibiotic use, maintains healthy digestion, and may help reduce the risk and occurrence of mild mastitis.
Naturopathic Considerations
Probiotics can be highly beneficial during pregnancy and breastfeeding, helping to create the healthiest possible environment for you and your baby. A naturopath can guide you in choosing a probiotic with targeted strains based on your health history, current symptoms and goals. For example, if you have a history of Group B Strep, recurrent thrush, digestive discomfort or eczema in the family, we can select strains that research shows are most beneficial for those concerns. The quality of your probiotic is just as important as the strain. Probiotics contain live organisms that can lose their effectiveness if not stored or manufactured properly. Choosing brands with clinically studied strains, guaranteed potency, and packaging that keeps them shelf stable ensures you receive their full benefits. Additionally, combining probiotics with a diet rich in prebiotic foods such as garlic, onions, asparagus, apples, bananas, and legumes will feed beneficial bacteria and help them thrive. Supporting your microbiome during pregnancy can positively influence many body systems, reduce the risk of certain maternal and foetal conditions, and give your baby the best start to life.