To choose the best acidophilus suppositories, you should determine what you need them for and find an option designed for that purpose. There are various strains of acidophilus bacteria, and you may find that different ones are best suited for different uses. You should also choose the type which comes with as many live cultures as possible to ensure that you have a concentrated dose.
Most acidophilus suppositories are made to prevent or reduce vaginal yeast infections or conditions like bacterial vaginosis. While this is true, they may not all contain the strain of bacteria closest to that which is naturally found in the vagina. Any option could be beneficial, but you will likely get the best results from options which state that their cultures are biologically the same or very similar to those found naturally in the vaginal tract.
Ideally, you will also be able to find acidophilus suppositories with a high bacterial count. In theory, the higher the number of bacteria, the more effective the treatment will be. Higher numbers may also help to alleviate symptoms faster.
Occasionally a vaginal suppository may also help with digestive issues. Bacteria found in the vagina can migrate to the anal opening and vice versa. Sometimes, oral probiotics can be taken so that the bacteria moves through the digestive tract, out the anus, and eventually over into the vagina. The opposite may also be true, and probiotics taken in the vagina may cause effects in the colon. This is not always the case, as not all probiotics are designed to withstand the process of digestion.
You should also be sure that the acidophilus suppositories you choose are designed for what you need in terms of whether they treat or prevent a condition. Some aim to prevent yeast and other vaginal infections and others may even treat them. Most medical establishments do not support claims that probiotics treat certain conditions, but there are many studies which show that they do. In any event, there is usually no harm in trying this method, as probiotics do not normally cause any side effects.
Most probiotics in suppository form are designed for vaginal use. Those intended for digestion are usually taken orally, although it may be safe to use a suppository anally if supervised by your doctor. If you believe you have an infection, it is a good idea to see your doctor for a firm diagnosis, since yeast infection symptoms can mimic other, more serious, conditions.
