Can Probiotics Help Prevent Cervical Cancer? Here’s What Gynaecologist Says!

Cervical cancer is one of the leading health risks for women worldwide, primarily caused by persistent high-risk human papillomavirus (HPV) infections. While HPV vaccines and regular screenings are the most important preventive measures you must take. Recent studies are showing that the vaginal microbiome, or the mixture of bacteria and microorganisms within the vaginal tissue, may have a key role in avoiding the development of cervical cancer. Probiotics were known to maintain the balance of gut bacteria, and recently it is being researched whether they could even be beneficial for a healthy vaginal microbiome to avoid cervical cancer.

We got Dr Aruna Kalra, Director of Obstetrics and Gynaecology at CK Birla Hospital in Gurugram, who explained how effective probiotics are in preventing cervical cancer.

Why Does the Vaginal Microbiome Matter?

The vagina hosts a delicate balance of bacteria, predominantly Lactobacillus, which helps maintain an acidic pH (below 4.5). This acidity plays a major role in preventing infections, including HPV.

However, this balance can be disturbed by stress, antibiotics, excessive vaginal washes, poor diet, and a weakened immune system, leading to an overgrowth of harmful bacteria. “When the vaginal microbiome is imbalanced, it creates an environment where HPV can thrive, increasing the risk of persistent infection and cervical cancer,” explains Dr Kalra.

According to research published in Infectious Agents and Cancer, women with a disrupted vaginal microbiome (dysbiosis) have a higher risk of developing cervical cancer than those with a healthy balance of Lactobacillus. This is where probiotics may help.

How Can Probiotics Lower the Risk of Cervical Cancer?

Probiotics are good bacteria that support a healthy microbiome. While research is still evolving, Dr Kalra explains how probiotics might play a role in cervical cancer prevention:

1. Restoring Vaginal Flora Balance

Probiotics help increase Lactobacillus levels, which maintain vaginal acidity and prevent harmful bacteria from taking over. “Studies have shown that oral and vaginal probiotics containing Lactobacillus strains can help restore vaginal pH and improve vaginal health. This helps in creating an environment that does not allow HPV to persist,” she said.

2. Preventing HPV from Becoming Persistent

Once HPV enters the body, probiotics may help clear the infection faster by maintaining the vaginal pH and preventing HPV from integrating into cervical cells.

“A more alkaline vaginal environment favours the survival of HPV, increasing the risk of cervical dysplasia (precancerous changes). Probiotics help maintain an acidic vaginal pH, making it harder for HPV to thrive,” Dr Kalra said.

3. Reducing the Risk of Bacterial Vaginosis (BV)Bacterial Vaginosis (BV) is a common infection that disrupts vaginal bacteria, increasing susceptibility to HPV infections. Probiotics support the growth of good bacteria, which helps prevent BV-related HPV risks.

Dr Kalra shares that, “Women with BV are at a higher risk of persistent HPV infection. Probiotics can reduce the chances of developing BV, indirectly lowering HPV risks.”

4. Strengthening the Immune System

A strong immune response is essential to fighting HPV infections. Probiotics support immune function by regulating inflammation and improving gut health, which is linked to overall immunity.

“A healthy gut microbiome boosts immunity, and since 70 per cent of our immune system resides in the gut, probiotics can support the body’s natural ability to clear HPV infections faster,” she said.

5. Supporting HPV ClearanceEmerging research suggests that probiotics may help the body eliminate HPV faster, reducing its chances of causing long-term damage.

“Some clinical trials indicate that probiotics can accelerate HPV clearance. This means probiotics may be a useful adjunct therapy, but they should not replace regular cervical screenings,” Dr Kalra explains.

Should You Start Taking Probiotics for Cervical Cancer Prevention?While probiotics sound promising and safe, it is important to remember that they are not a substitute for HPV vaccines or Pap smears. Instead, they can be a supportive strategy for maintaining vaginal health.

- Oral probiotics: Available as supplements or in foods like yogurt, kefir, and kimchi

- Vaginal probiotics: Available in suppositories designed for vaginal health

However, not all probiotics work the same way, so it is best to consult your gynaecologist before choosing a probiotic supplement. While more studies are needed, maintaining a healthy vaginal microbiome through diet, lifestyle, and possibly probiotics could be an important preventive measure.

Dr Kalra explains, “Probiotics can be a great add-on for vaginal health, but regular cervical screening and HPV vaccination remain the most effective ways to prevent cervical cancer.”

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