What Vitamins Are Good for Vaginal Health?

If you've dealt with ongoing vaginal discomfort, chronic bacterial vaginosis (BV) or yeast infections for long enough, you'll do just about anything to get rid of the problem for good. You may have wondered whether supplements could help restore vaginal balance. 

From probiotics to vitamins, the supplement aisle is full of options claiming to support vaginal health, but which ones are actually backed by science? How do you know what vitamins promote vaginal health? Which ones may be a waste of money, and, in the worst-case scenario, which ones may do more harm than good? Below, we break down the most promising vitamins for vaginal and urinary health, along with other supplements like hyaluronic acid, probiotics, and more.

Why use vitamins and supplements to support vaginal health

Your vaginal health is influenced by more than just what’s happening locally — it's part of a complex, interconnected system involving your immune function, hormone levels, gut health, and overall inflammation. Vitamins and supplements may support vaginal health in several ways: by helping maintain a protective pH, supporting healthy tissue, and promoting the growth of beneficial bacteria in the microbiome.

While supplements aren’t necessary for everyone, they can be helpful during times of change- such as after antibiotics, during hormonal shifts like menopause, or when dealing with recurrent infections.It’s all about finding what works best for your body. As always, talk to your healthcare provider before beginning a new supplement regimen.

Types of vaginal supplements 

• Probiotics: Probiotics are supplements that contain live microorganisms that confer a health benefit. You can take probiotics via dietary supplements, in food (especially fermented foods), or a vaginal suppository. The goal behind taking probiotics for vaginal health is to help populate the vagina with beneficial bacteria, especially if you are low in healthy bacteria. 
• Prebiotics: Prebiotics aren't bacterial strains but serve directly as a food source for good bacteria or help stimulate an environment for bacteria to flourish. They're naturally found in certain foods rich in fibre.
• Vitamins: This includes vitamins that are specifically marketed to support vaginal health.

The Most Researched Vitamins and Supplements for Vaginal Health

When it comes to choosing the right supplements, it helps to understand which ingredients are supported by research and how they actually work. Below are some of the most studied and promising options for supporting vaginal health.

Probiotics

Probiotics have become a staple in the wellness world—and for good reason. While they’ve long been used to support gut health, research now shows they can also play a meaningful role in maintaining a balanced vaginal microbiome.

Clinical studies, including multiple randomized controlled trials and meta-analyses have found that both oral and vaginal probiotics (particularly those containing vaginal-native Lactobacillus strains) can help increase protective bacteria, reduce harmful microbes, and lower Nugent scores (a common clinical marker for BV and vaginal dysbiosis). These benefits are especially promising for people who experience recurrent BV or are recovering from antibiotic treatment.

Some studies have even found that probiotics may be as effective as antibiotics like metronidazole for managing asymptomatic BV, but with fewer side effects and lower rates of recurrence. That’s likely because probiotics help restore the acidic environment of the vagina, produce antimicrobial compounds like bacteriocins, and prevent harmful bacteria from sticking around in the first place.

And while vaginal probiotics can deliver more targeted support, oral probiotics–when taken consistently and at effective doses–have also been shown to positively influence the vaginal microbiome over time. Evvy Women’s Complete Probiotic was developed with these insights in mind. It contains clinically-studied, vaginal-native strains shown to support gut, urinary, and vaginal health, all in one daily capsule.

The takeaway: Probiotics aren’t a one-size-fits-all solution, but they can be a powerful tool for supporting vaginal health—especially during recovery from antibiotics or if you experience frequent imbalances. As always, talk to your healthcare provider to find the right approach for your needs.

Vitamin C

Best known for its immune-boosting properties, vitamin C (specifically in the form of ascorbic acid) has also been studied for its potential benefits in vaginal health. When used as a vaginal suppository, vitamin C may help support a healthy vaginal pH and promote the growth of beneficial bacteria.

Several clinical studies have shown that vitamin C can help restore balance to the vaginal microbiome, particularly in cases of non-specific vaginitis or mild dysbiosis. In one study, more than half of participants using vaginal vitamin C achieved a more protective and optimized vaginal microbiome, compared to just a quarter in the placebo group.

However, vitamin C isn’t right for everyone. Some individuals reported mild irritation or itching, which led them to stop treatment. As with any intervention, it’s important to talk to your healthcare provider before trying it—especially since it’s not a replacement for antibiotic treatment when one is clinically indicated.

The takeaway: Overall, vitamin C may offer real benefits for certain vaginal concerns, especially for women looking for gentle, non-antibiotic options. 

Vitamin E 

Vitamin E is a powerful antioxidant with anti-inflammatory properties. It helps protect cells from oxidative stress, supports tissue repair, and may help improve symptoms of vaginal dryness, especially in postmenopausal women. While most of the research has looked at vitamin E in suppository form, its benefits for tissue health and cellular integrity make it a valuable nutrient for vaginal and urinary support more broadly. Postmenopausal women using vitamin E suppositories for vaginal dryness and discomfort didn’t report any significant issues — even when vitamin E was combined with other ingredients like hyaluronic acid.

Vitamin E suppositories and side 

Here’s what we know to date:

• A 2016 study looked at postmenopausal women experiencing vaginal dryness. Half of the women were given vitamin E suppositories, and half were given estrogen vaginal cream (which has been shown to improve symptoms of vaginal atrophy) for 10 weeks. Notably, four of the study participants had to stop using vitamin E due to unwanted side effects like burning and increased vaginal discharge. 
• The 22 women who did complete the vitamin E treatment found roughly the same relief as the estrogen users, which indicates there is some potential for vitamin E as a non-hormonal option for dryness. 

The takeaway: Both oral and vaginal forms of vitamin E may support vaginal health—especially when it comes to tissue repair, moisture retention, and reducing inflammation. While most studies focus on suppositories, oral vitamin E offers systemic antioxidant benefits that can complement overall vaginal and urinary tract wellness. As with any supplement, it’s best to consult your healthcare provider to determine what’s right for you.

Vitamin D

Vitamin D isn’t just important for your bones — it also plays a meaningful role in supporting vaginal health, especially for people with low vitamin D levels or those going through menopause. Research shows that vitamin D can help improve signs of vaginal atrophy, like dryness, discomfort, high pH levels, and changes to the vaginal lining. These effects are often most noticeable when vitamin D is taken in higher doses or used as a vaginal suppository.

Some studies have shown that women with breast cancer on tamoxifen who used vaginal vitamin D saw real improvements in their symptoms, including better vaginal tissue health and a more balanced pH. That’s likely because vitamin D helps the cells in your vaginal lining grow and repair themselves, strengthens the natural barrier that protects against infections, and boosts overall tissue health. We also know that vitamin D receptors are present in vaginal tissue, which means your body is built to respond to it locally.

Low vitamin D levels have been linked to an increased risk of BV. Some studies suggest that people with low vitamin D are more likely to experience persistent or recurrent BV, and supplementation may help reduce this risk. Another trial showed that women with low vitamin D who took 2000 IU daily had better success clearing asymptomatic BV. That said, not all studies show the same effect, and the benefits seem to be most noticeable in people who start off with low levels of vitamin D.

Some studies have also suggested that vitamin D (and vitamin E) might help ease menstrual pain in people with primary dysmenorrhea (menstrual cramps that aren't due to another medical condition), so there may be even more reasons to keep your levels in check.

The takeaway: If you’re postmenopausal, experiencing vaginal discomfort, or know you’re low in vitamin D, it could be worth discussing with your healthcare provider. 

Why did we include Vitamin D3 and E in Evvy Women’s Complete Probiotic?

Evvy Women’s Complete Probiotic is an oral supplement that provides advanced 3-in-1 microbiome support for gut, urinary, & vaginal health together. We included Vitamin D3 and Vitamin E to provide targeted support for overall wellness, with specific benefits for immune function and tissue health. Vitamin D is widely recognized for its role in regulating immune function and supporting urinary tract health. Some studies have explored the link between low vitamin D levels and persistent vaginal dysbiosis. Emerging research also suggests that vitamin D may help support vaginal tissue health, particularly in postmenopausal people. Vitamin E is well known for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, helping to protect cells from oxidative stress and support the body’s natural inflammatory response.These vitamins work synergistically with our clinically studied probiotic and postbiotic strains to help maintain balance across the interconnected systems that influence how you feel every day. 

Hyaluronic acid 

You may know hyaluronic acid as a go-to ingredient for skincare—but it’s also gaining recognition as a helpful option for vaginal dryness. Research suggests that when applied directly to the vagina, hyaluronic acid can help hydrate tissues, improve comfort, and even serve as a non-hormonal alternative to estrogen therapy.

Here’s what we know from the research: 

• A systematic review of nine clinical studies found that hyaluronic acid significantly improved symptoms of vaginal dryness, itching, burning, and discomfort during sex in postmenopausal women. 
• Notably, it also showed benefits for individuals undergoing cancer treatment who cannot use estrogen-based therapies.
• Unlike estrogen, which works by influencing hormone receptors, hyaluronic acid supports vaginal health by drawing moisture into the tissue and promoting repair of the vaginal lining. This makes it an effective and gentle option for those seeking hormone-free support.

P.S.While it’s tempting to repurpose your favorite facial serum, only use products specifically formulated for vaginal use. Evvy’s Hyaluronic Acid Suppositories are designed with this in mind—combining medical-grade hyaluronic acid and soothing ingredients to support hydration and comfort during times of dryness or irritation.

The takeaway: Clinical research supports that hyaluronic acid, when applied vaginally, can help relieve dryness and irritation—especially in those seeking a non-hormonal alternative to estrogen.

Sea buckthorn oil 

Sea buckthorn oil is another ingredient commonly used in facial skincare products,but it’s also available as an oral supplement and has been explored for its potential benefits in vaginal health—particularly for symptoms like dryness and thinning of the vaginal lining (also known as vaginal atrophy).

Here’s what we know about the effectiveness of sea buckthorn oil on vaginal atrophy when consumed orally: 

One 2014 study followed 98 postmenopausal women who took either 3 grams of oral sea buckthorn oil or a placebo daily for three months. While some participants reported symptom improvement, the overall results were inconclusive, and researchers noted that more robust evidence is needed to determine its true efficacy.

Sea buckthorn oil has also been tested in topical vaginal formulations. A 2019 study evaluated a vaginal cream containing both sea buckthorn oil and hyaluronic acid. Women who used the cream experienced a decrease in vaginal pH compared to those in the control group. However, because of the small sample size and the presence of hyaluronic acid (a known active ingredient), it’s difficult to determine which component was responsible for the observed effects.

The takeaway: Current research on sea buckthorn oil for vaginal health is limited and mixed, particularly when taken orally. While it’s not known to be harmful, there isn’t enough evidence to confidently recommend it for vaginal symptoms. If it works for you and has been cleared by your healthcare provider, it’s likely safe to continue—but more research is needed to confirm its benefits.

Omega-3 and fish oil 

Omega-3 fatty acids are often praised for their heart, brain, and skin benefits—but they’ve also been explored for their potential role in supporting vaginal health. It’s important to note that not all omega-3 supplements are the same. Formulations vary in their concentration of EPA and DHA (the primary active fatty acids), and fish oil is just one type of omega-3 supplement.

One proposed benefit is that omega-3s may help support estrogen levels. Estrogen plays a critical role in maintaining vaginal health by stimulating the production of glycogen, which nourishes protective Lactobacillus bacteria and helps keep the vaginal environment acidic. When it comes to your vaginal health, estrogen is kind of like Goldilocks – too little estrogen can increase the risk of BV, while too much may predispose some people to yeast infections. 

However, the research on omega-3s and estrogen is still early and mixed. Here’s what we know from the research:

• A 2018 study found that the women who took fish oil supplements had increased levels of estrogen in their blood, compared to a placebo group, after eight weeks. 
• A second study published in 2020 followed 100 pregnant women who took daily omega-3 supplements and found that blood estrogen levels increased from baseline to 12 weeks of taking the supplement. Still, the same was true for the placebo group, likely due to pregnancy itself.
• Another study looked at how fish oil affected the vaginal microbiome in pregnant women. While fish oil didn’t appear to alter the dominant bacterial communities, it did reduce the presence of some low-abundance organisms.There weren't any significant shifts in the overall community state types. 

Still, the overall impact on vaginal health remains unclear.

The takeaway: Omega-3 and fish oil supplements may offer some benefits for vaginal health, possibly through hormonal or anti-inflammatory pathways—but current evidence is limited and inconsistent. More research, particularly in non-pregnant populations, is needed to understand their true impact. If you’re already taking omega-3s for general health, it may offer added support—but it’s not a proven intervention for vaginal health just yet. 

Lactoferrin 

Lactoferrin is a protein naturally made by your immune system that helps inhibit the growth of harmful bacteria while promoting the growth of beneficial ones, especifically Lactobacillus. 

Emerging research has shown that when lactoferrin is taken alongside vaginal probiotics, it may enhance their effectiveness. Keep in mind that while some users report mild digestive discomfort, this is more commonly linked to probiotic blends it’s formulated with, rather than lactoferrin itself. When taken on its own, lactoferrin is generally well tolerated.

The takeaway:If you’re dealing with recurrent vaginal infections or microbiome imbalances, oral lactoferrin may help boost the effectiveness of probiotic supplements—particularly when used in combination with Lactobacillus-based strains.

Lactulose

Lactobacillus makes lactic acid by fermenting simple carbohydrates like glucose, sucrose, lactose, or galactose using glycolysis (their central metabolic pathway). 

Lactulose is a synthetic sugar (disaccharide) made of galactose and fructose, most commonly used as a laxative to treat constipation and liver disease. It isn’t absorbed in the small intestine, so it travels to the colon where it’s broken down by gut bacteria into byproducts like methane, acetic acid, and lactic acid.

Although lactulose isn’t currently used as a vaginal treatment in clinical settings, a 2018 in-vitro study found that it promoted the growth of beneficial Lactobacillus species and inhibited the growth of Candida albicans (a common yeast) and Fannyhessea vaginae (associated with BV and formally known as Atopobium vaginae). However, it had no effect on other BV-associated bacteria like Gardnerella vaginalis, Prevotella bivia, or Mobiluncus. 

The takeaway: While early lab research suggests lactulose may support vaginal Lactobacillus growth and reduce certain pathogens, there are currently no human studies evaluating its use vaginally. More research in humans is needed before we know it really works. 

Postbiotics

By now you’ve probably heard of probiotics (the good bacteria) and prebiotics (the fibers that feed them)—but postbiotics are just as important. Postbiotics are the beneficial compounds that probiotic bacteria naturally produce when they break down prebiotic fibers. These byproducts, like short-chain fatty acids, are what actually deliver many of the health benefits we associate with a balanced microbiome.

One well studied postbiotic is Tributyrin, a type of postbiotic, a highly absorbable form of butyrate. Butyrate plays a critical role in gut health—it helps strengthen the intestinal lining, reduce inflammation, support immune function, and aid in nutrient absorption. It also encourages the growth of beneficial bacteria, creating a reinforcing cycle that helps keep your gut microbiome resilient.

So why does that matter for vaginal health? The gut and vaginal microbiomes are closely linked through shared immune and metabolic pathways, as well as physical proximity. When the gut is imbalanced, it can indirectly impact the vaginal environment. By helping your gut function optimally, postbiotics like tributyrin may support a more stable, healthy vaginal microbiome too.

The takeaway: A strong gut microbiome lays the foundation for overall health—including vaginal health. Postbiotics like tributyrin help fuel this system at its source, making them a powerful ally for your whole-body microbiome.

How to look after your vaginal health

While supplements can be a valuable part of your vaginal health routine—especially when tailored to your needs—they’re not a quick fix or substitute for foundational care. The good news? There are several research-backed ways to support a healthy vaginal microbiome and lower your risk of issues like bacterial vaginosis (BV) and yeast infections:

• Practice safe sex. Unprotected sex can disrupt the vaginal microbiome and increase the risk of infections, including BV and STIs. Using condoms or dental dams can help reduce that risk and support microbiome stability.
• Get STI tested regularly. The CDC recommends getting screened for STIs at least once a year or anytime you have a new sex partner. If left untreated, STIs can cause long-term reproductive health complications. 
• Skip the douching. Despite the marketing hype, douching can disrupt your vaginal pH balance and put you at a higher risk of infections like BV, STI acquisition, and even pelvic inflammatory disease (PID). 
• Practice good menstrual hygiene. Change your pad or tampon at least every four hours or as often as needed, depending on your flow, to minimize irritation and bacterial growth.
• Stay on top of cervical screenings (pap smears). Pap tests may not be fun, but they’re critical for detecting early changes in cervical cells before they progress into something more serious.
• Test your vaginal microbiome. Evvy's Vaginal Microbiome Test gets to the bottom of what's causing your symptoms and helps you find real, effective solutions for your body. 
• Look after your overall health. Having a healthy and balanced diet, getting adequate rest, and exercising are also key. ‍
• Consider taking a science-backed probiotic. The vaginal, gut, and urinary microbiomes are deeply interconnected. Evvy Women’s Complete Probiotic delivers clinically studied probiotics, postbiotics, and targeted nutrients—like vitamins D3 and E—in one daily capsule to support microbial balance, reduce bloating, and promote whole-body health.

FAQ

What vitamins are good for pH balance?

When it comes to maintaining a healthy vaginal pH balance, there isn’t strong evidence that specific vitamins alone can do the trick. While certain studies suggest that probiotics and Vitamin C may offer some support, the research is still mixed, and more studies are needed to confirm their effectiveness. Probiotics, for example, have shown promise in supporting vaginal health, especially after antibiotics or for women dealing with recurrent BV. However, they haven’t been proven to prevent infections outright. Currently, the most effective treatments for BV are antibiotics or, in some cases, boric acid. If you're considering probiotics or Vitamin C, they may offer some benefits in certain situations, but they’re not a replacement for medical treatment. As for vitamins, Vitamin C is believed to help balance vaginal pH and may assist in managing certain infections, but again, more research is needed to fully understand its role. That said, these are not substitutes for clinical treatment, and more research is needed to confirm their effectiveness. Antibiotics (and sometimes boric acid) remain the standard treatment for BV.

What vitamins are good for a yeast infection?

Yeast infections are caused by an overgrowth of Candida, and the most effective treatments are antifungal medications. Currently, there’s no evidence that vitamins alone can treat a yeast infection.

What vitamins help with BV?

Vitamin C has been explored for its potential to help maintain an acidic vaginal pH and may play a supportive role in managing BV. However, it’s not a primary treatment. The CDC still recommends antibiotics like metronidazole or clindamycin as first-line therapies. Supplements may offer supportive benefits but should not replace clinical care. If you think you have BV, consult your healthcare provider to find the best evidence-based approach.