By clicking on the product links in this article, we may receive a commission fee at no cost to you, the reader. Sponsorships and affiliate commissions help support our research so we can help you find the best products. Read the full affiliate disclosure here.
When making overall well-being a priority, women put a lot of thought and research into how to improve their health. You make sure to eat right, stay active, and manage stress as best you can. But what about your gut health? Your gut microbiome is made up of microorganisms that live in your large intestine, and probiotics are the "friendly bacteria" that have health benefits. Probiotics may be something you haven't considered yet, but probiotics for women offer some amazing benefits to support your digestive, immune, and vaginal health.
There are plenty of foods and drinks that are rich in probiotics, but if you have dietary restrictions or aren't fond of fermented foods, you can opt for supplements. The market for probiotics is growing increasingly popular, and it may seem daunting to find the right one for you. Therefore, the ACTIVE Reviews team has compiled a list of the best probiotics for women.
The Best Probiotic for Women - Our Top Picks
- Best Overall Probiotic for Women: Ritual Synbiotic+
- Best Probiotic for Women with IBS: Transparent Labs Advanced Gut Health Formula
- Best Probiotic for Women over 50: Ritual Women 50+ Multivitamin Synbiotic+
- Best Probiotic for Women's Immune Health: Orgain Organic Superfoods Powder
- Best Probiotic for Women's Vaginal Health: Ultraflora Women's
- Best Probiotic for Women's Weight Loss: Kaged Pro-Biotic
- Best Prebiotic and Probiotic for Women: Onnit Total Gut Health
- Best Probiotic Gummies for Women: Rainbow Light Probiolicious
- Best Vegan Probiotic for Women: Naked Nutrition Gut Health Formula
- Best Probiotic Powder for Women: Kylea Total Living Berry Drink
Why Trust Us?
The health and safety of ACTIVE's readers is of the utmost importance to us. To ensure your well-being when consuming dietary supplements, the ACTIVE.com editorial team prioritizes products that are independently tested by a third party. We've consulted with a team of nutritionists and dieticians to ensure the products we feature are of the highest standard. This helps us create the most accurate, authentic review content for our readers.
Best Overall Probiotic for Women - Ritual Synbiotic+
SPECS
- Price (rating scale below): $$
- Flavor options (rating scale below): 1
- Type: Capsule
- Dosage: Take 1 capsule daily
- Certifications: Vegan, gluten and major allergen-free, made with traceable ingredients, non-GMO, third-party tested
Ritual Synbiotic+ is an all-in-one prebiotic, probiotic, and postbiotic supplement:
- Prebiotic: Targets undesirable bacteria in the gut
- Probiotic: Provides live microorganisms—the friendly bacteria— that contribute to a healthy gut
- Postbiotic: Fuels the gut lining and supports gut barrier function
The mint-flavored, delayed-release capsule ensures that probiotics reach the colon, where 70-80% of your immune system lives. Ritual Synbiotic+ provides 11 billion CFUs (colony-forming units), supplying digestive support and minimizing digestive problems such as cramping, bloating, or diarrhea.
When you sign up for a monthly subscription, Ritual offers free shipping and money-back guarantees if you are unhappy with the product. Delivery dates are flexible, and you can cancel subscriptions at any time.
What We Like
- Has a combination of prebiotics, probiotics, and postbiotics
- Delayed-release capsule ensures probiotics reach the colon
- No refrigeration required
What We Don't Like
- Ritual's Synbiotic+ is only available with a subscription
- Mint flavor is not appealing to everyone
Best Probiotic for Women with IBS -Transparent Labs Advanced Gut Health Formula
SPECS
- Price (rating scale below): $$
- Flavor options (rating scale below): N/A
- Type: Capsule
- Dosage: Take 2 capsules daily
- Certifications: Traceability, informed sport, third-party tested, Non-GMO
Did you know that women are twice as likely to develop IBS? Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a common disorder that affects the stomach and intestines and causes cramping, abdominal pain, bloating, gas, and diarrhea. In an attempt to control IBS symptoms, you can manage your diet and stress and improve your lifestyle. If you struggle with severe IBS symptoms, Transparent Labs (TL) Gut Health Series Probiotic could help control or, fingers crossed, alleviate your symptoms.
Transparent Labs (TL) Gut Health Series Probiotic is a comprehensive and robust supplement with an ultra-potent 100 billion CFUs per serving. The TL Gut Health Series Probiotic includes ten evidence-based strains of probiotics. In addition to supporting digestion and the immune system, TL Gut Health Series Probiotics also promote cognitive function, encourage healthy body composition, and restore beneficial gut bacteria after antibiotic treatment.
What We Like
- Has 10 different evidence-based types of probiotics
- Can stack with Transparent Lab Prebiotic Greens to optimize benefits
- Cites clinical research to support the benefits
What We Don't Like
- Does not contain prebiotics
- May be overwhelming for some due to the amount and variety of probiotics
BUY: Transparent Labs Advanced Gut Health Formula
Best Probiotic for Women Over 50 - Ritual Women 50+ Multivitamin Synbiotic+
SPECS
- Price (rating scale below): $$
- Flavor Options (rating scale below): 1
- Type: Capsule
- Dosage: Multivitamin 2 capsules daily, Synbiotic+ 1 capsule daily
- Certifications: Traceable ingredients, non-GMO, third-party tested, vegan, no artificial colorants
Ritual Essential for Women 50+ provides Vitamins D3, E, K, Folate, Vitamin B12, Magnesium, Boron, and Omega 3 DHA, and supports normal immune function, heart health, bone support, and muscle function.
There are two differences from the Ritual Essential for Women 18+. There continues to be ongoing research to determine the appropriate amount of calcium supplementation for this particular age group. Therefore, instead of including calcium in the multivitamin, Ritual contains "helper nutrients," Vitamin D3, Vitamin K2, Magnesium, and Boron, to support bone health. These "helper nutrients" help absorb calcium. Another key difference is that there is no iron in the vitamin. The recommendation of daily allowance for iron is 8 milligrams daily, which you can likely achieve through diet alone.
When you bundle the Essential for Women 50+ with Ritual Synbiotic, you receive the same Synbiotic + as discussed above. The mint-flavored, delayed-release capsule provides 11 billion CFUs to help digestion and immunity. When you sign up for a monthly subscription, Ritual offers free shipping and money-back guarantees if you are unhappy with the product. Delivery dates are flexible, and you can cancel subscriptions at any time.
What We Like
- Includes Omega-3 DHA for heart and brain health
- Contains "helper nutrients" for calcium absorption and to support bone health
- Delayed-release capsule to ensure probiotics reach the colon
What We Don't Like
- Ritual's Women 50+ Multivitamin and Synbiotic+ is only available with a subscription
- Minimal nutrients and trace minerals
BUY: Ritual Women 50+ Multivitamin Synbiotic+
Best Probiotic for Women's Immune Health - Orgain Organic Superfoods Powder
SPECS
- Price (rating scale below): $$
- Flavor options (rating scale below): 1
- Type: Powder
- Dosage: Take 1 scoop daily
- Certifications: Plant-based, USDA organic
Do you always pack your diet with nutrients? The Organic Superfoods Powder has 50 organic superfoods and one billion probiotics per serving, making it as convenient for you as possible. Simply stir some into breakfast drinks or sprinkle over oatmeal. This blend also provides phytonutrients that are antioxidants. Derived from cleaner ingredients, Organic Superfoods Powder includes organic anxiety grains, berries and fruit, greens and grasses, veggies and herbs, and sprouts.
Superfoods provide super nutrition. With Organic Superfood Powder, you are fueling your entire body and flushing out toxins.
What We Like
- One billion probiotics
- 50 superfoods
- USDA organic
What We Don't Like
- Only comes in powder form
- Not third-party tested
BUY: Orgain Organic Superfoods Powder
Best Probiotic for Women's Vaginal Health - Ultraflora Women’s
SPECS
- Price (rating scale below): $$ (In 2021, a market analysis found UltraFlora Women’s cost about 35% less on average compared to over-the-counter women’s health probiotic options)
- Flavor options (rating scale below): N/A
- Type: Capsule
- Dosage: Take 1 capsule daily
- Certifications: non-GMO, gluten-free, and vegetarian
UltraFlora Women’s is a probiotic solely impacting feminine health. Feminine health includes the vagina which is responsible for producing a healthy bacteria called lactobacilli baceteria.Ultraflora Women’s includes two probiotic strains, Lactobacillus rhamnosus GR-1 and Lactobacillus reuteri RC-14. Ultraflora also contains a 50:50 Blend of Lactobacillus rhamnosus GR-1 and Lactobacillus reuteri RC-14, two billion CFU. After taking the probiotic, the two strains bypass the gut and release into the vagina.
What We Like
- The two probiotic strains in the product, Lactobacillus rhamnosus GR-1 and Lactobacillus reuteri RC-14, have been considered safe and clinically effective and trusted for use by practitioners for 7 years.
- The research behind Metagenics through their program, TruQuality as well as clinical trials.
- Option to buy once, or a subscription
- 86% of women would refer their friend to the product
- Doesn’t need refrigeration, but does need a cool, dry place.
What We Don't Like
- That it only supports feminine health, which means you would have to buy subsequent products for other types of probiotics
- Not third-party tested, however, extensive research in the development of this product
Best Probiotic for Women's Weight Loss - Kaged Pro-Biotic
SPECS
- Price (rating scale below): $
- Flavor options (rating scale below): N/A
- Type: Capsule
- Dosage: Take 1 capsule with breakfast, lunch, and dinner
- Certifications: Non-GMO, Gluten-Free, Carbon neutral product, third-party tested
Athletes are drawn to probiotics—not only for their health benefits but also their performance. As a performance probiotic, Kaged Pro-Biotic can help improve overall gut health, build endurance, enhance performance, and reduce fatigue. Pro-Biotic is a powerful probiotic focusing on the gut microbiome to enhance athletic performance.
Pro-Biotic contains L. Plantarum, also called TWK10, a probiotic naturally fermented from Taiwanese Kimchi. TWK10 is the ingredient that can transform your gut into a high-performance engine. Pro-Biotic uses targeted-release capsules to ensure the ingredients are released in the intestines. After absorbing Pro-Biotic in the gut, research reports that muscle energy production increases via the gut-muscle axis. The gut-muscle axis is a series of pathways connecting the gut with skeletal muscle. With greater ATP concentration, athletes can do more reps, need less rest, and train for longer runs.
What We Like
- Patented ingredients: TWK10
- Potential for improved athletic performance
- Third-party tested
What We Don't Like
- Needs to be taken 3x daily
Best Prebiotic and Probiotic for Women - Onnit Total Gut Health
SPECS
- Price (rating scale below): $$$
- Flavor options (rating scale below): N/A
- Type: Capsule
- Dosage: Take 1 packet (7 capsules) daily
- Certifications: Dairy-free, soy-free, gluten-free
This digestive game-changer has the ingredients to help break down the foods we eat, feed the good bacteria we already have, and balance the bacteria we don't need. The Total Gut Health Packet comes with a complete spectrum package. First, they introduce DIGEsTECH, an enzyme supplement that helps digest fats, lactose, carbs, protein, and fiber. Next are two organic prebiotic capsules: Jerusalem artichoke and dandelion root. Prebiotics aid in balancing and preserving the "good bacteria" that already exist. The supplement includes five strains of probiotics in one capsule. Betaine Hydrochloride (HCl) is a natural chemical that helps stomach acids break down food. Lastly, Saccharomyces Boulardii is a yeast that acts similarly to probiotics, aiding with regular elimination. There are a total of seven capsules in each package.
What We Like
- Patented ingredient DIGEsTECG is a full-spectrum enzyme supplement to help keep your gut healthy
- Prebiotics help with a positive balance in the gut
- Assists with the digestion of primary macronutrients
What We Don't Like
- Total of seven capsules in one packet
- More expensive
BUY: Onnit Total Gut Health Supplement with Probiotics
Best Probiotic Gummies for Women - Rainbow Probiolicious™ Probiotic Gummies
SPECS
- Price (rating scale below): $
- Flavor options (rating scale below): 1
- Type: Gummies
- Dosage: Take 2 gummies daily
- Certifications: Milk and dairy-free, gluten-free
Probiolicious makes it easy to support a healthy digestive and immune system by featuring unique, shelf-stable probiotics backed by 80 years of scientific research. Probiolicious contains inulin and fructooligosaccharides (FOS) to deliver prebiotics that promote the growth of healthy bacteria in your intestinal system to aid in normal digestion.
In each serving of Probiolicious, one billion CFU Bioactive Probiotic Defense promotes digestive, colon, and immunity health. Probiolicious gummies support the digestion of lactose in dairy products. If you are more likely to keep up with taking gummies, we found that Probiolicious is the best probiotic gummies for women.
What We Like
- Berry flavor
- Contains inulin and FOS to deliver prebiotics to promote the growth of healthy bacteria
- Gummies are safe for children ages 4-12
What We Don't Like
- Must ensure that children do not take more than the recommended dose
- Not as potent as other supplements (no delayed release)
BUY: Probiolicious™ Probiotic Gummies
Best Vegan Probiotic for Women - Naked Nutrition Gut Health Formula
SPECS
- Price (rating scale): $$
- Flavor Options (rating scale): N/A
- Type: Powder
- Dosage: 1 scoop
- Certifications: Gluten-free
So, you already eat clean? After investing all that time and effort to maintain a healthy diet, you want your body to get the most out of all the natural food you are eating. Naked Gut is a supplement that contains seven natural ingredients which work together to support gut function. These ingredients include prebiotic fibers, probiotics, glutamine, and inulin. Naked Gut helps to maximize nutrient absorption, reduce digestive discomfort, and support a healthy gut microbiome. By taking Naked Gut, you can benefit more from the healthy foods you eat and reduce stomach issues like bloating, constipation, and inflammation.
What We Like
- Vegan and allergen-free
- Only seven all-natural ingredients
- Provides prebiotics, probiotics, and glutamine
What We Don't Like
- Flavorless
- Powder form can be less convenient to take
BUY: Naked Nutrition Gut Health
Best Probiotic Powder for Women - Kylea Total Living Drink Berry
SPECS
- Price (rating scale below): $$$
- Flavor options (rating scale below): 1
- Type: Powder
- Dosage: 1 scoop daily
- Certifications: Organic
Women commonly ask these two questions about nutrition: "What should I eat?" and "What supplements should I be taking?" Total Living Drink Berry is a nine-products-in-one superfood formula. With 9 grams of protein and seven servings of fruits and vegetables, you can easily fill any nutritional gaps in your diet or ensure that you fulfill the recommended nutrients daily. With one scoop of Total Living Drink Berry, you will get nine essential nutrients: protein, digestive enzymes, antioxidants, amino acids, herbs, probiotics, vitamins, minerals, and organic fruits.
In addition to supporting your digestive system and boosting your immune system, the benefits of Total Living Drink Berry include regulating blood sugar levels, providing energy without overstimulating your adrenal system, and rejuvenating your skin.
What We Like
- Made of only whole foods
- Includes vitamins and minerals that support women's health
- Provides prebiotics, probiotics, and glutamine
- Vegan protein sources
What We Don't Like
- Not third-party tested
- Expensive
BUY: Kylea Total Living Berry Drink
What Women Need to Look for in a Probiotic
The best probiotic to take depends on your specific needs and goals. Some women want to focus on improving vaginal health or supporting pH balance. Others prefer a probiotic with particular strains that can promote digestive health or boost immunity. It might even come down to whether you'd rather take a pill or mix it into your breakfast smoothie. Talk to your doctor for more information or recommendations that might help you the most.
Similar to food labels, reading the labels on probiotic supplements is imperative. The labels will have the probiotic's genus, species, and strain. There are many probiotics, each with unique benefits that can help you achieve your goals.
Type
Most probiotics come in capsules, ensuring that live bacteria make it to the gut. Probiotics can also come as a gummy, in liquid form, or in a powder form that can be mixed into drinks. Knowing your preference for the probiotic form makes a big difference and can be the factor that decides whether you do or do not make it part of your health regimen.
Dosage
Labels will recommend how much you need to take of each probiotic and how often. Most probiotics are taken once daily, but it is essential to note the serving size, the amount per day, and specific instructions. For example, there may be instructions to take probiotics with or without food.
Certifications
There is currently no regulation of probiotics, meaning quality and purity testing are not required. Additionally, they can't legally advertise that it will treat or cure any disease because the FDA doesn't allow this type of advertising. You could look out for reputable brands who say that a third party reviewed their ingredients list. There are also certifications stating whether these supplements have been manufactured using Current Good Manufacturing Practices (cGMP), and vegan-friendly/vegetarian options are also available.
How We Rate Supplements
Price/affordability (scale of $-$$$)
Prices depend on a number of factors, and tend to fluctuate over time, so we've kept our affordability rating scale simple so you can easily see how products compare:
$ = under $1 per serving
$$ = $1-2 per serving
$$$ = over $2 per serving
Flavor Options (scale of 1-3)
When it comes to dietary supplements that you take frequently, or even daily, options are important. And while your protein powder or pre-workout doesn't have to taste good to be effective, having several flavors to choose from can make it easier to stick with your fitness and health goals.
N/A = Unflavored
1 = 1-2 flavor options
2 = 3-4 flavor options
3 = 5 or more flavor options
FAQs About Probiotics for Women
What are probiotics good for?
Probiotics are beneficial for women because they help maintain a healthy balance of bacteria in the gut, which can improve digestion and overall health. Probiotics also help support the immune system, which is vital for staying healthy during stress or illness. Probiotics are also beneficial for vaginal health, helping to maintain a healthy flora balance and preventing infection.
Should probiotics be taken in the morning or at night?
There is no right or wrong answer, as everyone's body will react differently to probiotics. Some people find that taking them in the morning works best for them, while others prefer to take them at night. Ultimately, it is up to the individual to experiment and see what time of day works best for them.
How can I tell if probiotics are working?
One way to determine if probiotics work for you is to keep track of any symptoms. If you notice that your symptoms improve after taking probiotics, this is a sign that they are working. Additionally, you can ask your doctor to do a stool test to check the levels of probiotics in your gut.
Do probiotics help you lose weight?
There is some evidence that probiotics can help you lose weight. One study showed that people who took a probiotic supplement lost more weight and body fat than those who didn't.
These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
Discuss This Article