A lower incidence of bacterial vaginosis and urinary tract infections is linked to the presence and dominance of Lactobacillus in the vagina. The antiadhesion factors, by-products that are toxic to pathogens such hydrogen peroxide and bacteriocins, as well as possible immunological modulation or signalling effects, all appear to play a role in the mechanisms. GR-1, B-54, or RC-14 strains of Lactobacillus have been shown to improve the maintenance of a normal flora and lower the risk of urinary tract infections. Additionally, it has been demonstrated that ingesting these strains into the gut changes the vaginal flora to a healthier state. Furthermore, these strains have been proven in mice to colonise the gut, prevent the growth of intestinal and urogenital pathogens, and provide protection from infections. In vitro studies have shown lactobacilli to be able to prevent uropathogenic E. coli from growing and attaching to uroepithelial cells. Reduced infection rates in humans and animals are the result of this.
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