lactobacillus crispatus

Lactobacillus crispatus is a rod-shaped, lactic acid-producing bacterial species of the genus Lactobacillus, naturally found in the human vagina and gastrointestinal tract. It is considered a beneficial probiotic organism due to its ability to dominate and stabilize the vaginal microbiome, lower vaginal pH through lactic acid production, and inhibit pathogenic bacteria and fungi. Specific strains such as M247 (used in Crispact) are notable for their high colonization capacity of both gut and vagina, resistance to metronidazole (allowing co-administration with antibiotics), and protective effects against bacterial vaginosis (BV), candidiasis, and recurrent urinary tract infections (UTIs). Other proprietary blends like VS-01 use multiple L. crispatus strains for direct vaginal application to restore or maintain an optimal microbiome dominated by this species[1][2][3][4]. Mechanistically, L. crispatus confers protection by regulating epithelial cell function, modulating immune responses in the vaginal mucosa, producing hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂), and outcompeting pathogens[6]. It is available as an oral or intravaginal dietary supplement.

Brand names

CrispactVS-01VS01VS 01

Other names

L. crispatus