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Lactobacillus analysis: why is it performed and what does the result show?
What are lactobacilli and why are they important?
Lactobacilli are beneficial microorganisms that naturally inhabit the intestines, mouth, vagina, and skin of humans. Their main function is to maintain microbial balance, create an acidic environment that inhibits the growth of pathogenic bacteria, and participate in the formation of local immunity. Lactobacilli are especially important for the health of the digestive and reproductive systems.
A decrease in the number of lactobacilli can indicate dysbiosis, inflammation, or immune disorders. This is why the lactobacilli test is a useful tool for detecting microflora disorders.
When is the test prescribed?
Such an analysis is recommended in the case of:
frequent intestinal disorders (flatulence, diarrhea, constipation)
chronic inflammatory processes in the gastrointestinal tract
taking antibiotics, chemotherapy, or immunosuppression
complaints of itching, burning, or discomfort in the genitals
when preparing for pregnancy or IVF
in women with frequent bacterial vaginosis or candidiasis
after infections or poisonings
How is the lactobacillus test performed?
There are several types of research:
Culture for microflora (feces or smear): classical method for determining the number of colonies (CFU/g or CFU/ml)
PCR diagnostics: allows you to detect the DNA of specific strains of lactobacilli
Mass spectrometry and sequencing: modern methods for assessing the composition of the microbiota, which provide a complete picture of the balance of bacteria
The material for analysis can be feces (for intestinal microflora) or a vaginal swab (in women).
Normal values and what deviations mean
| Sample type | Lactobacillus norm |
|---|---|
| Dung | ≥10⁶–10⁸ CFU/g |
| Vaginal swab | dominant microflora — Lactobacillus spp. |
| Oropharynx (rare) | presence in small quantities |
Reduced values may indicate:
disorders after antibiotic therapy
increased stomach acidity
infections (bacterial, viral, or fungal)
immunodeficiency states
Increasing the number It is rare, but can accompany excessive use of probiotics without a doctor's prescription.
What to do in case of deviations
In case decrease in the number of lactobacteria The doctor may prescribe a course of probiotics, dietary correction (more plant fiber, fermented milk products), or prescribe treatment for the underlying disease.
At significant dominance of pathogenic microorganisms Antibacterial therapy may be required, after which the restoration of microflora is mandatory.
Recommendations for preparing for analysis
For feces: do not take probiotics, antibiotics, and laxatives 3 days before the test
For smears: do not use local antiseptics, do not perform hygiene procedures 12 hours before the analysis, avoid sexual contact the day before
The collection of material is carried out according to clear instructions - laboratories provide special containers
Lactobacillus analysis is a simple but informative way to assess the state of the microflora. It helps not only to find the cause of symptoms, but also to prevent complications, especially during periods of stress, medication, or reduced immunity.
