Vaginal infections, particularly bacterial vaginosis (BV) and vulvovaginal candidiasis (VVC), are common health concerns for women worldwide, often leading to discomfort and complications if left untreated. Recent research has increasingly focused on the role of diet in the prevention and management of these infections. This review synthesizes current findings on how dietary components, especially probiotics and prebiotics, influence vaginal health. The review explores how probiotics, found in certain foods and supplements, can help maintain a healthy vaginal microbiota by promoting beneficial bacteria and inhibiting the growth of pathogens. Prebiotics, which nourish these beneficial bacteria, also play a critical role in supporting a balanced vaginal environment. While the evidence suggests that dietary interventions may reduce the incidence and severity of BV and VVC, the review also identifies gaps in the existing research, such as the need for more studies on the long-term impact of these interventions and the most effective strains and dosages of probiotics. In conclusion, the review highlights the potential of diet, particularly the use of probiotics and prebiotics, as a complementary approach to traditional medical treatments for vaginal infections. It calls for further research to better understand these relationships and to develop evidence-based dietary recommendations for the prevention and management of BV and VVC.

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