The effect of probiotic supplementation on sexual function in premenopausal and menopausal women: a randomized controlled clinical trial

Sexual activity is an important component of women's lives, which may affect their quality of life. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of probiotic supplementation on sexual function (primary outcome) and quality of life (secondary outcome). This double-blind randomized clinical trial was conducted on 64 premenopausal and menopausal women with sexual dysfunction attending health centers in Tabriz, Iran. Participants were randomly assigned to the probiotic and placebo groups using block randomization method. The probiotic group received a 250 mg capsule containing 3 × 10⁹ CFU/cap of Lactobacillus acidophilus, while the placebo group received a 250 mg capsule containing regular corn starch once daily for 8 weeks. The Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI) and the Menopause Quality of Life (MENQoL) questionnaire were completed before and eight weeks after the intervention. For comparing the mean sexual function and Menopause quality of life scores between groups, independent t, ANCOVA and Mann-Whitney U tests were used. Before intervention, no significant differences were observed between the probiotic and placebo groups in terms of FSFI and MENQoL total scores or their subscales (P > 0.05). After 8 weeks, the probiotic group had a significantly higher total FSFI score compared with the placebo group (median 19.1 vs. 18.2, P = 0.038). Also, the total MENQoL score was significantly lower in the probiotic group compared with placebo group (mean 25.1 vs. 30.9, P < 0.001). Our results indicated that probiotic consumption improves sexual function and Menopause quality of life. For a definitive conclusion, it is recommended that further studies be conducted in this area.Trial registration Iranian Registry of Clinical Trials (IRCT): IRCT20120718010324N83. Date of registration: 11 May 2024; URL: https://irct.behdasht.gov.ir/user/trial/76326/view ; Date of first registration: 19 May 2024.