Randomized Controlled Trial Comparing Effects of Cranberry-Based Beverage on Vaginal and Gut Microbiomes in Healthy Premenopausal Women Ages 18 to 45

What this Trial Is About

This research aims to compare the effects of a cranberry-based product with a placebo on the vaginal and gastrointestinal GI microbiomes in generally healthy pre-menopausal women aged 18 to 45 years. The study focuses on how cranberry compounds, especially polyphenols like proanthocyanidins, may influence microbial communities in the genitourinary and gut areas and impact related health outcomes. Participants will be randomly assigned to one of two groups one group consumes 8 ounces of a cranberry beverage daily, while the other consumes a placebo beverage of the same volume each day. The study is controlled and parallel in design, with treatments given over a period of four weeks to assess the effects on microbiome composition and participant-reported outcomes. During the study, participants will undergo assessments including vaginal microbiome analysis, vaginal pH measurements, GI microbiome evaluation, and questionnaires on vaginal health, gastrointestinal symptoms, quality of life, and stool consistency. These evaluations occur over the four-week treatment period. Safety and adherence to the protocol will be monitored, with total participation lasting the treatment duration plus any necessary follow-up visits.

The Effect Cranberry-Based Products on the Female Microbiome