Boostin' Bacteria Can Be Good

Lactobacillus, a beneficial bacteria usually present in women's genital tract, helps lower HIV levels in vaginal fluids, in turn reducing the risk of spreading the virus by sexual contact, according to a study presented at the 15th Conference on Retroviruses and Opportunistic Infections. Women with lower Lactobacillus levels were shown to have higher HIV levels in their vaginal fluids. The bacteria, a close cousin of the 'good' bacteria widely found in yogurt, binds to HIV and secretes hydrogen peroxide, which kills the virus. 'These findings underscore the importance of maintaining healthy vaginal flora for HIV-positive women,' researcher Jane Hitti states.