Vaginal vitamin D for cervical dysplasia & infections (study)

Author: Jessica Lloyd
Senior Vulvovaginal Specialist Naturopath | BHSc(N) | ISSVD, ISSWSH, BSSM, ATMS

Last reviewed: July 23, 2026

Researchers looked into vitamin D and its impact on recurrent cervical infections and in those with cervix dysplasia (pre-cancerous cell changes to the cervix).¹

Two hundred biological females took part in the study, using 12,500IU vitamin D vaginally three nights a week for six weeks, after initial standard treatment for infections.

Results of the study

High dose vitamin D, when compared to lactobacillus vaginal suppositories, may be more effective.
High-dose vitamin D was very anti-inflammatory
After six weeks, 79 per cent of participants had ‘less vaginal problems’, ‘less discharge’ and ‘less problems with sexual intercourse’.
Seven per cent still had bacterial or fungal vaginal infections that required treatment.
Vitamin D is absorbed by the vaginal mucosa, but reabsorption may be individually very different.
The CIN1 group showed less abnormal cell development.
The CIN2 group had no or only temporary abnormal cell development.
More research is required with more data and longer follow-up.
It is unclear whether this treatment is safe during pregnancy so contraception during treatment is advised.

What this means

This is a small but interesting study: high-dose vaginal vitamin D was anti-inflammatory and, in this group, looked at least as helpful as lactobacillus pessaries for recurrent infections and early cervical cell changes. It fits a root-cause, anti-inflammatory approach – but it is early days, the numbers are small and the follow-up short, so it is a promising signal rather than settled treatment. Safety in pregnancy is not established, which is why contraception is advised during treatment.

This article is general information and not a substitute for personalised medical advice. If you are dealing with recurrent infections or abnormal cervical cells, please see an experienced practitioner.