Lactobacillus helveticus HY7801 ameliorates vulvovaginal candidiasis in mice by inhibiting fungal growth and NF-κB activation

► We examine anti-inflammatory effect of LAB against vulvovaginal candidiasis (VVC). ► Among the LABs tested, L. helveticus HY7801 (LH) most potently inhibits VVC. ► LH inhibits the growth of Candida albicans. ► LH decreases TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6, COX-2, and iNOS and suppresses NF-κB pathway. ► LH leads to a potential shift in the vaginal microflora present.