The invention describes compositions and methods for inhibiting microbial infections associated with the use of sanitary products, such as diapers, bandages, sanitary napkins, tampons and the like. The invention comprises providing for use a sanitary product containing an effective amount of a viable non-pathogenic lactic-acid bacteria, such as Bacillus coagulans, or an extracellular product thereof, useful for inhibiting growth of parasites and pathogens on the epithelial tissue in contact with the sanitary product during use of the product. The invention also provides for enhancing biodegradation of sanitary products after use and disposal. Also described are methods using the product and systems containing the compositions.