If you’re someone who gets yeast infections or bacterial vaginosis, you may be familiar with boric acid vaginal suppositories.
These medications have been growing in popularity, and you may have even seen them pop up on social media platforms like TikTok. However, before you decide to try this medication, it’s important to understand what it is, how to use it, and its potential side effects.
In this article, we’ll dive into everything you need to know about boric acid vaginal suppositories, including their purpose, usage, dangers, and more.
What Are Boric Acid Vaginal Suppositories?
According to Dr. Sarah Yamaguchi, a board-certified gynecologist at DTLA Gynecology in Los Angeles, California, boric acid vaginal suppositories are medications that come in the form of solid capsules or pills.
They are typically prescribed by doctors to treat chronic yeast infections and bacterial vaginosis (BV) infections. These suppositories work by correcting the vaginal pH to restore the balance of normal bacteria in the vagina.
How Do Boric Acid Suppositories Work?
Boric acid is an antiseptic that can inhibit the growth of certain types of bacteria, fungi, and viruses.
When used as a vaginal suppository, boric acid can help to restore the natural acidity of the vagina, which can help to prevent the overgrowth of harmful bacteria and yeast. By doing so, boric acid suppositories can effectively treat yeast infections and BV.
When Should You Use Boric Acid Suppositories?
If you’re experiencing symptoms like itching, burning, or discharge, it’s important to see your healthcare provider for proper diagnosis and treatment.
While boric acid suppositories can be effective in treating yeast infections and BV, they should only be used under the guidance of a healthcare professional. If you’re unsure whether boric acid suppositories are right for you, talk to your doctor.
How to Use Boric Acid Suppositories
If your healthcare provider has recommended the use of boric acid suppositories, it’s important to follow their instructions carefully. Here’s an overview of how to use boric acid suppositories:
Step 1: Wash Your Hands
Before inserting a boric acid suppository, make sure to wash your hands thoroughly with soap and warm water.
Step 2: Insert the Suppository
Insert one suppository as deep into the vagina as possible while lying down on your back with your knees bent. It’s best to insert the suppository at bedtime so that it can work overnight.
Step 3: Clean Up
After inserting the suppository, wash your hands again with soap and warm water. You may experience some discharge or leakage from the suppository after insertion, so wearing a panty liner is recommended.
It’s important to note that boric acid suppositories should not be taken orally or applied externally.
Boric Acid Suppository Side Effects
Boric acid suppositories are generally well tolerated. But certain side effects are worth flagging to your healthcare provider.
If you experience any type of allergic reaction (skin rash, hives, itching) or vaginal irritation, redness, or burning, you should speak up and let your doctor know, the Cleveland Clinic reports. Vaginal discharge, on the other hand, is a common side effect and does not typically need to be flagged.
Vaginal Irritation
Boric acid can irritate the skin and tissues in the vaginal area, causing redness, swelling, and itching. This can be especially uncomfortable if you already have a yeast infection or BV.
Allergic Reactions
Some people may be allergic to boric acid, and using this medication can cause hives, difficulty breathing, and other symptoms of an allergic reaction.
Discomfort During Sex
Using boric acid suppositories can cause discomfort during sex, due to irritation or dryness in the vaginal area.
If you experience any of these side effects, stop using boric acid suppositories and see your healthcare provider.
Dangers of Boric Acid Suppositories
While boric acid suppositories can be effective in treating yeast infections and BV, they also come with potential dangers if used incorrectly. Here are some things you should be aware of:
Overdose
Using too much boric acid can be toxic and cause serious health problems, including kidney damage, seizures, and even death. Make sure to follow your healthcare provider’s instructions carefully when using boric acid suppositories.
It’s incredibly important to note that these medications are only for vaginal use. “Boric acid is toxic if taken orally and its action is topical, so it should NEVER be taken orally,” Dr. Yamaguchi stressed.
In addition to damaging the esophagus and stomach, swallowing a boric acid suppository can also result in death in extreme cases, according to Mount Sinai.
Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
Boric acid suppositories have not been extensively studied in pregnant or breastfeeding individuals, so it’s important to talk to your healthcare provider before using this medication if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
Interaction with Condoms
Using boric acid suppositories can weaken latex condoms, making them more likely to break. If you’re using boric acid suppositories, it’s best to use a non-latex condom during sex.
Children and Pets
Boric acid is toxic if ingested, so it’s important to keep boric acid suppositories out of reach of children and pets.
If you experience anyof these dangers, stop using boric acid suppositories and seek medical attention immediately.
In terms of choosing the best boric acid suppository, Dr. Yamaguchi warns that there isn’t strict regulation on over-the-counter products.
So, to ensure good quality and regulation, she recommends boric acid suppositories made by compounding pharmacies, which are pharmacies that make the medication to order for the specific individual based on a doctor’s prescription.
If you prefer to shop OTC, you can also run the brand by your healthcare provider and pharmacist before grabbing it off the shelves.
Conclusion
In conclusion, boric acid vaginal suppositories can be an effective treatment for chronic yeast infections and bacterial vaginosis.
However, it’s important to use them under the guidance of a healthcare professional and to be aware of their potential side effects and dangers. If you think that boric acid suppositories may be right for you, talk to your doctor to determine the best course of treatment for your individual needs.
By doing so, you can address uncomfortable symptoms and promote optimal vaginal health in a safe and effective manner.
