Are boric acid suppositories safe for vaginal use. How effective are they in treating recurrent yeast infections and bacterial vaginosis. What are the potential side effects and precautions when using boric acid suppositories.

Understanding Boric Acid and Its Applications in Vaginal Health

Boric acid, a chemical compound with various uses, has gained attention in the realm of vaginal health. It’s commonly available in suppository form for treating certain types of vaginal infections. Despite concerns about its potential toxicity, when used as directed, boric acid suppositories are generally considered safe for vaginal application.

What is Boric Acid?

Boric acid is a naturally occurring compound composed of boron, oxygen, and hydrogen. It has been utilized for its antimicrobial and antifungal properties in various medical and industrial applications. In the context of vaginal health, boric acid suppositories are typically used to address recurrent yeast infections and bacterial vaginosis.

Safety Profile of Boric Acid Suppositories

The safety of boric acid suppositories has been a topic of discussion among healthcare professionals and patients alike. It’s crucial to distinguish between the risks associated with oral ingestion and vaginal application.

Have There Been Any Deaths from Boric Acid Suppositories?

No deaths have been reported from the proper use of boric acid suppositories. While boric acid can be toxic when ingested orally, vaginal applications are considered safe when used as directed. This distinction is vital for understanding the appropriate use of boric acid in treating vaginal infections.

Toxicity Concerns and Precautions

Boric acid is indeed toxic when consumed orally. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), ingesting about 30 grams of boric acid in a short period can be lethal. However, a typical boric acid suppository contains only 600 milligrams, which is far below the toxic threshold when used vaginally.

• Never swallow boric acid suppositories
• Keep out of reach of children
• Use only as directed for vaginal application
• Consult a healthcare provider before use

Efficacy of Boric Acid in Treating Vaginal Infections

Boric acid has shown promise in treating recurrent vaginal infections, particularly yeast infections and bacterial vaginosis. Its effectiveness has been the subject of several studies, providing insights into its potential as a treatment option.

Boric Acid for Yeast Infections

A 2011 research review examined 14 studies on boric acid’s efficacy in treating recurrent yeast infections. The results were encouraging, with cure rates ranging from 40% to 100%, depending on the study. This variability suggests that while boric acid can be effective, individual responses may differ.

Boric Acid for Bacterial Vaginosis

Research on boric acid for bacterial vaginosis is more limited but shows potential. A 2009 clinical trial combined oral nitroimidazole with boric acid suppositories, resulting in cure rates between 88% and 92%. However, many participants experienced a recurrence of the infection over time, indicating that further research is needed to establish long-term efficacy.

Mechanism of Action: How Does Boric Acid Work?

The exact mechanism by which boric acid combats vaginal infections is not fully understood. However, researchers have proposed several theories:

1. Disruption of fungal and bacterial growth
2. Alteration of vaginal pH
3. Interference with microbial adherence to vaginal epithelial cells
4. Potential anti-inflammatory effects

These proposed mechanisms suggest that boric acid may work through multiple pathways to address vaginal infections, contributing to its effectiveness in some cases.

Side Effects and Considerations When Using Boric Acid Suppositories

While generally safe for vaginal use, boric acid suppositories can cause mild side effects in some individuals. It’s important to be aware of these potential effects and know when to seek medical attention.

Common Side Effects

• Vaginal irritation
• Increased vaginal discharge
• Watery discharge
• Mild burning sensation

These side effects are typically mild and resolve on their own. However, if they persist or worsen, it’s advisable to consult a healthcare provider.

When to Seek Medical Attention

In rare cases, more severe reactions may occur. Seek immediate medical care if you experience:

• Severe vaginal pain or discomfort
• Signs of an allergic reaction (swelling, difficulty breathing)
• Fever or chills
• Unusual vaginal bleeding

Boric Acid and Reproductive Health: Addressing Concerns

Given that boric acid suppositories are inserted vaginally, questions have arisen regarding their potential impact on reproductive health. Animal studies have shown some effects on fertility and fetal development when boric acid is ingested orally. However, human studies have not replicated these findings.

Human Studies on Boron Exposure

A 2020 research review compared animal studies with human studies on high environmental boron exposure. The findings were reassuring:

• High levels of boron exposure in humans did not produce the same reproductive effects observed in animals
• Even the highest levels of environmental boron exposure were too low to reach blood and tissue levels that would have harmful effects on human reproduction

These findings suggest that when used as directed, boric acid suppositories are unlikely to pose significant risks to reproductive health. However, as with any medication, it’s essential to consult with a healthcare provider before use, especially if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant.

Proper Usage and Precautions for Boric Acid Suppositories

To ensure safety and maximize effectiveness, it’s crucial to use boric acid suppositories correctly and take necessary precautions.

How to Use Boric Acid Suppositories

1. Wash your hands thoroughly before and after insertion
2. Insert one suppository into the vagina at bedtime
3. Use for 7-14 days, or as directed by your healthcare provider
4. Wear a panty liner to catch any excess discharge
5. Avoid sexual intercourse during treatment

Important Precautions

• Do not use if pregnant or breastfeeding without consulting a doctor
• Avoid if you have open wounds or sores in the vaginal area
• Do not use during your menstrual period
• Stop use and seek medical attention if you experience severe side effects
• Store in a cool, dry place out of reach of children and pets

Alternatives to Boric Acid for Vaginal Infections

While boric acid can be effective for some individuals, it’s not the only option for treating vaginal infections. Several alternatives are available, both over-the-counter and by prescription.

Over-the-Counter Options

• Miconazole (Monistat) for yeast infections
• Clotrimazole (Gyne-Lotrimin) for yeast infections
• Probiotics specifically formulated for vaginal health

Prescription Medications

• Fluconazole (Diflucan) for yeast infections
• Metronidazole (Flagyl) for bacterial vaginosis
• Clindamycin for bacterial vaginosis

The choice of treatment depends on the specific type of infection, its severity, and individual factors. Always consult with a healthcare provider to determine the most appropriate treatment for your situation.

When to Consult a Healthcare Provider

While boric acid suppositories can be effective for some vaginal infections, it’s important to know when professional medical advice is necessary.

Seek Medical Attention If:

• Symptoms persist or worsen after a full course of treatment
• You experience recurrent infections (more than 4 per year)
• You have unusual symptoms not typical of a yeast infection or bacterial vaginosis
• You’re pregnant or think you might be pregnant
• You have a compromised immune system
• You’re unsure about the cause of your symptoms

A healthcare provider can perform proper diagnostic tests to identify the specific cause of your symptoms and recommend the most appropriate treatment plan.

Importance of Professional Diagnosis

Self-diagnosis and treatment of vaginal infections can sometimes lead to inappropriate use of over-the-counter products, including boric acid suppositories. This can delay proper treatment and potentially allow an infection to worsen. A professional diagnosis ensures that you receive the most effective treatment for your specific condition.

Future Research and Developments in Boric Acid Treatment

As interest in alternative treatments for vaginal infections grows, ongoing research continues to explore the potential of boric acid and its applications in women’s health.

Current Research Focus

• Optimizing dosage and duration of boric acid treatment
• Investigating combination therapies with conventional antibiotics
• Exploring potential applications for other types of vaginal infections
• Studying long-term effects and safety profiles

These research efforts aim to provide more comprehensive data on the efficacy and safety of boric acid suppositories, potentially leading to more standardized treatment protocols and expanded applications in the future.

Emerging Formulations

Researchers are also exploring new formulations of boric acid that may enhance its effectiveness or reduce side effects. These include:

• Slow-release suppositories for extended treatment
• Combination products with probiotics or other beneficial ingredients
• Gel or cream formulations for easier application

As research progresses, these developments may offer more options for individuals seeking alternative treatments for recurrent vaginal infections.

Conclusion: Balancing Efficacy and Safety in Vaginal Health

Boric acid suppositories represent a potentially effective option for treating certain vaginal infections, particularly in cases where conventional treatments have failed. While concerns about toxicity are valid when considering oral ingestion, properly used vaginal suppositories have a good safety profile with minimal risk of serious side effects.

However, it’s crucial to approach any treatment with caution and under the guidance of a healthcare professional. The effectiveness of boric acid can vary among individuals, and it’s not appropriate for all types of vaginal infections or conditions. Proper diagnosis, careful consideration of alternatives, and adherence to usage guidelines are essential for ensuring both safety and efficacy.

As research continues to evolve, our understanding of boric acid’s role in vaginal health may expand, potentially leading to more refined treatment protocols and applications. In the meantime, individuals experiencing recurrent vaginal infections should work closely with their healthcare providers to develop a comprehensive treatment plan that may include boric acid suppositories as one of several potential options.

By staying informed about the latest research, understanding the proper use and limitations of boric acid suppositories, and maintaining open communication with healthcare providers, individuals can make informed decisions about their vaginal health and explore safe, effective treatment options for managing recurrent infections.

Have There Ever Been Deaths from Boric Acid Suppositories?

Boric acid is a chemical that’s been used to treat some types of vaginal infections. It’s available in several forms, including suppositories that you place into your vagina.

You may have heard that you can become very sick or potentially die from boric acid. Because of this, you may be wondering whether boric acid suppositories are actually safe to use.

There have been no deaths reported from using boric acid suppositories. While boric acid can indeed be toxic when ingested orally, vaginal applications are considered to be safe.

Continue reading to learn more about the safety of boric acid suppositories and more.

A quick internet search may bring up some concern about the safety of boric acid suppositories.

But while boric acid suppositories can cause mild side effects, no serious side effects or deaths have been reported.

Important safety information

While swallowing a boric acid suppository is very dangerous, inserting one labeled for vaginal application into the vagina is generally considered safe.

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Is boric acid toxic?

When consumed by mouth, boric acid is toxic and can potentially lead to death. Deaths due to accidental boric acid ingestion have been reported in both adults and children.

A 2011 statement from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) notes that ingesting about 30 grams of boric acid in a short period of time is toxic to humans and can eventually result in death.

This is much more than the amount of boric acid that’s in a boric acid suppository, which is typically 600 milligrams.

Because suppositories may appear similar to a pill that you take orally, there is the risk that they could be accidentally swallowed.

Swallowing a boric acid suppository is dangerous, but using one as labeled for vaginal application is generally safe.

Side effects of using boric acid vaginal suppositories as directed tend to be mild. They can include things like vaginal irritation or discharge.

Boric acid and reproductive health

Because boric acid suppositories are inserted into the vagina, another concern related to them has to do with their potential effect on reproductive health.

Studies in animals have found that when taken orally, boric acid can affect fertility in male animals and affect a developing fetus in female animals. However, studies in humans haven’t returned the same results.

A 2020 research review examined the animal studies discussed above and compared them with studies in humans who are regularly exposed to high levels of boron, the key element in boric acid, in the environment.

Overall, researchers found that:

• So far, studies of human exposure to high levels of boron haven’t produced the same reproductive effects that have been observed in animals.
• Even the highest levels of environmental boron exposure were too low to reach blood and tissue levels that would have harmful effects on human reproduction.

Symptoms of boric acid poisoning

Boric acid suppositories can appear similar to pills that you’d take orally. If you or someone else accidentally swallows a boric acid suppository, call 911 or local emergency services.

Some symptoms of boric acid poisoning include:

• abdominal pain
• nausea or vomiting
• diarrhea
• headaches
• feeling weak or lethargic
• tremors
• restlessness

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Boric acid has been used, either alone or with other medications, to treat some types of recurrent vaginal infections, such as yeast infections and bacterial vaginosis. (A recurrent infection is an infection that continues to return, despite treatment.)

A 2011 research review looked at 14 studies comparing boric acid with other treatments for recurrent yeast infections. The included studies were clinical trials, case series, and case studies. Researchers found that boric acid had a cure rate of 40 to 100 percent, depending on the study.

Research into boric acid for bacterial vaginosis is more limited. To date, one clinical trial has been performed on boric acid for bacterial vaginosis, although others have been proposed.

In the 2009 trial, participants were given oral nitroimidazole, an antimicrobial drug used to treat vaginal infections, followed by boric acid suppositories.

Cure rates were between 88 and 92 percent after this treatment. However, the infection returned in many participants over the course of several weeks.

Some more research has also found that boric acid may help treat infections with Trichomonas vaginalis that are difficult to treat. T. vaginalis is the organism that causes trichomoniasis, a sexually transmitted infection (STI).

How exactly does boric acid work?

It’s unclear how boric acid works to treat vaginal infections. It’s believed that it may work through disrupting fungal and bacterial growth.

It may also prevent these organisms from forming biofilms. Biofilms are a group of microorganisms organized within a sticky matrix. Organisms that have formed a biofilm can be harder to treat with some types of medications.

New boric acid-based therapies for vaginal infections

A novel boric acid-based therapy appears to be safe and effective in clinical trials. It’s called TOL-463. TOL-463 is made of boric acid and another chemical called EDTA, which can enhance the activity of boric acid.

A 2018 paper reported the results of a phase 2 clinical trial of TOL-463 for the treatment of yeast infections and bacterial vaginosis. The trial had 106 participants who took TOL-463 once per day for a week.

Researchers found that a TOL-463 vaginal insert had a cure rate of 92 percent for yeast infections and 59 percent for bacterial vaginosis. The researchers note that this was comparable to the cure rates of other approved treatments for these conditions.

Additionally, side effects were mild and mainly included vaginal irritation. No serious or severe side effects were observed.

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Using boric acid suppositories is associated with a few side effects. These are generally mild and can include:

• vaginal burning
• watery vaginal discharge
• vaginal redness

If you’re using boric acid suppositories to treat a vaginal infection and experience significant discomfort, stop using them and contact your doctor for other treatment options.

Additionally, if you’ve been using boric acid suppositories and your infection isn’t getting better or gets worse, contact your doctor for a different treatment option.

Avoid having vaginal intercourse while you’re using boric acid suppositories.

It may also be a good idea to avoid receiving oral sex to reduce the risk of your partner ingesting boric acid that may still be present in or around your vagina.

Boric acid products and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA)

It’s likely you’ll notice that boric acid suppositories are marketed as a homeopathic product. It’s important to know that homeopathic products, including boric acid suppositories, aren’t currently approved by the FDA.

This means that the FDA hasn’t reviewed these products for their safety and effectiveness in treating specific health conditions before they entered the market.

Because of this, it’s important to talk with your doctor before using any homeopathic product, including boric acid suppositories.

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Because studies into the reproductive effects of boric acid are ongoing, avoid boric acid suppositories if you’re:

• pregnant
• planning to become pregnant
• breastfeeding

Additionally, avoid using boric acid suppositories if you:

• currently have vaginal bleeding, open cuts, or sores in or around your vagina
• have or suspect that you have an STI or pelvic inflammatory disease
• are currently experiencing symptoms that could indicate a more serious condition, such as fever, chills, or nausea and vomiting
• have certain underlying health conditions, such as diabetes or a weakened immune system
• are currently taking blood-thinning medications

Boric acid typically appears as an odorless white powder. It can be naturally found in the environment in:

• rocks
• soil
• water
• plants

Additionally, boric acid is used in various commercial products, such as:

• pesticides
• plant fertilizers
• household cleaning products
• laundry detergents
• personal care products

Boric acid was first used as an antiseptic in 1873. Since then, it has continued to be used for various vaginal infections.

Because boric acid is naturally found in the environment, many people consider it to be a “greener” option for treating vaginal infections. But this isn’t entirely true.

One of the main sources of boron and boric acid is the mining of minerals that have a high boron content. Not only does mining consume a lot of resources, but it can also introduce pollutants into the environment.

Boric acid suppositories can be used to treat some types of recurrent vaginal infections. Examples include yeast infections and bacterial vaginosis.

Using boric acid suppositories as labeled is generally safe. Side effects are mild and may include vaginal irritation and discharge. No serious side effects or deaths have been reported.

Boric acid is toxic when ingested by mouth, though. Boric acid poisoning can lead to serious symptoms and can be fatal. Because of this, always keep boric acid suppositories separate from oral medications to avoid accidental ingestion.

There are some people who should avoid using boric acid suppositories. If you’re interested in using boric acid suppositories or have questions or concerns, speak with your doctor first.

Generic vs. Brand Name, and More

If you’re looking at treatment options for certain types of fungal infections, you may want to learn more about fluconazole (Diflucan).

Fluconazole is a generic prescription drug used in adults and some children to:

• treat and prevent candidiasis, such as vaginal yeast infections and thrush
• treat a kind of fungal meningitis

Fluconazole comes as a tablet and a suspension (a type of liquid mixture) that you swallow. These forms are available as the brand-name drug Diflucan. Fluconazole also comes as a liquid that’s given as an IV infusion (an injection into a vein over a period of time). The IV infusion form is given by your doctor or another healthcare professional.

Fluconazole belongs to a group of drugs called triazole antifungals.

Keep reading for details on fluconazole, its cost, and how to save money on prescriptions.

Note: For more details on fluconazole tablets, see this in-depth article.

The price you pay for fluconazole can vary. Your cost may depend on your treatment plan, your insurance coverage, and the pharmacy you use. It’ll also depend on how much you have to pay for a visit with your doctor or a hospital to receive injectable fluconazole.

To find out how much you’ll pay for fluconazole, talk with your doctor, pharmacist, or insurance provider.

Note: If you have insurance, you may need to get prior authorization before your insurance provider will cover fluconazole. This means your insurer and your doctor will discuss Fluconazole in regard to your treatment. Then the insurance company will determine whether the drug is covered. If fluconazole requires prior authorization and you don’t receive it before you start treatment, you could pay the full cost of the drug.

Be sure to ask your insurance company whether fluconazole requires prior authorization.

Below are answers to some frequently asked questions about fluconazole and its cost.

Does fluconazole come as a cream or syrup? If so, how much do these forms of the drug cost?

No, fluconazole does not come as a cream or syrup. But it does come as a liquid suspension that you swallow. The suspension is also available as the brand-name drug Diflucan.

Your cost for the fluconazole liquid suspension can vary depending on the pharmacy you use, your dosage, and your insurance coverage (if you have it). A higher strength of fluconazole suspension usually costs more than the lower strength suspension.

If you have questions about your specific cost of fluconazole, talk with your doctor.

What’s the price of fluconazole tablets (50 mg, 100 mg, 150 mg, and 200 mg)?

The price of fluconazole tablets can vary. It’s possible that the higher-strength tablets of fluconazole cost more than the lower strengths. The price for fluconazole tablets can also vary depending on the pharmacy you use.

To find out the exact cost of your dosage of fluconazole, talk with your doctor, pharmacist, or insurance provider.

For more details on fluconazole’s dosages, see this in-depth article.

How much does fluconazole cost without insurance?

Prescription drugs usually cost less with insurance coverage. But if you don’t have insurance, your cost will depend on certain factors, such as:

• the pharmacy you use
• your dosage and treatment plan
• the form of the drug you’re prescribed
• whether you take your dose at home or receive it in a healthcare facility

To learn what you’ll pay for fluconazole without insurance, talk with your doctor or pharmacist.

For resources that could help you save on the cost of fluconazole, see the “Can I get help paying for fluconazole?” section below.

Fluconazole is a generic drug. This means it’s an exact copy of the active drug in a brand-name medication. A generic is considered just as safe and effective as the original drug. And generics generally cost less than brand-name drugs.

Fluconazole comes in a brand-name version called Diflucan. To find out how the costs of Diflucan and Fluconazole compare, talk with your doctor, pharmacist, or insurance provider.

If you’ve been prescribed fluconazole and you’re interested in using Diflucan instead, talk with your doctor. They may prefer that you take one version instead of the other. In addition, you’ll need to check with your insurance provider. This is because it may only cover one drug or the other.

Why is there such a cost difference between brand-name drugs and generics?

Years of research and testing are needed to ensure that brand-name drugs are safe and effective. This testing can make the drugs expensive. The manufacturer of a brand-name drug can sell the drug for up to 20 years. After that, other drugmakers can create generic versions. This competition in the market can lead to lower costs for generics. And because generics have the same active ingredients as brand-name drugs, they don’t need to be studied again. This can also lead to lower generic costs.

Fluconazole may be taken either short term or long term. If you take fluconazole long term, you may be able to lower your costs in the following ways:

Look into getting a 90-day supply of your medication. You may be able to get a 90-day supply of fluconazole if approved by your insurance company. This could reduce your number of trips to the pharmacy and help lower the cost of fluconazole. If you’re interested in getting a 90-day supply of this drug, talk with your doctor, pharmacist, or insurance provider.

Use a mail-order pharmacy to get your medication. Using a mail-order pharmacy might help lower your cost of fluconazole. Plus, you could get your medication without leaving home. Some Medicare plans may help cover the cost of mail-order drugs. You may also be able to get a 90-day supply of the drug through mail order. If you don’t have health insurance, talk with your doctor or pharmacist. They may be able to suggest online pharmacy options that could work for you.

If you need help covering the cost of fluconazole or understanding your insurance, check out these resources:

• NeedyMeds
• Medicine Assistance Tool

On these sites, you can find insurance information, details on drug assistance programs, and links to savings cards and other services.

If you have questions about how to pay for your prescription, talk with your doctor or pharmacist.

If you still have questions about the cost of fluconazole, talk with your doctor or pharmacist. They may be able to give you a better idea of what you’ll pay for this drug. But if you have health insurance, you’ll need to talk with your insurance provider to learn the actual cost you’d pay for fluconazole.

Examples of questions you may want to ask your doctor or insurance provider include:

• If I can’t afford my medication, what are my options?
• Do the different forms of fluconazole vary in price?
• Are there any other lower cost drugs that can treat my condition?

To get information on different conditions and tips for improving your health, subscribe to any of Healthline’s newsletters. You may also want to check out the online communities at Bezzy. It’s a place where people with certain conditions can find support and connect with others.

Disclaimer: Healthline has made every effort to make certain that all information is factually correct, comprehensive, and up to date. However, this article should not be used as a substitute for the knowledge and expertise of a licensed healthcare professional. You should always consult your doctor or another healthcare professional before taking any medication. The drug information contained herein is subject to change and is not intended to cover all possible uses, directions, precautions, warnings, drug interactions, allergic reactions, or adverse effects. The absence of warnings or other information for a given drug does not indicate that the drug or drug combination is safe, effective, or appropriate for all patients or all specific uses.

How to cure thrush at home?

Causes of vaginal candidiasis:

• weakening of the immune system;
• diabetes mellitus;
• violation of the microflora of the vagina;
• use of aromatic pads;
• taking antibiotics and hormonal drugs;
• childbearing period;
• wearing synthetic underwear;

Thrush symptoms:

• itching that worsens during sleep and after bathing;
• appearance of a curd-like discharge;
• pain during intercourse and while going to the toilet;

Treatment of vaginal candidiasis

If the above symptoms appear, you should immediately consult a doctor and start treatment. If you skip the acute stage, then the thrush will become chronic, which is difficult to cure. It is not worth prescribing medications on your own, because then resistance of the fungus can develop.

In addition to medicines, you can also use traditional methods for treating thrush. They will help to quickly relieve symptoms and regulate the number of fungi:

1. Chamomile. This is a very common herb for the treatment of many diseases, which has an anti-inflammatory, antifungal effect, well heals microtraumas on the mucous membranes. For the treatment of thrush, a decoction for douching is prepared from chamomile inflorescences. For a liter of water, you need to take 2 tablespoons of dried flowers, boil and insist for 30 minutes. Strain the resulting broth and douche them 2 times a day;
2. Baking soda. It helps to cope with the symptoms of the disease and restore the normal microflora of the vagina. Take a teaspoon of baking soda in a glass of warm water. This solution can be douched or washed away. And you can make a bath and sit in it for about half an hour;
3. Kalanchoe. You will need fresh juice of a medicinal plant. A tampon is soaked in it and inserted into the vagina for 2 hours. It is necessary to repeat the procedure in the morning and evening;
4. Honey. This bee product helps to cope with thrush. To prepare the solution, you need 1 tablespoon of honey per glass of water. A tampon can be soaked in this solution and left in the vagina overnight. And you can lubricate the mucous membrane;
5. Tar soap. Tar has an antibacterial and antifungal effect. It fights Candida very well. You need to use soap twice a day when washing;
6. Potassium permanganate. Potassium permanganate contains potassium permanganate, which has an antimicrobial effect. A solution of potassium permanganate is used when washing twice a day. With the dilution of manganese crystals, you need to be especially careful. The solution must be made slightly pink and monitor the complete dissolution of the agent, since burns may occur;
7. Sea buckthorn oil. The tool perfectly heals wounds, relieves the symptoms of thrush, fights fungi. It is necessary to soak a tampon in oil and insert it into the vagina, leave it overnight;

You can ask questions about thrush to our doctors online. For the prevention of thrush, it is recommended to visit a gynecologist at least once a year.

Always consult your doctor before using any traditional medicine prescriptions or medications. For the prevention of thrush, it is recommended to visit a gynecologist at least once a year.

There are contraindications. Specialist consultation is required.

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causes of vaginal candidiasis, symptoms, treatment

We are sure that you are familiar with these unpleasant sensations: itching in the vagina, burning sensation, inflammation and even pain. These are all signs of thrush: a fungal infection caused by the microorganism Candida albicans. Is it possible to cope with thrush on your own or is it necessary to treat it with a doctor? Let’s figure it out together.

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Women Health

intimate health

Let’s say right away that if you notice all these unpleasant signs – discharge, smell, burning sensation and itching, then the best option is to contact a doctor who will help determine what exactly is happening to you. These may be signs of thrush, but there may also be symptoms of another disorder.

Do not self-medicate! In our articles, we collect the latest scientific data and the opinions of authoritative health experts. But remember: only a doctor can diagnose and prescribe treatment.

The doctor will prescribe medicines and, we are sure, will give some recommendations regarding both treatment and lifestyle. In addition, there are remedies that you definitely have at home – they can also alleviate your condition.

Important: everything that will be discussed below cannot be a medicine, but will only become an addition to the prescribed treatment. In addition, it is important to remember that the effectiveness of all these remedies also varies – reviews of some remedies for thrush are quite common, and few talk about the benefits of others.

Boric acid

Boric acid works as an antiseptic for thrush. Some women claim that a solution of boric acid helped to cope with thrush when everything else did not work.

For treatment, it is suggested to use vaginal tampons with boric acid: before trying this method, you need to make sure that the mucosa is not damaged. In no case do not take boric acid inside, and also refuse this method of treating thrush if you are pregnant. Stop using immediately if you feel even the slightest discomfort.

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Essential oil of oregano

To combat thrush, you need an oil obtained from oregano, a plant of the species Origanum vulgare. The results of a 2017 study showed that this oil is indeed able to inhibit the growth of fungi that cause thrush.

The oil is not recommended for use by people taking blood thinners or people with any bleeding problems.

Despite the fact that oregano oil is indeed considered a remedy for thrush, it is not recommended to apply it (mixed with base oil) to mucous membranes and in general to the vaginal area – all advice implies only inhalation of this oil.

Probiotics

Probiotics contain bacteria and products with them allow you to restore the disturbed microflora. The doctor may advise you to purchase probiotic vaginal suppositories, as well as a course of probiotics in tablets or capsules. Its duration will be at least 10 days.

Coconut oil

Coconut oil is obtained from the flesh of the coconut. This oil has a lot of useful properties, among them there are antifungal ones. Reviews of coconut oil against thrush really confirm that this remedy helps and alleviates the condition.

It is important to use pure coconut oil, which will not contain potentially harmful additives – you can apply the oil directly to the vaginal area.

Tea tree oil

This oil is another popular antiseptic that fights fungi, viruses and bacteria. Some studies have shown that tea tree oil vaginal suppositories can actually reduce the symptoms of thrush.

To combat vaginal candidiasis, it is best to choose ready-made suppositories containing tea tree oil. For very sensitive skin, this remedy may not be suitable. It is important to remember that under no circumstances should tea tree oil be consumed in food.

Apple cider vinegar

Apple cider vinegar baths are another popular remedy for thrush. It must be added to a bath with warm water, and the duration of such a bath should not exceed 20 minutes. The achieved effect is related to the fact that the acidic environment has a destructive effect on microorganisms, including fungi.

Garlic

In a number of studies, scientists have shown that garlic can kill Candida that causes thrush. The garlic solution was less effective than over-the-counter remedies but still worked.

However, this does not mean at all that you need to prepare garlic suppositories or in any way try to place garlic in the vaginal area. It is advisable to consume enough garlic with meals.

Hydrogen peroxide

Hydrogen peroxide is another well-known antiseptic that can kill germs, including yeast.

Currently, there is not enough evidence that hydrogen peroxide is effective in treating vaginal candidiasis, but many users claim to have used this remedy quite successfully.

You can try baths with hydrogen peroxide or washing with a highly diluted solution – you will have to dilute the peroxide at least twice.

Vitamin C

Vitamin C’s role in immunity and skin health is well known. Some believe that adding this vitamin to your diet can also benefit vaginal health. If you often suffer from thrush, then try to eat more foods containing vitamin C – these are citrus fruits, as well as sweet peppers.

Vitamin E

In some cases, doctors prescribe vitamin E supplements to fight thrush. It is not very clear whether it is effective, but it is known that it is able to fight the inflammatory reactions that occur against the background of fungal growth.

You can use vitamin E in the form of vaginal suppositories, as well as apply an oil solution of the vitamin to the mucous membrane in the vaginal area.