What is boric acid suppositories: Boric Acid Suppositories: Why Doctors Advise Against Use for Vaginal Odor or Discomfort
Boric Acid Suppositories: Why Doctors Advise Against Use for Vaginal Odor or Discomfort
Boric acid suppositories have long been recommended by ob-gyns and health practitioners to help treat persistent or recurring vaginal issues like yeast infections and bacterial vaginosis (BV). Recently, some TikTok influencers have been promoting the idea that these capsules are a must-try miracle fix that can do everything from managing vaginal odor and discomfort, to curing vaginal dryness, to keeping you feeling fresh down there all day.
Is this a novel idea or a medical emergency waiting to happen? Here’s what experts think about this social media fad.
Should You Follow This Boric-Acid-As-Cure-All Advice?
The answer is a definitive no. Medical experts say there isn’t any evidence that using boric acid suppositories will help with many of the symptoms or conditions the TikTok videos claim to improve. Beyond that, they could worsen the health of your vagina.
“The bacterial flora of the vagina is a delicate balance that naturally protects the vagina,” says Jen Villavicencio, MD, lead for equity transformation at the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG). “Cleansing the vagina by any means threatens that balance and potentially increases the risk for vaginal infections, vaginitis, and vaginal injury. If you are struggling with a vaginal issue, consult a healthcare provider with experience in vaginal healthcare.”
What’s more, most of the personal products promoted as a way to “balance out yeast,” and “eliminate odor” are not regulated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Dr. Villavicencio adds that the broad availability of other products that claim to balance vaginal pH and provide all-day freshness are also unnecessary, since the vagina is primarily self-cleansing.
Vaginal Symptoms That Call for Medical Care
“If someone is experiencing unusual vaginal symptoms, such as itching, increased discharge, or a new odor, seek the counsel of a healthcare professional that can appropriately diagnose the issue and recommend proper treatment.
For routine vulvar hygiene, we recommend only the use of water or unscented soaps, and only for external use,” she says.
Diagnosis and treatment is key. Untreated, some vaginal infections with symptoms of odor or itching can lead to serious problems, including pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) or infertility.
What Are Boric Acid Suppositories?
The popular TikTok videos and claims may be new, but boric acid suppositories have been around for decades. Boric acid is a white powder derived from the element boron. It has antifungal, antibacterial, and antiviral properties and can be found in household cleaners, insecticides, and laundry stain removers. It is safe in the vagina as a bacterial or antifungal treatment but can be toxic when taken orally, so it should never be taken by mouth. (Do not ingest!)
The appeal of these suppositories? It is simple: Boric acid is inexpensive, well tolerated, and allows the user to treat themselves without a doctor’s visit or prescription.
What Can Boric Acid Suppositories Treat Safely?
Boric acid suppositories aren’t unhealthy for the vagina if they are used as directed for an appropriate diagnosed condition.
Many different types of vaginal infections can occur; the suppositories can help relieve symptoms of itching and burning for infections caused by less common fungal strains.
Perhaps most importantly, boric acid suppositories may not help relieve symptoms as well or as quickly as a prescribed treatment or better targeted OTC inserts.
Vaginal Yeast Infections (Candidiasis)
Boric acid is a solid therapy for recurring vaginal yeast infections or infections with atypical yeast species, such as Candida glabrata or Candida tropicalis, according to the department of obstetrics and gynecology at the University of Washington. However, most yeast infections are caused by a different species, Candida albans.
To treat a recurrent yeast infection, place one boric acid capsule in your vagina nightly before bed for two weeks, or as recommended by your healthcare provider.
While the capsules are not harmful to the vagina as a yeast infection treatment, they should never be taken orally. An animal study published in Frontiers In Immunology suggested that 5 percent boric acid gels can also be an effective treatment.
Bacterial Vaginosis (BV)
While not as well studied as in yeast infections, boric acid may also provide relief for recurrent bacterial vaginosis, particularly when taken in conjunction with other therapies. According to research published in the journal Sexually Transmitted Diseases boric acid — used along with 500 milligrams of nitroimidazole, an antibiotic used to treat infections — improved symptoms in 92 out of 93 patients included in the study.
Recommendations for the Use of Boric Acid Suppositories
Pregnant people should not use boric acid suppositories. Talk to your doctor before you use boric acid if you have any of the following:
- Diabetes
- Frequent infections
- HIV/AIDS
- Immune system problems
- An unusual or allergic reaction to boric acid, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives
Concerned About Vaginal Symptoms or Your Vaginal Health?
Make an in-person or telehealth appointment with your ob-gyn or other healthcare provider if you’re experiencing symptoms of itching or burning that may be a sign of a yeast infection or BV.
If you don’t have easy access to an ob-gyn, Planned Parenthood offers free or affordable telemedicine options for women both on their website and their app.
The Risks of Medical Misinformation vs. the Benefits of Reliable Sources
TikTok may be addictive, but their videos are no substitute for proper medical advice — and can even prove outright dangerous. “The spread of medical misinformation, myths, and fallacies is harmful for patients,” says Christopher M. Zahn, MD, chief for clinical practice at ACOG. “People seeking information about their health online should refer only to reliable, reputable sources.
“Just because information is online or on social media doesn’t mean that it is true, or based on any reliable medical evidence. It is a sad reality that some people intentionally disseminate false information or simply decide to share unproven medical allegations without confirming the truth.”
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Use, Side Effects, Risks, and More
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Was this helpful?
Boric acid vaginal suppositories may help treat yeast infections. But some people, including those who may be pregnant, should avoid using them.
Does boric acid help with a yeast infection?
- Boric acid is a naturally occurring compound with antifungal and antimicrobial properties.
- Boric acid suppositories are a safe and effective way to treat vaginal yeast infections.
- Boric acid is available in gelatin capsules that can be inserted into the vagina to stop the growth of yeast.
- Within a few days of starting treatment, you may notice improvements in symptoms. Typically, the infection will clear within 1 to 2 weeks.
Was this helpful?
If you have recurrent or chronic yeast infections, boric acid may be a treatment worth investigating. Boric acid has been used to treat vaginal infections for over 100 years.
Not only is it antiviral and antifungal, but it also works to treat both Candida albicans and the more resistant Candida glabrata yeast strains.
Boric acid is available over the counter and can be placed inside gelatin capsules that you insert into your vagina.
Keep reading to learn more about this safe and affordable treatment method.
Boric acid is a water-soluble compound containing oxygen, boron, and hydrogen.
It’s a white substance that comes in powder or crystal form.
Researchers believe boric acid has antifungal and antibacterial properties.
Diluted boric acid may be used to treat skin conditions like diaper rash, insect bites, athlete’s foot, foot odor, and yeast infections.
In a 2011 research review, researchers evaluated multiple studies revolving around boric acid as a treatment for recurrent vulvovaginal candidiasis.
They found 14 studies in total — two randomized clinical trials, nine case series, and four case reports. Cure rates involving the use of boric acid varied between 40% and 100%, and none of the studies reported major differences in yeast infection recurrence rates.
The researchers concluded that with all the available research, boric acid is a safe alternative to other treatments. It’s also an affordable alternative to more conventional treatments that may not target the non-albicans or azole-resistant strains of yeast.
Usage recommendations vary among the studies.
A 2003 study examined the use of suppositories for 2 weeks versus 3 weeks. The result? There was little to no difference in outcome with the longer treatment duration.
A 2019 study looked at the effectiveness of boric acid for recurrent yeast infections. It found that boric acid suppositories were effective in managing recurrent yeast infections with minimal side effects.
Before you try boric acid suppositories, make an appointment with your healthcare professional to get a diagnosis. They can also offer guidance on how to use boric acid suppositories and other alternative remedies.
You can shop for premade boric acid suppositories at most drugstores or online.
Popular brands include:
- pH-D Feminine Health Support
- SEROFlora
- BoriCap
You can also make your own capsules. You’ll need boric acid powder, which you can buy online, and size 00 gelatin capsules.
Simply scoop or funnel the powder into the capsule. Use a dinner knife to remove any excess powder from the top and close the capsule tightly.
With either approach, the standard dosage is 600 milligrams per day, which you’ll insert via suppository daily for anywhere from 7 to 14 days.
To insert the suppository:
- Wash your hands thoroughly before taking the capsule out of the package.
- Although you can insert the suppository at any angle, many people find it helpful to lie on their back with bent knees. You can also stand with your knees bent and your feet a few inches apart.
- Gently insert one suppository as far as it can comfortably go into your vagina. You may use your finger or use the type of applicator that comes with anti-thrush treatments.
- If applicable, remove the applicator and throw it away.
- Consider wearing a panty liner, as there may be discharge after you insert the suppository.
- Wash your hands before resuming your daily activities.
Be sure to insert the suppository at the same time each day. You may find that bedtime works best for your schedule.
Here are some other tips:
- You may see some improvement in as little as one day, but it’s important to complete the full course of medication to ensure that the infection doesn’t return.
- If you have an acute infection, consider inserting capsules twice daily into the vagina for 7 to 14 days.
- If you experience chronic or recurring infections, consider using one suppository each day.
- In all cases, contact your healthcare professional for help with dosage, frequency, and other concerns.
Although boric acid suppositories are generally safe for adults, minor side effects are possible.
Side effects may include:
- burning at the insertion site
- watery discharge
- redness in the vaginal area
If you experience severe discomfort, discontinue use. See your healthcare professional if your symptoms persist even after ending treatment.
Don’t use boric acid suppositories if:
- you’re pregnant, as the ingredients are toxic to the developing fetus
- you have a scrape or other open wound in the vagina
Boric acid is toxic when taken orally, so it should only be used via a vaginal suppository.
Boric acid is particularly effective against yeast infections caused by Candida glabrata. There are other options available, like topical flucytosine (Ancobon), that also target this more resistant yeast.
Ancobon can be used alone or in combination with the suppositories. In a 2003 study, women who didn’t respond to boric acid therapy applied topical flucytosine nightly for 2 weeks. This treatment worked for 27 out of 30 women, or in 90% of the cases.
Ancobon and other antifungal medications require a prescription. Talk with your healthcare professional about this and other treatment options.
Taking good care of your immune system and practicing proper hygiene habits may help prevent yeast infections. Try these tips to help reduce your risk of getting a yeast infection:
- Take a probiotic supplement or eat probiotic foods.
- Eat a nutritious, well-balanced diet.
- Wear breathable, loose clothing.
- Avoid douching or washing with harsh soaps.
- Wash regularly with mild soap and warm water.
- Don’t sit in wet clothes.
- Limit time in hot tubs and hot baths.
- Manage diabetes and other health conditions.
If you’ve never had a yeast infection, it’s best to schedule a visit with your healthcare professional to confirm your symptoms are caused by a yeast infection. Other conditions like bacterial vaginosis and some sexually transmitted infections can cause similar symptoms.
Often, mild yeast infections can be treated with over-the-counter medications. However, if symptoms don’t improve within 7 to 10 days after treatment ends or the infection returns, it’s best to contact your healthcare professional.
How long does it take for boric acid to treat a yeast infection?
Boric acid should clear a yeast infection completely within 1 to 2 weeks of treatment. You’ll likely notice symptoms improving within a couple of days of starting treatment.
Can boric acid be used as a preventive against yeast infections?
Some doctors may recommend using boric acid to prevent recurrent yeast infections.
They may recommend inserting a boric acid suppository once or twice weekly for 3 to 4 months to prevent yeast infections.
Who should avoid using boric acid?
Avoid using boric acid suppositories if you have any open wounds, sores, or ulcers in your vaginal area. Boric acid can be toxic if ingested or put on open wounds. In addition, avoid using boric acid suppositories if you’re pregnant or breastfeeding.
If you’ve had multiple yeast infections or if your current infection has been lingering, boric acid suppositories may be just the thing to help clear up the infection.
Talk with your healthcare professional about this treatment option and how it might help you.
📜 Instructions for use Osarbon ® 💊 Composition of Osarbon ® ✅ Use of Osarbon ® 📅 Storage conditions Osarbon ® ⏳ Shelf life Osarbon ® yourself Search for analogues Product description Osarbon ® Based on the officially approved instructions for use of the drug and prepared for the electronic edition of the Vidal handbook 2008, last updated: 2020. Marketing authorization holder: NIZHFARM JSC ATX code: G01AB01 (Acetarsol) Active ingredients
Dosage form
Release form, packaging and composition |
07.24
Eur.
To prevent resorption of the drug (and possible intoxication), it is necessary to maintain the acidic environment of the vagina.| A59 | Trichomoniasis |
| N77.1 | Vaginitis, vulvitis and vulvovaginitis in infectious and parasitic diseases classified elsewhere |
Dosing regimen
Having previously released the suppository from the blister pack, it is administered lying on the back, deep into the vagina.
Apply 1 suppository 1 time / day for 10 days.
Side effect
Allergic reactions, hepatitis, polyneuritis.
Contraindications for use
- hypersensitivity to drug components;
- liver and/or kidney failure;
- diabetes mellitus;
- hemorrhagic diathesis;
- tuberculosis;
- pregnancy.
Use in pregnancy and lactation
The drug is contraindicated in pregnancy.
Use in hepatic dysfunction
The drug is contraindicated in liver failure.
Use in impaired renal function
The drug is contraindicated in renal insufficiency.
Special instructions
The use of the drug does not affect driving and working with machinery and equipment.
Overdose
When Osarbon was used intravaginally, there were no cases of overdose.
Drug interactions
Drug interaction of the drug has not yet been described.
Storage conditions of the drug Osarbon
®
List A.
In a place protected from light and out of reach of children at a temperature not exceeding 25°C.
Shelf life of Osarbon
®
Shelf life 3 years. Do not use the drug after the expiration date indicated on the package.
Terms of sale
The drug is dispensed by prescription.
Keep
If you want to place a link to the description of this drug – use this code
Osarbon ® . Description of the drug in the reference book Vidal.
Vaginal suppositories CYDONIA D.O.O. Kandibor – “The only suppositories in Ukraine with boric acid for the treatment and prevention of thrush.”
Hello everyone!
Today I want to tell you about the only vaginal suppositories with boric acid registered in Ukraine – Kandibor.
GENERAL DATA :
Release form: suppositories.
Pack quantity: 14 pieces.
Manufacturer: Bosnia and Herzegovina.
Cost: 180 hryvnia.
COMPOSITION :
– boric acid – 600 mg;
– centella asiatica extract – 60 mg;
– excipients: hydrogenated triglycerides, beeswax, propylene glycol, tocopherol.
The purpose of the drug:
Boric acid has an antiseptic effect and shows a fungicidal effect on yeast fungi of the genus Candida, and also has an astringent effect on the mucous membranes.
Centella asiatica extract has an anti-inflammatory effect, promotes regeneration and improves trophism of the vaginal mucosa.
INDICATIONS FOR USE :
– recurrent vulvovaginal candidiasis;
– Vulvovaginal candidiasis caused by Candida non-albicans.
CONTRAINDICATIONS :
– pregnancy;
– period of breastfeeding;
– children’s age.
APPLICATION OF KANDIBOR AND MY IMPRESSIONS:
Why do I need such candles?
I have been taking medications that disrupt the natural microflora of the vagina for a very long time.
From time to time there is thrush, which I fight only with Clotrimazole and borax in glycerin. I cannot take fluconazole, it is incompatible with my drugs.
Some girls make such candles themselves from wax and boric acid powder, but I accidentally discovered that there is such a wonderful preparation as Kandibor.
I think that the price for it is too high, since boric acid itself costs a penny, but there is no other way out, you have to buy it.
I put Candibor candles according to the instructions for 1 candle for 14 days, and then for prevention – 2 times a week.