How to Use Vaginal Suppositories Safely

If you've been prescribed a treatment for a vaginal health condition like bacterial vaginosis (BV) or a yeast infection, there's a good chance it came in suppository form. Vaginal suppositories are one of the most effective ways to deliver treatment directly to the vaginal tissue, bypassing the digestive system and acting locally, right where they're needed.

That said, if you've never used one before, the process can feel a little unfamiliar or even intimidating. With the right technique, inserting a vaginal suppository is straightforward and relatively comfortable. Below is a step-by-step guide on how to insert a vaginal suppository, along with tips on what to expect during treatment.

Key takeaways

• Vaginal suppositories are solid, oval, or cone-shaped medications or supplements designed to be inserted into the vagina, where they dissolve or melt at body temperature.
• Vaginal suppositories are commonly used to treat BV, vaginal yeast infections, and vaginal dryness, and can contain probiotics, boric acid, antifungals, antibiotics, or hyaluronic acid
• To insert a vaginal suppository, wash your hands, find a comfortable position (lying on your back with knees bent works well), and use your index finger or an applicator to push it as far as it comfortably goes, aiming towards your lower back.
• Insert the suppository at bedtime to minimize leakage, and consider wearing a panty liner to protect your clothing and bedding.
• Mild irritation or increased discharge during treatment is normal; intense burning, severe irritation, or worsening symptoms are not. Contact your healthcare provider if these occur.
• Looking for a suppository to support vaginal microbiome balance? Evvy's Vaginal Probiotic Suppositories deliver clinically-studied Lactobacillus strains directly where they're needed most.

What is a suppository?

There are several ways to take medications: you can take a pill, drink a liquid, or get a shot. Another method is using a suppository, which is a small, round, or cone-shaped object that you insert into your body, usually into your rectum, vagina, or urethra (for men).

Rectal suppositories are bullet-shaped and about an inch long with a rounded tip, used for treating conditions like allergies, constipation, hemorrhoids, or a high fever.

Vaginal suppositories, on the other hand, are inserted into the vagina using either your fingers or a special applicator. Once inside, the warmth of your body melts the suppository and releases the medication, which is absorbed by the vaginal mucosa and acts locally, with little entering the systemic bloodstream. Using suppositories isn’t always the most pleasant experience, but they can make it easier to take medicine that you can’t swallow.

They're commonly used to treat vaginal yeast infections or bacterial infections like BV, or relieve vaginal dryness. They can include lots of different ingredients, such as:

• Probiotics
• Hyaluronic acid
• Antibiotics
• Antifungals
• Boric acid

You should always talk to your healthcare provider before using any treatment in a vaginal suppository because it’s very important to know exactly what’s happening in your vaginal microbiome before you put anything in there, whether it’s prescription or over the counter.

What are vaginal suppositories used for?

Vaginal suppositories can contain a range of active ingredients depending on what they're designed to treat. Because they deliver their contents directly to the vaginal tissue rather than through the digestive system, they tend to act faster and more efficiently than oral alternatives for localized vaginal conditions. Common uses include:

• Treating bacterial infections: Antibiotic suppositories, such as metronidazole gel or clindamycin cream, are a standard treatment for BV and work by reducing the overgrowth of harmful bacteria in the vaginal microbiome.
• Treating yeast infections: Antifungal suppositories containing ingredients like clotrimazole or miconazole are widely used to clear Candida overgrowth.
• Restoring microbiome balance: Probiotic suppositories deliver beneficial Lactobacillus strains directly to the vaginal environment to support a healthy bacterial balance. Evvy's Vaginal Probiotic Suppositories are formulated specifically for this purpose and can be used alongside antibiotic treatment or for ongoing microbiome maintenance.
• Balancing pH and reducing odor: Boric acid suppositories help restore healthy vaginal pH, particularly in cases of recurrent BV or yeast infections that haven't responded to standard treatments. Evvy's Pure Boric Acid Suppositories are a targeted option for persistent odor and pH imbalance.‍
• Relieving vaginal dryness: Hyaluronic acid suppositories help hydrate and restore the vaginal mucosa, making them particularly useful during perimenopause or postmenopause when declining estrogen causes vaginal atrophy. Evvy's Hyaluronic Acid Suppositories are designed for ongoing comfort and tissue support.

How to use vaginal suppositories

Inserting a vaginal suppository can be done either with your fingers or with a plastic applicator.

Always start with a clean space and make sure you wash your hands with soap and water beforehand — you’re dealing with your vaginal area, so you want to keep things sanitary.

How to insert a suppository with an applicator

Some suppositories are easier to insert into an applicator when refrigerated, as shown in the video demonstration.

Open the suppository packaging and place the supplement into the applicator. Sometimes you can stand up like this and put your leg on a toilet seat or a chair or a table to gently spread your vulva a little bit so that it's easier to insert the applicator (just like a tampon).

Then, slowly press the applicator until the suppository gets into the vaginal canal. Gently remove the applicator and wash it with mild soap and warm water to avoid contamination. 

(If you prefer using an applicator: Dr. Jill Krapf, one of Evvy’s medical advisors, recommends using these ones!)

How to insert a suppository without an applicator

While some suppositories come with a plastic applicator, many (including boric acid and probiotic suppositories) are designed to be inserted with your fingers. It's a straightforward process once you know what you're doing.

Start by washing your hands thoroughly with soap and warm water, then remove the suppository from its packaging. If it feels soft or is starting to melt, run it briefly under cold water or pop it back in the fridge for a few minutes to firm it up (this makes insertion significantly easier).

Then, get into a comfortable position. Lying on your back with knees bent works well for most people, but squatting or standing with one foot raised on a chair is a good alternative. Hold the suppository between your thumb and index finger with the rounded or tapered end pointing away from you, then use your dominant index finger to gently push it into the vaginal opening as far as it can comfortably reach, around two to three inches. Aim towards your lower back rather than straight up to follow the natural angle of the vaginal canal.

Once inserted, wash your hands again, then lie down for at least 15 minutes to allow the suppository time to dissolve and be absorbed properly. Bedtime is ideal because you can let it work overnight without movement or leakage being a concern. 

Best position to insert a vaginal suppository

There's no single "correct" position. The best one is whichever feels most comfortable and gives you the easiest access. The most commonly recommended options are lying on your back with your knees bent and feet flat on the bed, squatting with your knees apart, or standing with one foot raised on a chair or the edge of the bath. Many people find lying down easiest, particularly if it's their first time, as it allows the pelvic floor muscles to relax more naturally.

What to expect during vaginal suppository treatments

It’s helpful to keep in mind when using any vaginal treatments (creams or suppositories) that not all of the medication may be absorbed in your vagina, and you may experience some discharge that is either suppository residue or a byproduct. This is completely normal.

If your menstrual period begins during the treatment, it is recommended to use sanitary pads instead of tampons and continue the treatment as prescribed.

It can also be normal for our bodies to respond to vaginal medications by producing more discharge — this can also be normal. Some people will use a panty liner after they’ve put their suppository in, in case there’s any leakage or extra discharge.

Typical side effects (besides suppository residue or increased discharge) can include mild irritation or itching of the vaginal and vulvar area. 

If you experience any moderate to severe reactions to vaginal suppositories, such as intense burning or irritation, please seek medical attention.

How long does it take for a vaginal suppository to absorb?

They typically take between 10 and 15 minutes to dissolve, and in some cases, up to 30 minutes. Once the suppository dissolves, the ingredients are absorbed into the bloodstream. The absorption of a vaginal suppository depends on various factors, including the type of suppository, active ingredient, vaginal pH, moisture level of the vaginal environment, and the suppository's size and shape. 

General tips for using vaginal suppositories

• Relax: We know that trying a new treatment can be stressful, but the more relaxed you are, the easier the insertion will be!
• Use cold water or the fridge to prevent the suppository from melting: If the suppository starts to melt in your hand, rinse it under cold water for a few seconds to harden it again, or put it back in the fridge for a couple of minutes before insertion.
• Lie down and avoid exercise after insertion: lie down for about 15 minutes after putting the suppository in to allow it to dissolve properly. We recommend using suppositories at bedtime! If you don’t use them at bedtime, try to avoid exercise or excessive movement for approximately one hour after insertion to reduce leakage.‍
• Trim your fingernails: Some people choose to keep them short and rounded to help prevent scratches or cuts.
• Don't use tampons: Don’t use tampons when using a vaginal suppository. Tampons can absorb some of the medication, which can prevent it from working effectively.
• Avoid sex after insertion: Wait until you've completed your course of treatment before having sex. Intercourse can dislodge the suppository before it fully dissolves and absorbs, reducing its effectiveness. In the case of antibiotic or antifungal treatments, it can also disrupt the vaginal environment at a time when it's trying to rebalance.
• Don’t force it: If you feel discomfort inserting the suppository because it feels like you're hitting a wall, it may be a sign of pelvic floor dysfunction, and you may want to be seen by a gynecologist.

FAQs about vaginal suppositories 

How to use a vaginal suppository? 

Wash your hands thoroughly with warm, soapy water. Remove the suppository from its packaging, and if it's soft, you can chill it in the refrigerator or run it under cold water to make it firmer. Lie down on your back with your knees bent and legs slightly apart, or stand with one leg raised on a chair — choose whatever position feels most comfortable. Gently insert the suppository into your vagina using either your finger or an applicator if provided, pushing it in as far as it comfortably goes. After insertion, remain lying down to help prevent the suppository from slipping out. Wash your hands again and avoid strenuous activity for a while to allow the suppository to dissolve properly.

How long should you remain lying down after using a vaginal suppository? 

It depends on the type of suppository, but it’s generally good to lie down for 10 to 15 minutes (or longer, if possible) to allow the vaginal suppository to dissolve and be absorbed properly. Lying down helps the suppository stay in place and prevents it from being expelled or leaking out before it dissolves and releases the medication into the vaginal canal. We’d recommend following the instructions on the medication leaflet if you’re unsure.

Can I pee after inserting a suppository? 

Yes, you can pee after inserting a suppository because suppositories go inside the vaginal canal (not the urethra). That said, we’d recommend peeing beforehand, so you can lie down and give the suppository time to dissolve completely and absorb without leaking out. 

Is it safe to insert a vaginal suppository?

Yes, when used as directed and for the right condition, vaginal suppositories are safe. The most important step before using any suppository (prescription or over-the-counter) is knowing what's actually going on in your vaginal microbiome. Using the wrong treatment can disrupt your vaginal bacterial balance and make things worse, which is why testing before treating is always recommended.

When is the best time to insert a suppository?

Bedtime is the best time to insert a vaginal suppository. Lying down overnight gives the suppository the longest possible window to dissolve and absorb fully without leaking out. If you need to use one during the day, try to lie down for at least 15 minutes afterward and avoid exercise or strenuous activity for at least an hour.

What do vaginal suppositories do?

Vaginal suppositories deliver active ingredients, such as antibiotics, antifungals, probiotics, boric acid, or hyaluronic acid, directly to the vaginal tissue. Because they bypass the digestive system and act locally, they tend to work faster and more efficiently than oral alternatives for conditions like BV, yeast infections, vaginal dryness, and pH imbalance.

How do you know if you inserted a suppository correctly?

If inserted correctly, you shouldn't feel the suppository at all once it's in place. If you can feel it or it feels uncomfortable, it likely hasn't gone in far enough, so try pushing it a little deeper on your next attempt. Some discharge or residue afterward is completely normal and just means it's dissolving as intended.