How to Use Boric Acid Suppositories

Boric acid suppositories might not sound glamorous, but they’re a trusted ally for many when it comes to supporting vaginal health. 

If you’ve heard the buzz about boric acid but aren’t quite sure what it’s all about, you’re in the right place. Here, we’ll break down how to use boric acid suppositories, including what you need to know to ensure safe and effective use.

What are boric acid vaginal suppositories used for?

Boric acid is a naturally occurring compound with antifungal and antibacterial properties. When formulated as a vaginal suppository, it’s used to treat recurring or stubborn vaginal infections, such as yeast infections or bacterial vaginosis (BV). 

When conventional treatments like antifungals or antibiotics don’t work, your healthcare provider might recommend boric acid suppositories to treat yeast infections or BV.

Boric acid suppositories work by restoring a healthy vaginal pH, providing relief from symptoms like vaginal odor and unusual discharge. It’s important to note that boric acid suppositories aren’t meant to replace standard treatments but are often recommended as a complementary option by healthcare providers. 

Unlike the boric acid available over the counter, Evvy’s Pure Boric Acid Suppositories are prescription-grade and formulated under controlled conditions in a 503a NABP-accredited pharmacy to ensure quality.

How to insert boric acid suppositories

Inserting boric acid vaginal suppositories is simple, but there are a few key steps to ensure you’re doing it right:

1. Prepare: Wash your hands thoroughly before handling the suppository.
2. Insert: Insert the suppository into your vagina using your finger or an applicator if provided. This is best done at bedtime to allow the suppository to dissolve overnight without leakage. We recommend wearing a panty liner overnight and the next morning, to catch any discharge as the suppository dissolves.
3. Repeat as needed: Follow the dosing instructions provided by your healthcare provider or on the product packaging. Typically, this involves inserting one suppository daily for seven to fourteen days, depending on the severity of your symptoms. Store the suppositories in a cool, dry place to prevent them from melting.

You should avoid having sexual intercourse while taking boric acid suppositories. Having sex while using boric acid could cause irritation (for both you and your partner), make the treatment less effective, and break down condoms. We’re not just talking about penetrative sex — you should abstain from receiving oral sex too, since your partner could accidentally ingest the boric acid. 

Never, ever ingest boric acid, as it can be toxic when swallowed. Call poison control if you accidentally swallow a boric acid suppository. 

How long does boric acid take to dissolve? 

A boric acid suppository typically takes about 30 minutes to an hour to fully dissolve once inserted into the vagina. The exact time can vary based on factors such as your body temperature, vaginal moisture levels, and the specific formulation of the suppository. If you insert a boric acid vaginal suppository before going to bed, it should be fully dissolved by the morning. 

How often can you use boric acid?

The duration of use depends on your specific condition. For most cases, a seven to fourteen-day regimen is sufficient. However, some people with recurrent vaginal infections may need to use boric acid as a maintenance treatment (usually one suppository weekly for several months) under the guidance of their healthcare provider. Evvy’s Pure Boric Acid Suppositories should be used once daily for at least three consecutive days. 

Can you use boric acid during the day?

Yes, you can use boric acid suppositories during the day (and many women do). The key is making sure you’re comfortable and prepared, especially since boric acid dissolves inside the vagina and can cause some discharge. If you’re using it during the day, just pop one in (clean hands, of course), and wear a liner to catch any residue.

We get a lot of questions about the best time to use our Pure Boric Acid Suppositories, and while nighttime is a popular choice (less movement and you’re already lying down), daytime use is totally fine too. It really comes down to your routine and comfort level. Whether you're headed to work, running errands, or just chilling at home, daytime use can still give you all the same benefits.

Can you use boric acid twice a day or daily?

Vaginal boric acid suppositories can be used twice daily in certain cases, but this isn’t the norm and should only be considered under the guidance of a healthcare provider. Most commonly, boric acid is used to treat recurrent yeast infections (vulvovaginal candidiasis, or VVC) and BV, especially when those infections aren’t responding to standard treatments. In these situations, the typical dosage is 600 mg inserted vaginally once a day for 14 days. 

Twice-daily use does pop up in very specific scenarios. For example, there’s a case report involving multidrug-resistant trichomoniasis where 600 mg was used intravaginally twice a day for three months with success. But again, this kind of regimen should only be done with close medical supervision, because the risks and potential side effects increase with more frequent use.

Speaking of side effects, taking boric acid more than once daily can raise your risk of experiencing things like vaginal irritation, a burning sensation, redness, or watery discharge, which have been reported in up to 10% of cases. And while rare, there’s also a risk of systemic toxicity if large amounts are absorbed, which can lead to nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and even skin irritation. Boric acid should never be used during pregnancy due to a lack of safety data in that population.

The bottom line is that once-daily use, like what’s recommended with Evvy’s Pure Boric Acid Suppositories, is generally safe and effective for most women dealing with recurring VVC or BV. If you’re considering using them more frequently, definitely check in with your doctor first. Your vaginal health is important, and so is staying safe while managing it.

Side effects to look out for

While boric acid is generally safe when used as directed, some people may experience mild side effects. These can include:

• Vaginal itching or burning
• Redness or irritation in or around the vagina and vulva
• A “gritty” sensation in the vagina
• Watery discharge.

If you experience severe discomfort, swelling, or an allergic reaction, discontinue use immediately and consult a doctor. 

When to see a healthcare provider

It’s always wise to loop in your primary case physician before starting a new treatment, especially if you’re dealing with recurrent or severe symptoms. See a healthcare provider if:

• Your symptoms persist after completing a full course of boric acid suppositories
• You experience severe side effects or unusual symptoms
• You’re unsure if boric acid is the right option for you.

Additionally, boric acid suppositories are not recommended if you’re pregnant or breastfeeding. Your doctor can help you find alternative treatments that are safe for you and your baby.

FAQ

How long do you keep a boric acid suppository in? 

Boric acid suppositories are designed to dissolve and work over several hours, typically while you sleep. When you insert a boric acid suppository at bedtime, it will naturally dissolve overnight, so you don’t need to remove it in the morning. Evvy’s Pure Boric Acid Suppositories can provide relief from symptoms like odor and discomfort in just a few days of regular use. Just keep in mind that everyone’s experience may be a little different. To get the best results, be sure to follow Evvy's recommended usage.

How do you use boric acid for the first time?

Start by washing your hands well. Then, take the suppository out of its packaging and gently insert it into your vagina using your finger or an applicator (if provided). It’s a good idea to do this before bedtime since lying down will help the suppository dissolve properly and prevent any watery leakage from staining your underwear. You might want to wear a panty liner just in case there’s some discharge overnight. Be sure to follow the dosing instructions on the label or any advice from your doctor. And if you have any questions or concerns, don’t hesitate to reach out to a professional. Remember: never swallow a boric acid suppository!

What not to do after inserting boric acid?

Try to avoid sexual intercourse right after inserting a boric suppository, as this can cause discomfort and might lessen its effectiveness. It's also best to skip oral sex during this time, since your partner could accidentally ingest some of the boric acid, which can be toxic. Additionally, it’s a good practice to avoid using tampons until you've finished the full course of treatment, as they can soak up the medication and keep it from spreading fully in the vagina. Steering clear of douching or other vaginal products is wise too, unless your healthcare provider has given you the go-ahead. This way, you can let the suppository do its job overnight without any interruptions for the best results.

What comes out when you use boric acid suppositories?

When you use boric acid suppositories, it’s completely normal to notice a watery or slightly chalky discharge as the suppository dissolves and releases its active ingredients. This discharge is just a mix of the suppository and vaginal fluid, and it can vary in texture and amount from person to person, depending on how much boric acid you used. To keep things comfortable, you might want to wear a panty liner, especially if you insert the suppository at bedtime, since the discharge could continue into the next morning. If you ever notice that the discharge has an unusual color or smell, or if it causes any significant discomfort, it’s always a good idea to reach out to a healthcare professional just to make sure everything's okay.

How to insert boric acid suppositories without an applicator?

Hold the vaginal suppository between your fingers with the tapered ends towards you. Gently insert the suppository into your vagina using your index finger. Aim towards your lower back rather than straight up, and insert the suppository as far as your finger can comfortably reach.

What happens if you don’t put boric acid up far enough?

If you don’t insert a boric acid suppository far enough into the vagina, you might feel some mild burning, redness, and irritation at the vaginal opening. You might also experience leakage quicker than usual, or the suppository might fall out before it has a chance to melt. 

How far up should a boric acid suppository go?

Typically, boric acid suppositories should be inserted approximately 1 inch deep in the vaginal canal.