Boric Acid for Recurrent Vaginitis
- 10 hours ago
- 2 min read
Complete Healthcare
Boric Acid Vaginal Suppositories
What is boric acid?
Boric acid is a vaginal suppository that may be recommended for certain types of recurrent vaginal infections, especially recurrent or resistant yeast infections. It may also be used as part of a treatment plan for recurrent bacterial vaginosis (BV).
Boric acid is not used by mouth. It is for vaginal use only.
Why was boric acid recommended?
Your provider may recommend boric acid if you have:
Recurrent yeast infections
Yeast that does not respond well to usual medications
Non-albicans yeast, such as Candida glabrata
Recurrent BV as part of a longer treatment plan
For recurrent non-albicans yeast infections, CDC guidance lists boric acid 600 mg vaginally once daily for 3 weeks when symptoms recur after other treatments. This regimen has about a 70% clinical and laboratory eradication rate.
How to use boric acid
Usual dose: Insert one 600 mg boric acid suppository vaginally at bedtime.
Your provider will tell you how many nights to use it. Common treatment courses include:
14 nights for some recurrent yeast treatment plans
21 nights for recurrent non-albicans yeast or recurrent BV protocols
For recurrent BV, boric acid is usually used after or along with antibiotic treatment, not as the only treatment. CDC guidance includes a recurrent BV option using oral metronidazole or tinidazole, followed by boric acid 600 mg vaginally at bedtime for 21 days, followed by suppressive metronidazole vaginal gel twice weekly for 4 to 6 months.
How to insert the suppository
Wash your hands.
Insert the suppository into the vagina at bedtime.
Wear a panty liner, since watery discharge is common.
Wash your hands again after insertion.
Use exactly as directed.
Important safety instructions
Do not swallow boric acid. Boric acid can be dangerous or toxic if taken by mouth.
Keep away from children and pets.
Do not use boric acid if you are pregnant, may be pregnant, or are trying to become pregnant unless specifically instructed by your provider. For yeast infections during pregnancy, the CDC recommends topical azole therapy for 7 days.
Possible side effects
Some patients may notice:
Watery vaginal discharge
Mild burning
Vaginal irritation
Redness or discomfort
Stop using boric acid and call the office if you develop:
Severe burning or pain
Vaginal bleeding
Rash or swelling
Pelvic pain
Fever
Worsening odor or discharge
Symptoms that do not improve
During treatment
Avoid vaginal irritants, including:
Douching
Scented soaps
Vaginal sprays
Scented tampons or pads
Unnecessary vaginal products
You may be advised to avoid intercourse during treatment, especially if irritation is present.
When to call the office
Call the office if:
Symptoms return quickly after treatment
You have pelvic pain, fever, or bleeding
You are pregnant or think you may be pregnant
You have a new sexual partner or concern for STI exposure
Symptoms do not match your usual infection
You have used several treatments without improvement
Recurrent vaginitis should be properly tested because yeast, BV, trichomonas, irritation, skin conditions, and low-estrogen changes can cause similar symptoms.
Complete Healthcare - Obstetrics and Gynecology
509-392-6700