Using Boric Acid for BV or Yeast Infections: Safety, Effectiveness, and Side Effects

Used since ancient times and originating from volcanic areas, boric acid is still widely recommended today for a series of different affections. While not fully researched, boric acid is somewhere between holistic therapies and scientific treatments, offering relief from numerous problems.

As you research your options, you’ll also realize that boric acid is recommended for d, such as yeast infections. This being said, let’s take a look at what it is, how it works, and what it can do for vaginal problems. So, what do boric acid pills do?

1. What’s Boric Acid?

Boric acid is relatively mild. Over history, it’s been used as an antiseptic, so it was mostly given for wounds, cuts and other skin issues. However, it was also used to preserve food in times when people didn’t have access to electricity or technology. Its mild antifungal and antiviral properties are what make it interesting for recurrent vaginal infections.

Made of boron, oxygen and hydrogen, boric acid is normally found as a powder, but you can also find pills, small crystals or other forms. It dissolves in water and apart from antiseptic abilities, it’s also used in industrial applications.

When it comes to vaginal problems, boric acid is usually recommended against bacterial vaginosis (BV), yeast infections and trichomoniasis.

It is especially mentioned in guidelines as an option for recurrent or non-albicans yeast infections that do not respond well to common antifungal creams or tablets.

1. Using Boric Acid for BV

BV is caused by too much bacterial activity in the vaginal area. It’s basically an unhealthy imbalance between good and bad bacteria. While it’s normally defined by consistent discharge, it may also cause discomfort and painful sensations.

The vaginal pH usually becomes more alkaline in BV, and boric acid can help acidify the environment again, which supports healthy bacteria. 

Boric acid is often used as an alternative or complementary option when antibiotics, probiotics, or other supplements are not enough. Antibiotics can be effective, but they may also come with side effects, while probiotics may work best when used consistently and at the right time. For more guidance, you can read our guide on the best time to take vaginal probiotics.

Boric acid is a middle option between antibiotics and holistic therapies.

2. Using Boric Acid for Yeast Infections

There are more types of yeast infections and they’re all caused by excessive levels of yeast in the vaginal area. They’re usually characterized by discomfort, whether it’s caused by itching sensations or swelling. Vaginal discharge and pain may also occur.

Normally, a form of yeast is naturally found in the vagina as well. However, like other vaginal issues, an imbalance between bacteria is usually responsible for the affection.

Modern treatments are based on antifungal drugs. They can be both oral and topical. What do boric acid pills do for yeast infections? Normally, these treatments are seen as alternative solutions. They’re often given when the infection keeps coming back.

2. What to Know Before Taking Boric Acid Pills

Like other similar treatments, boric acid pills shouldn’t be taken by ear. Indeed, there are quite a few products out there, each with its unique characteristics and recommendations. Here’s what you need to know before taking boric acid.

• Talk to your doctor first. Make sure you contact your healthcare provider upfront, especially if you’re already taking a different treatment for such problems. Besides, a doctor is also required if you have any underlying health problems or if the infection is recurrent.
• Stick to professional products. Boric acid is quite toxic when taken orally. That’s why you’re more likely to find it in suppository form. Basically, it’s introduced in the vagina, so the effects are local. Pills are modern and adopt a different approach, but they also go into the vagina.
• Avoid boric acid pills if you’re pregnant. If you’re breastfeeding, it can be passed to the baby. Research isn’t conclusive yet, so avoid it. People with heart conditions or a poor immune system may also face side effects, hence the necessity to see a doctor first.

3. FAQs

Still unsure about boric acid pills? Here are a few concerns and common questions. Remember that the answers below are general and never replace personal advice from your own healthcare professional.

1. How long until you can see results?

When given or recommended by a doctor, boric acid pills can provide results within a day only. Of course, it depends on what kind of infection you suffer from. It’s also important to understand that different people react to boric acid in different ways. Plus, how severe your problem is will also affect the treatment.

2. Are there any side effects of boric acid?

When taking boric acid, some potential side effects may include gastrointestinal issues, like nausea, even if not taken orally. Other than that, most side effects tend to be local, but they’re usually mild to moderate. You may experience redness, burning sensations or even a watery discharge.

3. Is boric acid treatment new?

No. Boric acid has been used for thousands of years for different purposes. When it comes to vaginal problems, boric acid has been given for more than 100 years already, so it should be safe when recommended by a healthcare provider.

Bottom line: What do boric acid pills do? Similar to the suppositories (the more common form), boric acid pills can work wonders against some vaginal infections. Like other medical treatments, boric acid should be given by a doctor, so make sure to inquire about it, rather than take it by ear.