107 User Reviews
★★★☆☆
BETTER BUT WITH SIDE EFFECTS
I'm trying the boric acid again, I was going to do a 10 day treatment this time, but does anyone have any side effects? I notice my whole body is itchy after using the BA.
(Sf, Ca)
08/08/2015
You should not have any itching from using boric acid capsules in your vagina. I have been using them for about 2-3 years for BV (there is NO cure, only maintenance). If this is your first outbreak of BV then you need to use the capsules every night for 10 nights. Then see how you feel and taper down to every 3-4 nights unless you feel that "feeling" coming back. Boric Acid will not harm you internally but you don't want to get it on your external skin or inhale it. Wash your hands immediately after making your capsules or use rubber gloves. It is a miracle maintenance substance for BV and nothing else helped me. I tried everything under the sun for 6 years and boric acid capsules are a staple in my kitchen cupboard to stay. I also make my own and use about one a week now just to maintain vaginal pH balance. It is really all about alkalizing and keeping a balanced pH in all parts of your body, which really is a full time job. Try drinking pH bottled water with at least a pH level of 8.5 or higher. It has made a world of difference for me. If you drink a little every day you won't even need boric acid after awhile. Life will be good again. Good Luck!!
(Escondido)
08/23/2015
I've been using boric acid (tonight is night six) and I'm still so itchy on the outside!! Did you have issues with being itchy externally? I feel fine on he inside, it's just the outside (my pee hole Sorry tmi!! )
(Florida)
09/25/2015
If you are itching like crazy on the outside even after using boric acid, it sounds as though you have a yeast infection rather than a bacterial infection. Try Monostat for that.
(Canada)
03/10/2016
Hi Natasha. I'm on my 2d Boric Acid treatment. I noticed that I do have itchiness all over my body too. I also noticed the discharge they were talking about while using BA inserts. It's kind of uncomfortable ( I didn't have any discharge nor foul smell) since when my liner will get wet, that area will get so itchy and feels like ants walking around it - makes it soooo itchy. A bit of relief when I change my undies and liner. But I have to do it a lot of times. Good thing I'm not working at the moment. But I don't know how it will be possible when we're out there in public. So, you're not alone in feeling itchy over your body while using this. Just make sure to watch out for it - maybe you have some allergic reaction starting there. I'm also trying to monitor it myself. Good luck.
(Brooklyn, Ny)
09/29/2016
I have been having the same issue. There is no smell, only the discharge from the BA, but the itching is so intense at times that I want scream! I've even had my boyfriend get a flashlight and go looking to see if something else was going on down there.
Boric Acid
★★★★★
I tried so many different holistic remedies and antibiotics. Nothing worked until I stopped using condoms which I assume contained spermicide. Spermicide contains nonoxynol-9, which is a "surfactant/detergent" anddangerous to your vaginal membranes. I would rid myself of BV, then 3-4 days after having sex, it would come back. I noticed the pattern and stopped using them. I did a 12 night regimen of boric acid suppositories - 1 per night right before bed. I made them myself by buying the empty capsules and boric acid powder from a pharmacy. I filled each capsule a little more than halfway. You need to get these pills as far up as possible - the infection is in your cervix and sticking them up with your fingers does not reach the infected area. I reused an applicator from a failed attempt with VH Essentials from Rite Aid. YOU HAVE TO SANITIZE THE APPLICATOR EVERY TIME YOU USE IT - BEFORE AND AFTER TO BE SAFE. I used hydrogen peroxide to clean it.
I took probiotics during the 12 night regimen. I have stopped using tampons and definitely no more diva cup. Pads only from here on out. I stay away from wearing hose, tight pants, and only wear cotton underwear. I don't wear panties to bed anymore so my vagina can air out. I limit time in a bathing suit.
Another thing that was not helping was that I had horrible acid reflux and heartburn around that time with BV. An acidic environment is perfect for infections to take hold. If you have BV, the PH balance of your vagina is off. I felt that these went hand in hand and have since remedied both my acidic issues and BV.
I hope this information helps. BV is a terribly difficult infection to rid your body of. I got to some low points. Stick in there and don't give up.
(Hnl)
06/30/2015
Just a wee note regarding the pH comment: BV actually loves an alkline environment, so having a more acidic vaginal pH is preferred for good vaginal health (around 4). The good flora in the vaginal tract create hydrogen peroxide which helps to keep the vaginal pH appropriate--Boric Acid does much the same...
(Ca)
03/04/2016
★★★★☆
I've had yeast infections and BV off and on for a few years now. I have been to the doctor a few times for it and taken antibiotics and over the counter pharmaceuticals. Boric acid has worked for me although I don't know that I would recommend using it daily for an extended period of time because studies have not been done on long term effects.
Another thing I have used for BV and yeast infections are what I like to call "p---y pops". You freeze some yogurt in plastic wrap (generally the shape of a tampon, but don't make them too large, I have experienced a vaginal freeze and it's not that fun) and then when it's frozen you stick it up there and let it thaw. The cold sooths any itch and burning and yogurt has acidophilous and other probiotics that can help bring the balance back too. It has to be real, unpasteurized, live culture, plain yogurt, none of that yoplait crap.
While there are cases of yeast infections and bv where there is a foreign species at play, almost always, the problem is caused by the good, natural yeast and bacteria that you WANT inside your body. The problem occurs when the environment changes and the ratios of yeast to bacteria get out of wack. Too much bacteria is BV and too much yeast is a yeast infection. The most common cause of this imbalance is a change in pH. Your vagina is supposed to be acidic. Probably why the boric acid helps with BV. I have also read a scientific study testing it against unnatural yeast strain infections as well(found effective).
Boric acid is a great, cheap, at home remedy. But remember boric acid is poison if ingested orally so make sure you you keep those capsules well labelled and out of reach of children.
(Raleigh, Nc)
09/08/2017
Since you and your BF might be passing this back and forth I would recommend that he use Tea Tree Oil every time he showers on his private area. It shouldn't irritate him, but everyone is different. Might be a cooling sensation. All he would need is one drop to rub between his hands, apply and rinse. That may help with any bacteria he could be carrying on the outside.
I have also had success with boric acid/coconut oil/probiotic suppositories. I had BV about 2.5 years ago and used these and they knocked it out. Here is the recipe I used:
1/2 Cup coconut oil - melted on the stove in a glass measuring cup (put in a pot of water)
2 tsp of boric acid
1 capsule of whatever probiotic you use.
Melt the CO oil, add the boric acid and open the capsule of probiotics and pour into the measuring cup. Mix well. Pour into a mold and refrigerate/freeze. I found a plastic case that holds eggs and poured mine into one half of the case. So it made little half moons. I cut the half moons into quarter moons and insert one in the morning and one at night for 2 wks.
I hope this helps.
Boric Acid
★★★★★
(Escondido)
08/15/2015
Yes!!! That's me! I feel like there is no light at the end of the tunnel! I've tried everything! So today I went and got my boric acid tablets. I'll be starting my first day tonight before bed. Wish me luck. This is my last hope. If these don't work I'm pretty sure I'm screwed!
(Houston, Tx)
10/17/2015
Can you still have sex with inserting the pills?
(Berkeley)
10/23/2015
★★★★★
I have been struggling with BV for about a year now and the boric acid pills really help. I had unprotected sex with my bf and I inserted a pill the night before we saw each other and one right after we had sex. Everything seems to be in order and I haven't had to put another pill in for about a week now. I also use an exterior vaginal shampoo everyday, it's supposed to help maintain the vaginal PH levels. You may also try nonfat plain greek yogurt and that seems to help too due to the probiotics. You can insert it directly into the vagina and eating it helps too!
(Dallas)
01/04/2018
My boyfriend complains it burns a bit for him after sex, I'm sure cause it says it causes slight burning in the vaginal walls, so it's going in his hole as well, when I use it cause he's sensative and we don't know what to do when this boric acid is the only cure for me! Probably condoms!
Boric Acid
★★★★★
She gave me 14. I did inserted them nightly for 10 days and used one after every sexual encounter. It was GREAT until I ran out. My doc gave me 3 refills thankfully. I realized I wasn't fully cured after the first 14 doses. I refilled them and now I only use them after sex. So far things have been going well. I'm hoping that once I use up all of the refills that I don't have to call her back up for more. Hopefully things are going back to normal. Here's hoping!! :)
(Council Bluffs Iowa)
06/17/2015
You can buy 00 capsules and powdered Boric Acid on Amazon and make your own!!
Boric Acid
★★★★★
(Cali)
09/21/2015
How often did you do the Boric Acid treatments for BV?
(Ri)
09/22/2016
hey there... You HAVE to dilute the boric acid solution before you insert it because it is extremely strong on its own. You are causing damage to the tissues in your hoo ha if you don't! 😊
Boric Acid
★★★★★
This is what I recommend to those of you struggling with this hideous condition..
Preparation:
- 1. Order 100% boric acid or medical grade boric acid (it's the same thing but called different things in different places) AND 00 Veg capsules. In Australia, simply order both of these on Ebay. I believe in the US, you can ask your pharmacy to order them for you or try Amazon.
- 2. With clean hands, simply fill the larger side of the capsule with the boric acid and then use the smaller side as the lid. Make up as many as you like - they last for months and months. Store them in a glass jar in your pantry and keep capsules and all ingredients out of reach of the little ones.
- 3. Buy pads - do NOT wear tampons during this treatment.
The Regimen
- Start your treatment on your next period.
- On the first night of your period, (and with clean hands) insert 2 capsules just before you go to bed.
- For the next 5 nights, insert one capsule just before you go to bed.
- Do this treatment for the next 3 periods (4 periods in total).
- You may notice increased wetness as the capsules make their way out - completely normal. You may even find bits of the capsule - also normal.
Ongoing treatment:
- After completing your 4 month treatment, you can cut back to inserting one capsule, usually on the last night of your period. As before, wear a pad that night and during the next day, but tampons on the other days should be fine. I believe wearing tampons overnight is not a good idea, but up to you.
- Supplements and diet are completely up to you - I don't know what exacerbates BV, but it can't hurt to eat healthier.
Tips:
- Always insert the capsule just before you go to bed. You want it to stay in for as long as possible.
- Just before inserting the capsule, I like to hold the capsule under running water for about 20 seconds to soften the 'skin'.
- Insert the capsule as far as you can. I don't think applicators are necessary, it's a personal preference.
Best of luck to you!
Bron
(Allentown Pa)
10/29/2015
So here's my story....it all started when I took birth control for the first time ever.. I took it for maybe 15 days and got my first uti ever, so I am a superstitious person and thought it was from the bc. therefore I stopped right then and there. then I got a yeast infection from the uti medication. and from then its been hell.....i went from yeast to bv straight for almost 9 months now.. without a break.. all that's been on my mind is my vagina.. it makes me so depressed and self conscious that all I do is wear sweatpants. got rid of all my jeans. I just hate this.. I wish nobody would ever have to go through this. I feel like I'm the only person in the world until I read these forums posted by other people going through the same thing. I really pray to god that we all get cured. because NOBODY should ever have to go through this. I wouldn't even wish it on my worst enemy.. this is a complete nightmare. it truly is.... I pray these boric acid capsules work. because I am at my wits end....i just cannot deal with this anymore.........i just pray this works......
(Texas)
06/17/2016
Hello,
Thank you for sharing your info. My question is though, do you only insert the capsules on your period days and not on any of the days in between? I've heard of several different ways, but if that way worked for you, I'm hoping it will work for me too. Thanks again, Nora
Boric Acid
★★★★☆
(Canada)
04/26/2015
★★★☆☆
WORKED TEMPORARILY
I couldn't agree with you more. The boric acid was wonderful for me. I would do the same thing, pretty much use it every day...However, I started bleeding every time I'd use it, like it would cause a full blown period, and my gynecologist couldn't give me answers (he'd say, well, ya know...it's an alternative treatment, I don't know much about it bla bla bla). I didn't feel irritated or anything...I'd just use one suppository at night... I'm going to try coconut oil capsules, I heard they work great, I tried them a while back but they weren't that effective...*sigh* the boric acid suppositories are the best thing for bv hands down!
(La)
04/30/2015
★★★☆☆
BETTER BUT WITH SIDE EFFECTS
I make them myself...instead of scooping the powder into the capsule, pack it by taking the capsule and pressing it down on a plate of powder. You'll get more powder in the capsule that way. Start off by inserting 1 capsule at bedtime for the first 3 nights, then use it every other night for a few weeks. I also use it to cleanse the vagina and stay fresh, but I use it every other day. The only side effect I've had was bleeding. I'm not sure exactly what is causing the bleeding...the boric acid itself or the capsules. Does anyone else experience bleeding too? Thanks to everyone for your comments!
(New York)
11/29/2016
Rose Canada - I have the same problem once in a while when I use the Boric Acid. I get my period full blown even when I am not due. I am on birth control to and am usually regular. I was using 300mg before and switched to 600mg I wonder if it is too strong for me. Anyone else have this problem? The Boric Acid is the only thing that has helped me with chronic BV and yeast.
Thanks!!
Boric Acid
★★★★★
Boric Acid
I have an appt for feb 5 but I feel like I am going to go insane before then...
HELP! I am worried I don't have BV after all.
(Prince George, Canada)
01/29/2015
I just finally saw a gynecologist yesterday after being referred a year ago. I have been dealing with this issue for 14 years!!! All along, treating it like yeast as every doctor has told me it is. It would constantly come back. I've treated my husband, I decided it was an estrogen deficiency, I decided it was vulvodynia. I was desperate. Yesterday, I was told that BV tests are often nonspecific and that it's probably what I have had the entire time. I am supposed to start the boric acid pills as soon as my pharmacy can get them in. I'm excited to start and hope that it will help, but she did tell me I would be using them twice a week for probably the rest of my life. I am scheduled for a hysterectomy in June and she did say that I might notice the symptoms disappear after my period is no longer a problem but we'll see.
(Philly, PA)
02/10/2015
BV is caused by a pH imbalance. "treating" your husband is not going to do anything. It's his semen. Semen ph level is 7.1-8, the vagina's pH has to be about a 3.5-4; anything higher causes problems. Your cycle can cause the same problem. Blood during your cycle is about a 7 which....will cause a problem.
Boric Acid
It is a little known fact that doctors don't want you to know about. I have been using boric acid capsules for years with no side effects. You have to stay on top of the BV 24/7/365. I can't go more than 1-2 days without inserting a capsule vaginally. I usually do it Sun-Thurs, and Fri-Sat I am with my boyfriend and everything is nice and clean and smells great and NO discharge or disgusting smell. I buy boric acid online (Amazon) as well as vegetable based capsules and sit right on my living room floor one night a month and make mass quantities of these things. Insert on capsule vaginally before bedtime (you need to be lying down so it can melt inside you and kill the bacteria) and the next morning wear a panty liner because the melted capsule contents will leak out.
It smells nice and fresh and there is no taste or side effects to your partner (if you know what I mean). Interestingly enough, the capsules keep your vagina nice and lubricated so if you have issues with dryness, this will certainly help you with that too. This has saved my life and my sex life as well. Boric acid is roach killer by the way. I was terrified to try it the first time, but I also was so exhausted of dealing with BV, so the chances of this working were worth my fears. It is the only thing that has worked for me so far and I am prepared to use this for the rest of my life. I am more than glad to answer your questions. I know there are several postings on here regarding boric acid capsules for BV. This is a horrible thing to have and to live with, but if you can stay on top of the bacteria you will be much happier and it does not take much effort. Cutting back on sugar and caffeine helps just a little bit......not much, but some. Good luck everyone!!!!!
(Indpls, IN)
01/09/2015
I use boric acid also, and it too has saved my life, I love it! However I belong to a online support group and someone told me that the boric acid also kills the good flora, is this true. I thought it balanced everything out.
(Omaha, Ne)
01/11/2015
★★★★☆
I have been fighting BV (Bacterial Vaginosis) for over 2 years. I went through a full hysterectomy over 4 years ago so I no longer have monthly cycles and I thought that was the reason. I went to my Family Physician who put me on Flagyl for over 6 months and the test results kept coming back positive for BV. I was then referred to a Gynecologist that put me on Metronidazole gel month after month For 6 months and still the test showed positive for BV. I was then referred to a Urologist. It was then I was introduced to Boric Acid. I explains the frustration of 2 full years of treatments with no cured results. I have been using Boric Acid suppositories now for 3 months and still test positive for BV and I have not been sexually active in over 5 Months. The Urologist states that it may never go away or be cured but I will tell you the Boric Acid Suppositories sure do make life much easier! My Pharmacy makes the compound for me each month for $29.00. I insert each night before bed and it's melts quickly with no smell, no discomfort and no side effects. I use mine 21 straight days then I take the rest of the month off. Begin again on the following 1st of the month. It must be refrigerated at all times But so worth it!!
(Bi, Hawaii)
01/11/2015
Aloha, Rs
The boric acid caps sound amazing. BUT, I need to tell you about the veggie caps you're using. Although veggie based - please understand that in the process of making them - there is NO WAY the manufacturer can produce them without using certain lubricants that's carcinogenic. When you get capsules - look for KOSHER BOVINE capsules. They are safer than the veggie type - minus the carcinogenic lubricant. I am not a health practitioner/naturopath - I just do my homework. Wishing you well...Lindsey
(Ct)
01/14/2015
How do you figure out how much powder to fill in the "00" capsules?
(Sf)
01/14/2015
Hi,
I make my own boric acid capsules and use "00" vegetable/gelatin capsules. I fill them up with as much powder as I can. They are not all the same size by the time I finish making a batch, but that is ok. The most important thing is to start using them ASAP. What I found is that some days I use a larger capsule if I feel my BV starting to creep back and as the week goes on I start using the smaller capsules. It just worked out that way and is not intentional. Practice making your capsules. You cant mess up and you cant use too much powder...............this pretty much saved my love life, sex life, and general well-being. Good luck!!
(Sf)
01/14/2015
In regards to boric acid capsules killing our good bacteria, I have not found that to be true, but I do eat yogurt daily which I am sure helps a bit.....real yogurt. Knowing that there is no cure for BV and trying everything recommended on this site with short term success made me desperate to try this and I cant tell you how happy I am.
And THANK YOU to the kind woman that told me to use bovine capsules. I will try that for sure. The capsules that I use dont entirely dissolve and little pieces do come out occasionally. Only I can tell, my boyfriend does not notice.
(Dfw)
02/06/2015
Hello, I also have been battling BV since I had my son 5 years ago!! I have tried everything and have spend tons of money on doctor visits and lab tests! I'm am over this! I hear nothing but great things about Boric Acid capsules, I asked my PCP to write me a script so I could get them through my pharmacy, but he was not comfortable in prescribing this because he did not know much about it. Ugh!! I feel like I'm at my wits end and I'm full of frustration! I suppose I could make my own capsules and order the stuff from Amazon. Did any of you ladies who tried the boric acid capsules experience extra dryness or a yeast infection from the capsules? How often is too much to use? Any side effects?
(New York, US)
02/26/2015
Hi all, I currently have an IUD (Mirena) and its been in for about 4 months, my BV is out of control. I took all types of treatments for it metrogel and tindamax. My next step is going to be boric acid. Do you think I should remove the IUD? I don't know what to do and my GYN isn't being so helpful in the situation!
(Walnut Creek, Ca)
05/27/2015
Like so many of you I have suffered through years of BV. I first got it when I was a virgin and I am now 40. It is hell. If a man had to walk around with smelly discharge coming from his penis..there would be a cure... So I am sooo appreciative of all you sharing your stories and cures and what works and doesn't for you. I just started the Boric Acid last night. So far, discharge but no odor. Will keep ya posted. :D
(Gulf Coast)
06/21/2015
I stumbled upon this site while looking up safety of using boric acid around pets and I was very surprised something generally thought of as a toxin could be used in such a delicate area for the treatment of these conditions. I had a problem with yeast and BV when I was younger, but not so much anymore. I think fewer partners, no douching or pantyhose (like we all wore in the 80's) helped. I also make it a habit to go urinate after any sexual activity. I am glad to know some of you have found relief using this treatment. My son told me he thought periods were gross. I asked him how he thought women felt? We try and be all pretty and girly and sometimes there's a freak show going on down there. He laughed. But it is maddening how sensitive that area is for us and how many things can affect our reproductive health. Men have it way to easy.
(Alabama)
11/19/2016
Hey Kristen - I started having BV when I got my IUD placed, and eventually had it taken out after 8 months, and switched to NuvaRing. I then got BV once on the nuvaring, but it was less severe than when I had the IUD. My doctor finally prescribed boric acid. I'm supposed to do it for 21 days, and I'm on day 1.
Side note: is anyone else super uncomfortable after using the boric acid capsules? will this discomfort pass? painful urination is my #1 symptom when I have BV and this doesn't seem to be helping the problem.
(Bloomfield, Mi)
04/03/2018
Hey, I never inserted a capsule inside of my vagina. I inserted the Borox acid capsule last night! I'm hoping I didn't push it too far up. Will I have to squeeze the capsule out or does that melt. I'm scared to have the remaining capsules stuck inside of me!!!! (Not sure if this is a dumb question!