The comments below reflect the personal experiences and opinions of readers and do not represent medical advice or the views of this website. The information shared has not been evaluated by the FDA and is not intended to diagnose, treat, or prevent any disease or health condition. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional for medical concerns.
Folic Acid
Posted by Steph (London) on 06/30/2024
★★★☆☆
FOLIC ACID AND BLOOD WORK - get a blood test
I did a blood test and found out I was deficient in folate. The prescribed dose for a folate deficiency is 5mg prescription only! which is equivalent to 5000mcg!!!!!!!!!!!!! If you look at online pharmacists. So I'm sure the doses that others have mentioned in this post are still safe to use as they are nowhere near this amount.
I suggest you get a blood test done first to be sure.
Also folate is a vitamin that many people are deficient in for this reason many of our foods are fortified with folate such as cereals. Women especially need to take folate in case they fall pregnant. I had a family member who would always say take folic acid!!
I can't rate it 5 star since I'm still waiting for results but I do notice it does reduce discharge currently with 1200mcg, maybe I will up the dose and then take another blood test later.
Folic Acid
Posted by Janet (Wisconsin) on 07/11/2020
Regarding Folic Acid/Folate for vaginal odor. I take 800 mcg a day. If I stop taking it, eventually the odor comes back. It took about a week for the odor to completely disappear in my case. It really works. I've had trouble with a urine like odor from the vaginal area for years. I thought it was urine leakage but my underwear were always dry. I don't remember why I started taking folate, possibly because I stumbled upon a forum like this one. I would recommend starting with a lower dose of Folate and increase it if needed. Be careful not to take too high a dose as it's not recommended and can be harmful.
Folic Acid
Posted by Denise (New Jersey) on 11/05/2015
I am wondering the same thing?? It does work but do I have to take it forever?! And do I still have an infection and the folic acid just masks it? I hope someone can answer.
Folic Acid
Posted by Brittney (Chicago, Il) on 03/31/2015
★★★★★
So I visited this site a few weeks ago and decided to give folic acid a try. I got diagnosed around christmas and took antibiotics and I felt they made it worse. I currently take the 800 mcg folic acid that says it's for women's health. idk if that makes a difference. I take 2 in the morning and 1 at night. I started this before my period started and I had very minimal discharge after which was a MIRACLE because that's when it was the worst! I mean going through at least 3-4 pantiliners a day. It's now a week after my period ended and I've had very normal discharge but I tried lowering my dose today and after my 7 hour shift at work, I discovered more discharge then I've been having lately. I don't know if my boyfriend is reinfecting me because I'm sexually active again. I will up my dose to my usual 2 in the morning and 1 at night (2400 mcg a day) and see if this helps. I will report back with my results. I've also changed my soap to olay sensitive and been washing my vagina with dove fragrance free bar soap. Also switched to cotton panties and I wash those with fragrance free detergent.
Folic Acid
Posted by Diamond (Ma., US) on 02/05/2015
★★★★★
I have been taking 400mg folic acid for over a year, also I take one of the best & strongest probiotics called CatsClaw; I found it to be super strong and works quickly.It's called cats claw because the herb is shaped like cats claws, they are cultivated and put into capsules. This product has done super wonders for me, it has done a clean sweep of most ailments, I had huge amounts of inflammation that left my body at the same time. And sugar does aggravate most infections/BV. I bought some excellent yogurt great for natural flora called Siggi's; it's sold in whole food stores.I buy only the plain white.
Good Luck.
Folic Acid
Posted by Diamond (Ma., US) on 02/05/2015
★★★★★
I some times take ACV in my breakfast juices, either OJ or grapefruit, it cuts down on too much acid.
Folic Acid
Posted by Jeahgee (Houston, TX) on 06/30/2014
★★★★★
Wonderful Ladies, I HAD to write a post on this... it has actually worked. The Folic Acid has taken away all symptoms of BV in my body.
Would anyone believe that for over a decade, I didn't even know what BV was... or that I had it. It's so sad. I really wasn't educated about BV or its symptoms growing up, I just thought I was "different". I didn't really have an issue with 'strong smell' unless I was super stress, but I have ALWAYS had glumps of discharge... I just thought, well that's my body and how it has always done things.
I actually purchased some Folic Acid, not for BV (didn't know what BV was) but because it was on sale!!! How funny. Anyway, I wanted to see what it helped with and happened upon this website. I was shocked by the women's reviews. I then began taking the Folic Acid and within about 2-3 days, I noticed I didn't have an odor... it's been about a week and a few days now and it's like the BV never existed. No odor and can you believe no discharge. I have lived this way for most of my life and I am honestly adjusting to not having sticky underwear from discharge.
A few weeks ago... I was going through an EXTREMELY stressful situation and the BV caused me to smell. I was so embarrassed and didn't even know this condition had a name. To keep from smelling up the room for people around me... I actually placed spearmint tea bags in my underwear to mask the odor.
With Folic Acid, it's as if BV never was apart of my life. I took 1600mcg daily for the first few days, and now I'm weaning down to eventually 400mcg daily. I'm explaining what I did so that you all would know, but I'm sure that a lower dosage would have worked just as well. Folic Acid is water soluble, excess Folic Acid should wash away through your water intake.
Anyway, I'm BV free and super happy! ^_^ Take care!
Folic Acid
Posted by Twistedsunshsine (Manila, Ph) on 02/25/2014
Hi! I'm 20 years old from Manila. I have this BV for couple of months now. I'm sexually active and I don't know what to do, still searching for a relief. I have read all your posts/comments, I've listed it all.
BV kills me psychologically and physically. It feels so embarrassing when my boyfriend and I are doing the deed. The day before yesterday, I took Metronidazole tab (500mg), I bought it over the counter without the doctor's prescription. And I told to myself that would be the first and last that I will ever take that harsh medicine after I read a lot of testimonials. I feel so desperate to took the smell away!
Tonight, I will buy folic acids. Thanks guys, that sounds great. Btw, last night I inserted a clove of garlic to my vajayjay. Coz it is well known for its antimicrobial properties. I wanna cure this in the most natural way. I also read about mustard oil. I'm also interested to that. I don't wanna douche, feels crap.
Will post again if there's any changes. I want to feel free. :(
Folic Acid
Posted by Ashley (Belton/tx/) on 01/26/2014
For BV, I took one folic acid 800 mcg and it worked in 4 days. I was excited, no smell, no burn. I'm happy I found this website :)
Folic Acid
Posted by Hp (Los Angeles) on 02/08/2013
@depressedc from twin cities.. This is a bit late but this happened to me when I had a yeast infection and was using metro gel @ the same time.. I took the yeast infection medication and basically just scooped out the junk for a couple of nights in the shower. It was nasty... But my yeast infection was cured and I didn't have that cottage cheese chunk anymore.. Although I still have BV. FML!
Folic Acid
Posted by Tgm (Durham, Nc) on 10/22/2012
Question: If you take the Folic Acid everyday and have sex frequently without protection will the BV come back?
Folic Acid
Posted by Ac (Columbia, Sc) on 06/12/2012
★★★★★
I had been suffering with BV off and on for about a year. I would take the antibiotics and it would go away only to come back within a few months. After reading various articles on this website, I decided to try taking 800mcg of folic acid in the morning and 800mcg of it at night before going to bed. I went to Walmart and bought their brand of vinegar douche and used that on day 1 in the morning and before going to bed I used A Rephresh Vaginal Gel which helps to eliminate the odor. On day three I repeated the douche, but this time I filled the bottle with distiller water and 1 tablespoon of _____s organic apple cider vinegar and repeated another application of Rephresh. I did the ACV douche and Rephresh every 3 days for 2 weeks. The folic acid I take twice a day everyday. Within 2 weeks the odor was completely gone. As of today I still take the folic acid, but I hadn't had to douche. After my monthly, sometimes there seems to be a slight odor and I just use an application of Rephresh and every thing is back to normal. I think the continuous use of the folic acid really helped.
Folic Acid
Posted by Silvermist (Downeast, Maine, Usa) on 05/28/2012
Probx are definitely safe to use while breastfeeding. Small amounts of your intestinal bacteria are found in breastmilk, so it may be that you WANT to take probx while breastfeeding. I am a pharmacist.
Folic Acid
Posted by Jude (Fresno, Ca) on 04/23/2012
I just found this site and the cure. I have been diagnosed with BV numerous times over 12 years. I have taken 2 different kinds of medications and the gel; drs blamed my heavy periods so they put me on depoprevera; then they found a polyp so I had minor outpatient surgery. I had BV again within 2 weeks. I cant wait to go tomorrow to get the folic acid, trying the peroxide douche and the acidophilus. At my last drs appointment I was told they have tried everything they know and I should bathe everyday. I was so hurt and embarrassed; I will post again to let you all know if this remedy works. Wish me luck!
Folic Acid
Posted by Depressed (Twins Cities, U.s.a) on 01/20/2012
Bv has been affecting me for over a year now. I dont know what they cause of it was, although I think it was a sex partner b/c thats when I started to notice a bad scent. Bv has been messing with me physically, mentally, & emotional. I hate going places and having everyone stare at me becuase I had a foul smell. It put me in depression where I separate myself from everyone cause I dont want my name tarnished for being smelly all the time. I take showers but to no avail. I been to the doctor three times, and I refuse to go back as everyone knows it's expensive, well just this pass wkd I went to the store and bought I billion acidolphilus pills and 400mcg folic pills.
Btw I tried vaginal insertion of metronidazole as well as the oral pills to no avail) After I took them for a full day ( one of each in the morning, lunch time and before bed/ w. Dinner) I didn't notice a small change where my odor smell had decreased but people could still smell it. I had all natural greek yogurt too, and again to no avail (orally), so today is my second day dealing with these pills and I only took folic acid. I know I'm not giving it enough time for me to be switching regimens already but I'm so desperate its not even funny. That was around morning and I took a nap and woke up and I feel as if it worked a little bit but the smell is still there just not as bad.
Warning TMI is about to take place................. After my nap I woke up and took a swab to my vagina & the discharge was chunky like cottage cheese something I never had ( the cottage cheese looking discharge) is this a good sign?! If you can help please comment/ email me.
Folic Acid
Posted by Thsh967 (Union City, Nj) on 10/13/2011
For me, BV gets worse after sex, so this past weekend, it was flaring really bad. Actually, it got to the point that my sister could smell it, and she told me because it smelled like really bad fish. So yesterday I went to the Pharmacy and got 800 mcg of Folic Acid, Probiotics, VH Essentials for BV. Once I took the Folic Acid and Rephresh Probs, the smell lessened. When I got home that evening, I did the VH Essentials and the smell went away completely. By this time yesterday, I could smell it through my clothes, now, I can't smell it at all. I just hope it stays that way for the whole day. I've been trying to resolve this issue with the Probs a month before, and it seemed to work, but always came back. So maybe with this combination, there's a better chance that it might stay away.
Folic Acid
Posted by Grace (Irvine, Ca, United States) on 09/30/2011
I had my first encounter with BV around May right after I got off of birth control. At first it just started with little to no odor and then each month it progressively got worse. I researched online and bought some brand name vaginal gel that only masked the condition. Took brand name probiotic pills, but they werent refrigerated or anything so that didnt work. I thought it was yeast infection so I stuck anti fungal creams but that did not help.
Then I went to the doctor and got diagnosed as BV and prescribed flagyl. That worked for two weeks and it came back. I tried the yogurt on a tampon method but that didnt really help. Not too long ago I had to get some blood tests done for work and found out I was anemic as I was always tired, no appetite, and weak (symptoms of anemia). I was researching anemia and it said to take folic acid pills for iron deficiency. I went and bought folic acid pills, took two 400 mcg pills and few hours later the smell is surely but slowly going away.
Folic Acid
Posted by Nomorestresschick (Tacoma, Wa, Usa) on 09/05/2011
I just want to give some hope out there to those who are feeling down and depressed about this stress causing piece of crap condition. My friend told me about this site, she is studying to be a naturopath. Bless. Her. Soul. I have been dealing with reoccurring BV and yeast infections for 6 out of 10 months. It all started with my new relationship, and we are still together thank god despite the emotional roller coaster ride.
When first diagnosed, I was given metro gel and difflucan, symptoms went away and it returned two weeks later. Same treatment was repeated and two weeks later it returned. I was fine for a month and then I got pregnant and immediately started taking prenatal vitamins ( with folic acid ), I did not get BV or yeast for 3 months. Unfortunately I had a miscarriage at 6 weeks and during the two weeks of bleeding, I got BV again. At that point I had stopped taking my prenatal, so I also stopped taking folic acid. They gave me flagyl, still had symptoms so I did another swab test and waited a week for results, still had the darn BV. They then prescribed me with clindamycin cream. That helped. I found out about probiotics and got the 50 billion ones. I cut out ALL sugar and wheat products for a few weeks, used r------h every 3 days and for a whole month I was better. Then during my carelessness "I'm all better, lots of sex now" I used a scented wipe to clean private parts and I got a yeast and bacterial infection. Started taking two of those 50 billion pills while guzzling down kefir every day and symptoms got better, but because I went to the doc and got another swab done, they detected BV and put me on Clindamycin tablets. I burned so much after using that and it did not go away. I saw a new Gyno and she said it sounded like Cytolitic Vaginosis, basically and overgrowth of the good bacteria and it can cause burning. I quit the probiotics. Got a new swab from her and it came back negative for bv, overgrowth of good bacteria, yeast, everything. I was still burning after two weeks of no probiotics, so she prescribed me Estrace cream for Vaginal Atrophy, basically raw vagina, but common in women during menopause. Oh. My. God. That cream inflamed my whole vagina, it burned worse than EVER. It was inserted inside my vagina, so for several days I felt it coming out and irritating me more and more. On top of the horrible burns, I got the fish smell, which I only experienced with BV. I went to this site Saturday night, read about folic acid and the next day went to Walgreens, bought folic acid, took 2, 400 mcg and the smell went away after a few hours. I had experienced a major stressful situation that same day and the smell came back, so I took 400 more mcg of folic acid and the smell has decreased. I am now also taking , B-complex vitamins, Mother Apple cider vinegar, 2 tsp twice a day in 8 oz of water, a garlic supplement, eating coconut oil and bathing in baking soda. Burning almost gone! Odor almost gone. I can feel myself healing. I will not have sex for a week or two mainly because I do not want to stir any trouble, but now know that there is hope. Another thing I want to point out is that this can be a viscous circle, because stress and depression weaken the immune system which makes us more susceptible to infections. When I am down, so is my vagina. Let's all try to smile and stay positive, we can get better.
Folic Acid
Posted by Betty (Ny) on 08/24/2011
I wrote here before, Im at my wits end, this BV is the devil for sure, I just hate it!!! I smell like fish, I had this 7 years now and Im so depressed, I tried everything here, I was gonna do the boric acid but Im afraid and the pharmacies do not have it, I tierd yogurt, keifer, femdohilos etc... Now I want to try folic acid. I want to cry, this is messing up my life, I know ppl can smell me, I just want to stay home!!! I never was like this, 8 years ago some ass gave me herpes and I think it was the antibiotics and douching that messed me up, damn as a woman I always took pride on smelling good, now im a walking fish, Im currently in college and I know my fellow students talk behind my back, I do not know what to do any more, No more doctors for me, they know NOTHING!!! Why is there no cure for this? I mean really, I have a good diet, nothing esle is wrong with me. PLEASE help me!! Im going to buy folic acid now. I wish you guys luck, were in this together!!
Folic Acid
Posted by Theres A Cure (La, Ca) on 08/18/2011
★★★★★
I've been taking folic acid for 2 days now, twice a day and it has started to make the odor go away. My discharge has already started to change. Ladies please please hang in there. This has showed great progress in such a short time. Give it a try. And its a cheap cure!!! I bought a bottle of the cvs brand Folic Acid 8oo MCG. It ran me about 5 dollars (for those in the U. S). And for all you young girls who are afraid to tell your parents I urge you to speak up because you shouldnt have to suffer in silience. This is nothing the be embarassed about, it happens to the most of us. Its best you take care of the problem and most importantly know exactly what problem you have.
Folic Acid
Posted by Jkl (Chicago, Il) on 07/11/2011
I found my cure! I was taking 800mcg of folic acid everyday which somewhat gave me the relief I need but I noticed after my period the smell would come back, so before I tried the folic acid my doctor told me to douche with 1tbs spoon of hibiclens (not over the counter) and a liter of warm water for 6 weeks. So now what I do is I douche right after my period once with hibiclens and continue taking my pills, it's been 4 months and I have not smelt anything and I do not have any weird watery discharge like before, I feel so free because of this so if you try this and it works for you too write back and let others know!
Folic Acid
Posted by Gokhals (San Francisco, Ca, Usa) on 03/21/2011 34 posts
★★★★★
800 mg Folic acid [mine had B6/B12 added to it, taken once a day sublingually, 2 pods of garlic mashed thoroughly and mixed with extra virgin olive oil, applied several times a day. Worked! Am not sure it was the folic acid or the olive oil or the garlic, but it worked.
Folic Acid
Posted by Ladyb (Reston, Virgina) on 01/21/2011
You cannot overdose on folic acid, your body flushes out the excess. I currently take a vitamin with 400 mg, my BV is still on. I would stick to what your doing if it works. I'm going to try it myself. I hope this works b/c I'm sick of this condition.
Folic Acid
Posted by Chany2198 (Syracuse, Ny) on 06/11/2010
Just because this worked for you does not mean it will work for everyone. Sounds like it did not work for the lady who did try it. Now where do you find the live one million acidophilus?
Folic Acid
Posted by Mel (Sydney, Nsw Australia) on 05/14/2010
Hi Tis, I took your advice, didnt douche and I STILL take 2 x Acidophilis and 2 x F/Acid and I still have feral white discharge. No more smell though. I've had this problem since April (well I've had BV on and off since 2007) and I am sick of spending money at the Drs and getting useless antibiotics that cause MORE discharge!
Folic Acid
Posted by Tis (Ny, Ny) on 05/13/2010
hello Ladies, my heart goes out to all of you who suffere from BV. I know what it is, what is does, because I suffered for two years untill I came to this web site.
1) Pls do not douche.
2) Take any probiotice with at least a million acidophilus and the folic acid daily. I'd recommend 2 folic and two acidophilus twice daily for one week and once daily after.
It works. Trust me, you will be free from this ailment and I recommend you keep taking both from time to time. Eat healthy as well, lots of broccoli and avocados.
My very best wishes Ladies.
Folic Acid
Posted by Bibi (Nashville, Tn Usa) on 05/03/2010
Go to the grocery store and buy some extra virgin coconut oil. I buy coconut oil at my local grocer. I put some in a separate jar at home to use on my body. I cleared up a yeast infection in record time with it (applying directly to the vagina). The itching stopped almost immediately and, within 48 hours, it was gone. Of course, I kept applying the coconut oil daily for a few months. Also, I knew somebody with your problem (BV) and recommended coconut oil to her, and it worked. Good luck.
Folic Acid
Posted by Chany2198 (Syracuse, Ny) on 05/03/2010
I am not sure that I can take Probiotic acidophilus since I am breastfeeding. I asked the pharmasist and she cannot say if it safe or not. I take pre-natals and I heard that taking folic acid for long term use is not good for you. I have been using betadine douches but it is so darn expensive but it does work.
Folic Acid
Posted by Beth (Ashland, Oregon) on 04/10/2010
Most of us don't know exactly what may have caused our BV but I believe for myself that it developed after having more then one sexual partner. The first time I ever experienced the smell was almost 10 years ago. I thought it was him since I had NEVER experienced any problems in the Punnani area before and had only been in serious relationships. Plus it seemed to only smell during sex. We were both baffled! Shortly after that I became pregnant and started taking a prenatal vitamin everyday which contains 800mg Folic Acid. The smell became less frequent. When I went to the Doctor for my first prenatal check up we told her about the smell we've experienced and she said that everythign looks great!! That it sounds like a BV but there are no signs of me having or had one. Okay!? Yay! And it NEVER CAME BACK the whole 8 years I was married. But I never linked its dissapearance to the folic acid until i found THIS SITE! :)
I've been single for 3 years and sexually active having more than 1 partner. The smell started again last year. Again, didn't link the prenatal vitiman aka folic acid tell recently. I've been taking it 800 mg folic acid every day and acidopholice as well and as long as I dont miss a day it's gone. But if i do it seems to creep back subtley.
I KNOW folic acid can CURE it for good! The difference in my life style from when it cured it 8 years ago may be the reason it hasn't yet. I consume alcohol & caffine on a regular basis, which obviously I didn't when I was pregnant or breastfeeding (21 months). And I've had more than one sexual partner which I belive to throw my whole ph balance off.
So for one month I plan to take 1 800mg of folic acid and the 5 acidophilus pills daily. Starting with 2 800 folic acid the first day. Sustain from drinking beer and coffee and increase water.
Folic Acid
Posted by Rs (San Francisco, Ca) on 04/06/2010
NO, NO........You need to be taking an acidophilus probiotic, at least 50 billion strength along with at least 1600mcg of folic acid.................you DO NOT insert folic acid into your vagina!! You can insert the acidophilus probiotic into your vagina or do liquid acidophilus douches. What helped me from this site (and I just finished doing my regimen right now). I douche with 1/4 cup of 3% hydrogen peroxide mixed with 1/4 cup of distilled water. Then douche with 1/2 cup of distilled water to rinse your vagina. Then I douche with 1/4 cup of liquid acidophilus. Tonight I also inserted 2 acidophilus probiotic capsules (5 billion each) because Im having a flare up of my BV from having sex over the weekend. This is a regimen that you will have to do for the rest of your life or until there is a cure for BV. There is NO CURE for BV right now. This combination of things will certainly give you instant relief and the smell will be gone instantly after the hydrogen peroxide douche. You can do it nightly until you feel better, but dont stop totally because it will come back. It always comes back no matter what you do. This is not a cure, just relief and it is a miracle that saved my sex life and my life. You also want to take a B-12 vitamin because folic acid deprives your body of B-12. Its all worth the time and money for relief. Trust me.
Step 1- BEFORE BEDTIME- douche with 1/4 cup 3% hydrogen peroxide mixed with 1/4 cup of distilled water.
Step 2- douche with 1/4 cup of distilled water to rinse vagina.
Step 3- OPTIONAL BUT GIVES RELIEF- douche with 1/4 cup of liquid acidophilus
Step 4- OPTIONAL BUT A GOOD IDEA- insert 1-2 capsules of probiotic acidophilus (made especially for vaginal health) before bedtime.
Step 5- take a probiotic acidophilus capsule (at least 50 billion especially for vaginal health) along with at least 1600mcg of folic acid and a B-12 vitamin.
You will have relief in an hour or 1-2 days. Every woman is different. You have to find the right combination for you. I took me 7 months to get my combination down pat and I douche 3-4 nights a week and you MUST take the probiotic, folic acid and B-12 EVERY DAY. Do not stop or it will come back. DO NOT STOP.
Folic Acid
Posted by Chany2198 (Syracuse, Ny) on 04/06/2010
★☆☆☆☆
I have been taking 800 mcg of folic acid, vit D 3, and my prenantal and it is not helping at all so I am confused as to why so many women are saying it is their cure. I think the odor as gotten much worse since. I tried inserting the folic acid vaginally and that is not helping either. I am so deseprate for a cure. I am so sick of turning down my husband because I dont want him to smell me.
Folic Acid
Posted by Nurse14 (Tallahassee, Florida) on 03/31/2010
★★★★☆
Hi I was so desperate for help with BV. I have been a nurse for years and had seen doctors prescribe Flagyl for women only to have them return or call saying that they still had problem after taking the medicine. I had not had a problem with this until I started taking in alot of caffeine and sugary drinks to stay awake during late shifts at work. I was at my wits end and I found this site. I tried the peroxide douche, acidophillus, yogurt, and folic acid, and I have to be honest the only thing that has continued to work for me is taking 800mg of Folic Acid daily and thats it. The douche only worked for a day and I don't promote douching, and inserting yogurt vaginally was just to messy. As for the acidophillus I really didn't see where it was helping at all. As long as I take the folic acid I'm fine [knock on wood]. I am grateful for all the brave women who told their stories. So here's mine I hope it helps someone defeat this smelly monster.
Folic Acid
Posted by Audrey (New York Ny, Ny) on 03/21/2010
Wow, I am going to the health food store first chance I get. I suffer from one embarrassing incident after another in dealing with BV. I understand it is stronger in women who are peri-menopausal or menopausal. It's played havoc with my psyche and I grown extremely self-conscious. I believe it is the root cause behind so many interviews that lead no where. Yes, it's THAT bad. I normally wash my underwear by hand every night. Someone suggest using Borax to kill fungus and odor.
I will try the dosage that seems to commonly work on this site and get back. There is one small problem, I don't have a very good sense of smell and I will only be able to measure its success as to whether or not there is a discharge.
Many, many thanks and God bless one and all.
Folic Acid
Posted by Anonymous (Rock Hill, Sc) on 01/24/2010
I've read a lot of people interchanging the MCG and MG dosages. Here is a little lesson in science, not to be rude, but to clear things up a little.
Most medications are measured in units of Grams. If you ever learned in high school science or math, "King Henry Died By Drinking Chocolate Milk" It is a saying to help remember the breakdown of the metric system prefixes.
Kilo (multiply by 1000)
Hecto (multiply by 100)
Deca (multiply by 10)
BASE (this is your base unit)
Deci (multiply by 0.1)
Centi (multiply by 0.01
Milli (mulitply by 0.001)
It's basically a serious of moving decimal places.
So. 1 GRAM of Folic acid is equivalent to 1,000MG of Folic Acid.
Later on down in the conversions, the "Micro" prefix comes up. 1 milligram = 1,000 micrograms(mcg)
So please be sure not to confuse the two. If you are saying you are taking 400mg of Folic Acid, and as Folic Acid is most commonly measured in Micrograms, you are really taking 400,000mcg of Folic Acid. Which is 400 times the strength of PRESCRIPTION Folic Acid.
So I do believe you are meaning to say 400mcg. I just wanted to clear it up for others who may not understand the difference.
Thank you ladies so much for your help though. I never thought to try this. I was trying to find a way to avoid going to the doctor to get another anitbiotic (which, if you are like me, gives me a yeast infection EVERY time, and really isn't worth the trouble).
I am going to start this today, and I will be sure and leave feedback. Thank you so much!
Folic Acid
Posted by Anonymous (Rock Hill, Sc) on 01/24/2010
I just wanted to ask if you took 400 MG or MCG. Folic Acid is usually taken by micrograms. And I was going to try this remedy and I didn't want to take the wrong dose. Thanks.
Folic Acid
Posted by Che (Arcata, Ca) on 12/17/2009
Get your iron level checked. Although your hematocrit and hemoglobin, both part of a cbc blood test, may be ok you may still have a low iron count. My internet research shows there may be a correlation, especially in pregancy. Good luck!
Folic Acid
Posted by She (Bl, Ca) on 12/17/2009
I have had bv for 5 years starting after the birth of my child. I have been having a lot of blood tests lately in pursuit of an answer to this problem. Although I have never really had a terribly low hematocrit or hemoglobin I just had my iron level tested and it was extremely low! According to my internet research there is a correlation between iron deficency anemia, especially in pregnancy, and bv. So, you may have never been diagnosed with anemia based on a cbc blood test it still may be worth looking at your actual iron level. I am not sure if this is my bv answer, although I am hoping it is,it may be the answer to my fatigue. Good luck.
Folic Acid
Posted by Angela (Jacksonville, Fl) on 11/29/2009
I just read how a lady thinks sex plays a role in BV. I have been married for 12 yrs in a monogamous relationship and started having BV symptoms after our child was born. Around that time my husband was visiting "clubs" and became interested in one of the girls there. He said that nothing ever happened and even took all the STD tests to prove it to me. I still have trust issues and wonder if he might have come into contact with something that caused me to get BV! He is the only man I've been with - ever. I was prescribed "Met gel" which got rid of the itch, but as soon as it was done, the other symptoms returned. I never had discharge/odor before BV, and I want that gone too! Doc says to try H2O2/water douche, but that only works for the day if I'm lucky. I've been suffering with this embarrassment for 4 years! Will try some folic acid tomorrow.
Folic Acid
Posted by Froggy (Pueblo, Colorado) on 09/14/2009
The best and quickest cure I have found for BV is the douche of 1:1 hydrogen peroxide and distilled water...works instantly for the smell and lessens if not stops the discharge. Continue taking the folic acid (I do 400 mcg twice daily and the acidophilus too).
Folic Acid
Posted by Gommaril (Harpers Ferry, Wv) on 09/09/2009
If you dont tried how would you know, obviously is working for another womans just try!
Folic Acid
Posted by Tonya (Montgomery, Alabama) on 08/27/2009
I ask my Dr. do folic acid kill the bacteria or mask it, she stated it kills it. But for some odd reason our bodies are not producing enough of something to keep this bacteria at bay. So as long as I know I can take 2 folic acid pills a day to smell fresh and clean the hellow pills goodbye funk!!!! Tonya from AL
Folic Acid
Posted by Tonya (Montgomery, Alabama) on 08/25/2009
You put the cream up in you right before bed time. This helps keep it in longer.
Folic Acid
Posted by Connie (Manitowoc, Wisconsin, USA) on 08/15/2009
Probably there is no need to have your husband take the folic acid. According to one Website about sexually transmitted diseases:
"There is no condition equivalent to bacterial vaginosis in men. Bacterial vaginosis can occur in monogamous relationships, and it can occur even when the woman's partners always use condoms.
So, it seems that a sexual partner doesn't "give" a woman bacterial vaginosis, but it occurs as a result of sexual contact."
Folic Acid
Posted by Jasmin (Watauga, Tx) on 08/12/2009
do you think my husband should still take the folic acid if I make him wear a condom?
Folic Acid
Posted by Mel (Kobe, Hyogo, Japan) on 08/10/2009
★★★★★
In reply to Julie - I was in a very similar situation and tried multiple remedies. The only thing that worked was the folic acid - I recommend you start using it immediately if you haven't already!! It won't interfere with the probiotics and in my opinion the antibiotics are a waste of time!! I took about 1200mg the first couple of days with a vitamin b supplement and then decreased to 800mg. I've since stopped taking the folic acid, and haven't had it back again. Thank god!! BV is sooo nasty and embarrassing and I feel for anyone that is suffering with it.
Folic Acid
Posted by Mo (Colorado Springs, Co) on 08/04/2009
I started taking the folic acid first. Within the first day I got diarrhea and within five days I was sick to my stomach. Has anyone ever heard of side effects from folic acid?
Folic Acid
Posted by Confused One (Gso, Nc) on 08/02/2009
Im trying to figure out how folic acid and b-12 which are for heart health can help with vaginal odor.
Folic Acid
Posted by Stella (Atlanta, Ga) on 08/02/2009
★★★★★
i would like to give hope to my fellow ladies afflicted with this terrible terrible "thing". I'd reached rock bottom.literally. BV robs you of all yourself esteem, you feel unclean, unlovable, the whole business is just disgusting.
then i came across this site and from the information on natural remedies i tried folic acid supplements(800 mcg) and multivitamin B12 supplements as well to offset any deficiency.i take 1 tablet of the folic and 1 of the multivitamins per day.i have taken these for 7 days now though the BV subsided after the first dose.
i keep up with the folic to make sure this thing does not rear its head again and grind my life to a halt. i hope sharing my story helps someone out there. i do have a few questions though:my multivitamins also indicate that they have folic acid 400mcg.so my total intake is 1200 mcg per day.i think this might be a little too much especially considering that the monster aka BV is no more. is it okay to do away with the Folic supplements and stick to the multivits which have folic acid? will this be enough to keep BV at bay?
...Oh, incase i didnt make it clear.Folic acid cured that BV. i refuse to call it my BV.its not mine , i dnt own it , i sure as ** dont want it. all the best :)
Folic Acid
Posted by Julie (Los Angeles, CA, USA) on 06/18/2009
BV and Folic Acid - I have also been SUFFERING with BV for about a year, after a new relationship (still in the same relationship) and have had several treatments with Flagyl. Worked the first time, but not after that. I am also taking Probiotics in hopes that it will work but it hasn't. It did at first but once I had sex it came back! I have a doctor's appt tomorrow. I am going to buy some Folic Acid. Question: do we need any particular dosage or kind? Can we take antibiotics along with the folic acid and pro biotics? I AM DESPERATE. It's making me very depressed. Thanks
Folic Acid
Posted by Isa (Rockville, MD) on 06/12/2009
★★★★★
So, after reading through a ton of these Folic Acid cure-all miracles, I went into my food closet, fished out the Folic Acid vitamins I had been avoiding to take and did a regimen of 1600mg immediately.
Next days, 800 in the morning, 800 at lunch, 800 at night.
I'll cut down to 1600 again tomorrow.
Vagina smelling healthy, though still a little off. Overall dramatically improved. I will try stopping folic acid next week to see if it comes back. But it seems everyone is saying that is comes back.
SO, what do you do for B.V. NOT to come back? Do I have to take Folic Acid the rest of my life or what?
Folic Acid
Posted by Luckylee (Cleveland, Oh) on 06/02/2009
Your comment was very very helpful and informative because you used both, described your symptoms, then you went to one, described those symptoms, then you changed your dose and described THOSE symptoms. I think I will try the Folic Acid 400 mg bid and see how that goes. My only question is you mentioned that you have "been doing this for a month". Have you ever stopped taking the Folic Acid and if so, are you still symptom free?
Folic Acid
Posted by Luckylee (Cleveland, Oh) on 06/02/2009
How long did you have to take Folic Acid, or is it something you have to always take in order to keep BV at bay?
Folic Acid
Posted by Luckylee (Cleveland, Ohio) on 06/02/2009
I have been suffering with BV on and off for several years, and it's only now that I thought to look up a home remedy. I am so relieved to see that I am not alone in this personal battle I face that comes with being a woman. Before I invest time and money into this home remedy though I would like to ask: Is this something I will have to take/do every day for the rest of my life? Or is this a treatment for 3 days, maybe 7-10 days then stop, and the BV is gone? I also see that there are so many different options as far as dosages, and route. What's the best dosage, and what's the best route? I need to do something TODAY!
Folic Acid
Posted by Jenna (Los Angeles, CA) on 05/28/2009
Yikes. I think a green discharge is Trich, not BV?
Folic Acid
Posted by Anne (New York, New York) on 05/04/2009
★★★★★
I just want to inform other women about what has helped me get rid of my BV. I have suffered from this for 10+ years and have had countless visits with the gyno. I was given every antibiotic they prescribe for BV. After doing a ton of research and spending alot of money on probiotics I have discovered the key thing that I believe treated my BV, Folic Acid. I started taking 400 Folic Acid with the Vitamin B complex. I had instant results. Every now and then if I feel my PH is slightly off I will increase my dose to 800 Folic Acid and I am absolutley fine (I do alot of strenuous work outs and I sweat alot so I think it contributes to problems in that area). I have never felt so fresh and clean since I started taking the Folic Acid. I highley recommend Folic Acid and Vitamin B complex for BV. Ofcourse everyone's body is different, but this has been my cure! God Bless-
Folic Acid
Posted by Ki Ki (Atl, Ga) on 04/29/2009
My gyno said that if your sexual partner is uncircumcised, have him clean his penis always before you have sex.
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Posted by Betbizpartner (Watertown, NY) on 04/23/2009
★☆☆☆☆
Have been diagnosed with BV twice. Before and during pregnancy. have been living with it for about 2 yrs. now. It is killing my relationship as my husband is very sexual person and sex has become extremely uncomfortable, physically and emotionally, for me. I find myself starting fights with him for made up reasons just to avoid sex. I did not have BV, that I noticed, before I met him. Now, I am pregnant and just finished the metro gel. It gave me a yeast infection, a bladder infection, and my UTI that i just got rid of came back. Have taken Flagyl previously with only slightly better results. It will not go away. But i must try, so i am taking a prenatal which is full of folic acid, seems to be doing nothing. I will now try garlic and cranberry pills and baking soda baths and anything i can get my hands on that I don't fear endangering my pregnancy, I think the BV is doing a fine job of that on it's own.
Folic Acid
Posted by Trena (Lynnwood, Wa) on 04/15/2009
★★★★★
I have been having an issue with BV for a while now. And a few days ago i came across the site and have been reading some of the reviews on how other people got rid of the itching and the smell and the discharge...I was so embarrassed about it. So once i read all the success stories about folic acid the next day i went to the store bought the 800 mcg and took 2 tablets in the moring and 2 that night. and i woke up the next day and the itching and the smell had gone away...so i took 2 more this morning and hopefully it will stop the yucky discharge. But so far it has been working great! I am so thankful for the internet!
Folic Acid
Posted by Jane (Seattle, WA) on 03/20/2009
you need to give the remedies more time. if the irritation doesn't go away, you may want to get checked for herpes or vaginal warts. Good luck!
Folic Acid
Posted by Angela (Plymouth, MI, USA) on 03/20/2009
if you have BV, it may continue to come back after you have sex again because it can often be contagious. meaning, your partner will continue to give it right back to you until he/she is cured. they can have the infection even if they do not show symptoms.
