Can You Have Sex After Using Boric Acid?

Boric acid is a natural compound made of boron, oxygen, and hydrogen, derived from borax.

It has antifungal and antibacterial properties and works by restoring the vaginal pH balance. It’s a potential treatment option for chronic yeast infections or bacterial vaginosis that haven’t responded well to traditional antifungal or antibiotic treatments.

Although boric acid has a long history, scientific evidence supporting its effectiveness is somewhat limited. It can be beneficial in certain cases, but it's rarely recommended as the primary treatment for vaginal infections. 

Some research shows that boric acid suppositories may be helpful in cases of recurrent yeast infections caused by less common strains of Candida (ie, not Candida albicans). The clinical evidence for boric acid's effectiveness in treating bacterial vaginosis isn't as strong. Bacterial vaginosis can be stubborn and may not respond well to antibiotics, and while some studies suggest that boric acid may help when used alongside antibiotics, it's not considered a definitive solution for treating recurrent bacterial vaginosis.

Boric acid suppositories are generally well tolerated when used vaginally (as long as you follow the instructions for use), but they may cause mild side effects. Common side effects include:

• Vaginal irritation
• Itching
• A burning sensation
• A gritty sensation in your vagina
• Watery discharge.

It’s worth noting that although boric acid suppositories are available over the counter, you should always consult your healthcare provider before using them. Boric acid prescribed by a doctor or through Evvy Clinical Care is usually purer and less likely to cause side effects compared to boric acid purchased over the counter or online.

Can you have sex after using boric acid?

Yes, but there’s a catch. You should avoid having sex while using boric acid or immediately after and instead wait 24-48 hours, to ensure the suppository has fully dissolved and there’s no boric acid residue left in your vaginal canal. There are a few reasons why: 

• Your partner's genital skin could be exposed to the substance during penetrative sex, potentially causing irritation.
• Boric acid is highly toxic when accidentally swallowed, so you must avoid receiving oral sex for a few days after using a boric acid suppository to avoid accidental ingestion. 
• Boric acid can damage birth control such as condoms and diaphragms and might make vaginal spermicides less effective.
• Having sex (especially unprotected sex) too soon may make it less effective. Boric acid works to restore balance in your vaginal environment and clear infections. Sex is a trigger for vaginal infections and can disrupt this process — this is true whether you’re taking boric acid, antifungals, or antibiotics, FYI.
• Although boric acid suppositories are generally safe when used vaginally, they can cause unpleasant side effects. It’s best to wait a couple of days to ensure you’re not experiencing any vaginal itching or irritation as a result of the boric acid, which could be made worse by having sex.

Most boric acid treatments last for about seven to 14 days. It’s best to complete the full course of treatment to ensure the infection is fully resolved, your symptoms have gone away, and you’re not experiencing any negative side effects. If you experience any irritation or unusual discharge, it might be best to wait a bit longer before engaging in sexual activity again. 

If your infection has cleared and you’re not experiencing any discomfort after using boric acid suppositories, you’re in the clear to have sex again. Just remember to use barrier methods like a condom or dental dam, as unprotected sex can increase your risk of developing yeast infections or bacterial vaginosis. 

FAQ

How long should you wait for sex after boric acid suppository? 

It's generally best to wait 24-48 hours after completing the full course of boric acid treatment before having sex. This gives the suppository time to dissolve and be absorbed, allowing your vaginal environment to rebalance. It also gives you a chance to watch out for any potential side effects like vaginal itching or irritation. If you’re unsure, it’s always a good idea to talk to your healthcare provider to make sure your infection has cleared and to get personalized advice on when it’s safe for you to have sex again.

How long does it take for boric acid to dissolve?

Boric acid suppositories generally take about six to 12 hours to dissolve fully once inserted into the vagina. However, the exact time can vary based on factors such as individual body temperature, vaginal environment, and the specific formulation of the suppository.

How long to wait for sex after BV treatment? 

It's best to wait until you've finished your treatment and your symptoms have completely disappeared. The general recommendation is to wait at least seven days after completing your bacterial vaginosis treatment before having sex again. The medications used to treat bacterial vaginosis need time to do their job and kill harmful bacteria. Having sex too soon could reintroduce bacteria into the vagina, potentially causing a recurrence of bacterial vaginosis. Even after starting treatment, it may take a few days for symptoms like discharge and odor to completely disappear. Waiting until these symptoms are gone is a good sign that the infection has been successfully treated. However, every person is different. If your symptoms don't go away after finishing the full treatment course, or if you're still experiencing discomfort, it's best to hold off on sex a little longer.

How long to wait for sex after yeast infection treatment? 

It's best to wait around three to seven days before having sex again after you finish treatment. This gives antifungals enough time to do their job, and allows your vaginal microbiome to restore. If you have sex too soon, it might cause some discomfort and could slow down the healing process. If you have any worries or if your symptoms don't go away, it's a good idea to check in with your doctor.