Boric Acid for Women’s Health
There is a whole world down there! The vagina is home to microbial species whose job is to form a mutually beneficial relationship with the human body and provide a line of defense against harmful pathogens. These bacteria aren’t here to harm us, they are here to protect us and keep us healthy!
Studies suggest that there exists upwards of 200 species of bacteria that live in the vagina. Among most women, the dominant bacterial species, Lactobacillus, is believed to promote a healthy vaginal ecosystem.
When this balance is disrupted however, the risk of infection increases.
Lactobacillus species produce lactic acid, whose job is to keep the vaginal pH level low.
Vaginal pH levels play an important role in determining whether it is healthy or not. The ideal pH of a healthy vagina is said to range between 3.5 to 4.5 on the acid/alkaline scale.
This means that the natural environment of the vagina tends towards an acidic nature and this acidity is the first line of defense against pathogens and developing infections.
Common Infections
Bacterial vaginosis is one of the most common vaginal conditions among women of reproductive age, characterized by the disruption of the equilibrium of the normal vaginal ecosystem. BV accounts for millions of doctor visits per year in the U.S alone.
Bacterial vaginosis is said to occur when there is an excess of certain bacteria present in the vagina.
Risk factors for the development of bacteria vaginosis include hormonal changes such as pregnancy or menopause, intrauterine devices, sexual activity, smoking, not using condoms, and douching.
It is associated with symptoms such as
- Pain or burning sensations in the vagina
- Thin white or gray vaginal discharge
- A strong fish-like odor
- Burning sensation when urinating
- Itching inside or around the outside of the vagina
It is important to treat BV as early as possible because it can increase the risk of sexually transmitted infections and even problems during pregnancy if left untreated. The good news is that it is easily treatable!
Vulvovaginal candidiasis is another common condition among females, also referred to as Candidiasis or vaginal yeast infection, that is caused by Candida species.
Risk factors include the use of oral contraceptives, intrauterine devices, spermicides, condoms, sexual activity, and antibiotic use.
Symptoms may include:
- Vaginal itching or soreness
- Pain during sexual intercourse
- Pain or discomfort when urinating
- Abnormal vaginal discharge
Boric Acid Treatment
Boric acid is a natural chemical substance that has been used as a popular therapy for treating infections of the vagina for over 100 years.
Boric acid suppository provides antiseptic, antiviral, antibacterial, and antifungal actions, and works by replenishing normal vaginal acidity and balancing the vaginal microbiome.
This compound creates an environment that is unfavorable to pathogens, helping to treat yeast and bacterial infections and providing relief from symptoms.
For those who experience chronic infections, boric acid may help to keep them at bay as it has been shown to outperform certain medications in the treatment of vaginal yeast infections and bacterial vaginosis.
Research suggests that boric acid is a safe, economic, and alternative option for women who suffer from recurrent and chronic symptoms of vaginitis.
It is typically recommended to use boric acid for vaginal infections for up to two weeks, or as recommended by your healthcare provider.
Now available to the Canadian market from Aeryon Wellness Support Supplement’s is “Up & Away. This 100% Boric Acid suppository comes as a 14 day kit with applicator or a 30 day supply.
Aeryon Wellness pH feminine testing strips are also available. They are designed to easily and accurately measure how acidic or alkaline your vagina is on the pH scale.
Please note, boric acid is toxic if consumed orally, it is only to be inserted vaginally. For this reason, it is recommended to insert before bed and use a panty liner as increased discharge may occur the next day.