Here's What To Know About Vaginal Suppositories

by Foria .
Jan 16, 2023

When you think about taking a supplement, how do you assume you will take it? Orally? Maybe topically? What if we told you that there was something you could use vaginally that could have the same, if not even more impressive, results?

Here’s what you need to know about vaginal suppositories, how to use them, and some of their benefits.

What Is a Vaginal Suppository?

A vaginal suppository is a type of medication or supplement designed to be inserted into and absorbed by the vagina. Sometimes the product is made to treat the vaginal area, and other times it's just because the mucus membranes in the vagina are really good at quickly absorbing things so they get into your system faster.

A perfect example of vaginal suppositories in action are medications designed to treat or manage vaginal yeast infections and bacterial vaginosis, such as boric acid suppositories. You’ve probably had experience inserting one of the more common over-the-counter medications (like Miconazole).

These medications work efficiently because they are inserted directly into the area that needs them quickly absorbed, taking care of the vaginal odor and vaginal discharge that are common with that specific issue.

What Are the Benefits of a Vaginal Suppository?

We’ve touched on the benefits of vaginal suppositories a little bit, but let’s look at them a little closer. Three of the main benefits are their efficient administration, targeted use, and ease of use.

Here’s why they’re important.

Efficient Administration

When you take a pill, you have to wait for it to hit your stomach, be absorbed into your bloodstream, and go where it needs to go. With vaginal suppositories, you’re skipping that middle man. Think of it like topical medication — if you’re dealing with sore, achy joints, you’d rub a balm or salve directly on them, right? Vaginal suppositories work the same way, only from the inside out.

Targeted Relief

The vagina is one of the great wonders of the world, but it’s not always fun and games. Sometimes, it can experience some distracting and frustrating issues that can impact your day (and your sex life). Vaginal suppositories, like relief melts, can quickly provide targeted relief for problems like menstrual cramps and pelvic floor discomfort.

Many vaginal suppositories are designed to help vaginal dryness, too. Obviously, if you’re struggling with making natural lubrication (which can happen when you’re on certain types of birth control, breastfeeding, or during menopause), the vagina is where you need to focus.

Easy To Use

What is a vaginal suppository if not easy to use? While the thought may seem a little weird at first, once you get the hang of them, you’ll wonder why you didn’t start using them sooner! Take intimacy suppositories, for example.

If you want to ease discomfort and enhance arousal pre-sex, all you need to do is insert one about 15 to 30 minutes beforehand. You’ll also feel that tension slipping away as it melts and absorbs.

Remember, practice makes perfect. What feels awkward at first will become second nature, especially if you have inserted a tampon before. Don’t give up; you’ll get the hang of it!

How Are Vaginal Suppositories Used?

Knowing the benefits of vaginal suppositories is one thing, but actually inserting them is another. We know the idea can be a little intimidating, but we promise it’s easier than you think!

Here are some tips for your first time inserting a vaginal suppository:

Avoid unhealthy ingredients: You wouldn’t put anything into your mouth that could harm you, right? Why would you want to do the same with your vagina? Your vaginal health is important, so avoid ingredients like parabens, glycerin, or petroleum, which may increase the risk of side effects or throw off your vaginal pH balance.
Get familiar with the applicator (if there is one): Some vaginal suppositories come with a tampon-like applicator, where the suppositories fit directly into a groove in the tip. Familiarize yourself with how they work and how far you have to press the plunger before inserting them the first time.
Wash your hands first: Even though the vagina isn’t a sterile area, washing your hands before inserting your suppository is still essential. You don’t want to trap any bacteria in there, especially because any warm, moist area can be a breeding ground for infection.
Find the right position: While everyone’s ideal position differs, lying on your back with your knees bent seems to be the easiest position for first-timers.
Use lubrication: Regardless of whether you’re using your finger or an applicator, make sure to use lube before attempting to insert it into the vagina. Even a little lube on the applicator's tip can make the insertion process more comfortable. You can also try dipping the applicator in a little warm water.
Wear a panty liner afterward: What goes in must come out, so you may want to wear something to protect your undies for an hour or so after you’ve inserted it. It may also help to use them at bedtime to keep all that goodness in there when you are lying on your back for a while.
Store them appropriately: Read your bottle to ensure you’re storing your vaginal suppositories correctly. Most of them do best in cool, dark conditions — storing them in direct sunlight or in a warmer area can cause them to melt too soon. You may open your bottle up next time and find one big clump of vaginal suppositories and a whole lot of wasted money.

Contact your doctor for medical advice if you’re using any medicated suppository. Even if you’re just switching to a spermicide suppository for contraception, it’s important to let your primary healthcare provider know so they can update your chart for future visits.

The Bottom Line

What is a vaginal suppository? The right suppository is easy to use, efficient, and can target an area that can benefit most. Make sure you use lube on the end of the applicator, store your suppositories in a dry, cool place, and wash your hands before insertion!

"Foria would love to help you minimize discomfort support vaginal hydration during menopause, minimize discomfort during menstruation, and enhance your sexual pleasure with our innovative line of melts."

Sources:

Vaginal yeast infections (thrush): What helps? - InformedHealth.org | NCBI Bookshelf

Miconazole Vaginal | MedlinePlus Drug Information

Parabens Factsheet | National Biomonitoring Program | CDC