If you've never used a vaginal suppository before, the whole idea can feel a little intimidating. Where exactly does it go?
How far do you push it?
Will it fall out?
These are all fair questions, and you'd be surprised how many women have them.
Vaginal suppositories are small, solid inserts that melt at body temperature to deliver moisture, medication, or other active ingredients directly to vaginal tissue. Here's exactly how to use them, step by step.
What Do Vaginal Suppositories Do?
Vaginal suppositories work by melting inside the vaginal canal and releasing their ingredients locally. Depending on the formula, they can deliver hydration, medication for infections, hormone therapy, or pH support directly where your body needs it.
Because the ingredients are absorbed through vaginal tissue rather than through your digestive system, they tend to work faster locally and with fewer systemic side effects than oral alternatives. For conditions like vaginal dryness, a hydrating vaginal insert with hyaluronic acid can deliver deep moisture right to the tissue that needs it.
How to Insert a Vaginal Suppository
Follow these steps for comfortable, correct insertion every time.
Step 1: Wash Your Hands
Clean hands are essential. Wash thoroughly with soap and warm water before handling the suppository to prevent introducing bacteria.
Step 2: Get Into a Comfortable Position
Most women find it easiest to lie on their back with knees bent, or stand with one foot up on the toilet or edge of the bathtub. Choose whatever position lets you relax your pelvic muscles.
Step 3: Unwrap the Suppository
Remove the suppository from its packaging. If it has become soft from heat, you can run it under cool water briefly (while still in the wrapper) to firm it up. Handle it gently, as body heat from your fingers will start to melt it.
Step 4: Insert Gently
Using your index finger, gently slide the suppository into the vaginal opening and push it in about one to two inches, roughly the length of your finger to the second knuckle. You want it deep enough that it won't slip out, but you don't need to force it.
Step 5: Stay Still for a Few Minutes
After insertion, lie down for 10-15 minutes to let the suppository begin melting in place. Inserting before bed is ideal because gravity won't work against you while you sleep.
Step 6: Wash Your Hands Again
Clean your hands again after insertion. A panty liner can catch any residual discharge as the suppository fully dissolves.
How Long Does It Take for a Suppository to Melt?
Most vaginal suppositories take 15-30 minutes to fully melt, depending on the formula and your body temperature. Some women notice the suppository has fully dissolved within 15 minutes, while thicker formulations may take a bit longer.
You may notice some mild discharge afterward, which is completely normal. A thin panty liner handles this easily. The key ingredients have already been absorbed by your vaginal tissue by the time any residue appears.
Vaginal Suppositories Side Effects
Mild side effects can include slight warmth or tingling during melting, minor discharge, and occasional light irritation as your tissue adjusts to a new product. Most of those side effects resolve within the first few uses.
If you experience persistent burning, itching, or an allergic reaction (significant swelling or rash), stop using the product and contact your healthcare provider. Choosing suppositories that are free of fragrances, parabens, and harsh chemicals minimizes the chance of irritation. Playground's Miracle Melts are hypoallergenic, fragrance-free, and hormone-free for exactly this reason.
Tips for Getting the Best Results
A few practical tips make the whole experience smoother.
Use Them Before Bed
Nighttime insertion gives the suppository hours to work without gravity pulling it out. You'll wake up with well-hydrated tissue and minimal mess.
Be Consistent
For ongoing dryness, using a vaginal moisturizer insert on a regular schedule (such as every 2-3 days) provides better results than occasional use. Consistency allows vaginal tissue to build and maintain hydration over time.
Pair with a Lubricant During Intimacy
Suppositories address daily hydration, but you may still want extra comfort during sex. A water-based personal lubricant or an intimacy oil complements your moisturizing routine and makes intimacy more enjoyable.
Store Them Properly
Keep suppositories in a cool, dry place. Heat can cause them to soften or partially melt in the wrapper, which makes insertion messier. Refrigeration is not usually necessary unless the packaging specifies it. However, they can be refrigerated without concern if you prefer to store them that way.
Better Intimate Health, Better Intimacy with Playground
Vaginal suppositories are one of the most effective ways to deliver hydration directly to vaginal tissue. Playground's Miracle Melts are clinically tested, hormone-free hydrating inserts made with hyaluronic acid to help restore your body's natural comfort. Pair them with Free Love for complete intimate care.
Get our Ultimate Hydration Bundle for daily hydration and intimacy comfort
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. Can you use a vaginal suppository during your period?
You can, but many healthcare providers recommend waiting until your period ends for medication-based suppositories, since menstrual flow can dilute the active ingredients. For hydrating suppositories, use your judgment based on comfort.
Q. How far do you insert a vaginal suppository?
About one to two inches, or roughly as far as your index finger will comfortably reach to the second knuckle. You want the suppository past the vaginal opening but you don't need to push it as deep as possible.
Q. Can you have sex after inserting a vaginal suppository?
Wait at least a few hours after insertion so the suppository has time to fully dissolve and absorb. For hydrating inserts, many women insert them at night and feel the benefits during intimacy the following day.
Q. Will a vaginal suppository fall out?
If inserted deep enough, it generally stays in place, especially when you're lying down. Standing immediately after insertion increases the chance of it shifting, which is why bedtime use is recommended.
Q. Are vaginal suppositories safe during pregnancy?
Only use suppositories during pregnancy if your healthcare provider has specifically recommended them. Some medicated suppositories are not safe during pregnancy, so always check first.
