Have Pus Filled Boils. What Should I Do For Cure?

Posted on Tue, 19 Feb 2013

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Tue, 19 Feb 2013 Answered on

Mon, 11 Mar 2013 Last reviewed on

Question : I have a boil that will not completely go away. It drains with a very bad smell and then about a week later it returns. What should I do? It's on my bikini line.

Answered by Dr. Dr. Michelle Gibson (33 minutes later)

Hi, thanks for using healthcare magic

Boils start off as infection of the hair follicles that spread to involve surrounding structures.
Normally they respond to home treatment which is the application of heat to encourage drainage as well a antiseptic cleaning.
In some cases however, pockets of pus remain after drainage has occurred and these pockets would then encourage future boil formation.

In that instance , you may need to consult your doctor. He or she would incise the area, breaking down any remaining pockets of pus that are remaining, a swab to determine the exact bacteria involve may be taken and you may be given a course of oral antibiotics to complete to reduce the chances of recurrence further.

I hope this helps, please feel free to ask any other questions

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar

Follow up: Dr. Dr. Michelle Gibson (12 hours later)

I don't have health insurance what kind of doctor should I see and how much do you think it will cost?

Answered by Dr. Dr. Michelle Gibson (9 hours later)

A general practitioner or family doctor will be able to treat you if this is the most cost effective avenue. This can cost up to $150.00.
In some places, there are free clinics available.
I believe, speaking under correction, that you can go to your local medicaid office to see if you qualify for reduced or lower cost care

I hope this helps

Please feel free to ask any other questions

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar