In 2015, researchers from The Society of Korean Medicine Obstetrics and Gyneocology published a study that aimed to explore the therapeutic effect of vaginal steaming on leukorrhea (irregular vaginal discharge). A total of 16 patients participated in the study who completed a questionnaire giving their symptoms a number score before and after treatment. Out of the 16 patients 7 of them also had vaginitis (inflammation of the vagina possibly with pain, itchiness and burning sensation). All of the patients were treated with vaginal steaming in addition to other Korean medicine modalities such as acupuncture, herbal medicine, and moxibustion.
Results: All 16 participants had a significant decrease in quantity and odor of irregular vaginal discharge, itchiness, dryness, burning sensations and menstrual pain. They also saw marked improvements with sleep and urination. Zero side effects were experienced.