Surgeon's Guide to Proper Bathroom Hygiene: Why Wiping Might Be Wrong
You have likely heard the old adage that nothing is certain except death and taxes, but according to medical experts, there is another inevitable activity: cleaning up after using the bathroom. Since this is a universal necessity, what is the most effective and safest technique? Dr. Evan Goldstein, a nationally recognized anal surgeon and founder of Bespoke Surgical, provides surprising insights that challenge conventional wisdom.
The Problem with Traditional Wiping
Dr. Goldstein states that the ideal method for cleaning after bowel movements is not wiping at all. He explains the anatomical reasons behind this recommendation. "When you're looking at someone's anus, to the left and the right are these wrinkles — it's like an accordion. It opens. It closes," he describes. "The front and the back — towards the vaginal or penile area, or the tailbone — the skin there is not wrinkled. It's very thin."
This delicate tissue becomes vulnerable during routine wiping. "When we wipe, where do we wipe? Usually front to back — thin skin! We all wipe so much, so what happens over time? People tear the skin. It gets irritated. It gets angry at us," Goldstein warns. The repetitive friction can lead to chronic irritation and damage.
Superior Alternatives to Toilet Paper
Instead of relying on toilet paper, Goldstein advocates for water-based cleaning methods. "I'm a huge bidet fan," he emphasizes, noting that bidets thoroughly cleanse the area without causing abrasion. For those without bidet access, he suggests a quick shower or rinse. Crucially, he adds, "You always want to make sure you're drying yourself," as residual moisture can also provoke irritation.
This advice leads to his strong stance against wet wipes. "They are so terrible — not only for the environment, but for your hole," Goldstein asserts. "There's so many companies out there throwing wipes and I think they should all be banned. I see 90 people a week in my surgical office, and I would say one-third of all the people coming through are coming in from wet wipe-induced issues."
The Microbiome Disruption Caused by Wet Wipes
The surgeon explains that wet wipes can severely disrupt the natural bacterial balance around the anus. "Think about it — we have good bacteria, we have bad bacteria, but they are in homeostasis. They are in equilibrium. Wet wipes mess that up in a really bad way," he states. This imbalance can lead to conditions like dermatitis and bacterial infections. "Now that you've messed up that microbiome, it's causing so many problems," Goldstein observes.
Proper Technique If You Must Wipe
For individuals who continue using toilet paper, Goldstein recommends a gentle blotting motion rather than vigorous wiping. He also advises adopting a "standing squat" position during cleanup. "The longer you're sitting on the bowl, the more blood down there, the more wiping, the more irritation. The body senses that," he explains. Standing up reduces blood flow and pressure to the sensitive area.
"So, you poop, wipe once or twice while seated, finish standing up. Why? The blood starts to leave when you stand up. The mechanism starts to go back to the normal, daily position," Goldstein clarifies. Some may find standing wiping challenging, but he notes, "We don't need to go all up in there. If you are going all up in there, we need to go back to diet and fiber and pre- and probiotics, and thinking about better strategies."
The Gut-Butt Health Connection
Goldstein highlights a fundamental principle: "It's not butt health; it's gut health. If you have gut health, you will automatically have butt health." This underscores the importance of dietary factors like fiber and probiotics in maintaining overall digestive and anal wellness. During his discussion, he also covered optimal pooping positions, characteristics of healthy stools, and additional hygiene tips.
Proper bathroom hygiene extends beyond mere cleanliness; it involves protecting delicate tissues, preserving microbial balance, and understanding the interplay between diet and rectal health. By adopting these evidence-based practices, individuals can avoid common irritations and promote long-term wellness in this essential yet often overlooked aspect of personal care.
