Toilet paper safe for intimate hygiene; avoid these habits to prevent infections, expert advises

Contrary to some social media claims, medical experts assert that using clean, plain, unscented tissue paper for intimate hygiene after urinating is safe and does not pose a risk of infection for most women. Dr. Yahya Mohammed, a medical doctor at the National Hospital in Abuja, emphasized that effective intimate hygiene does not necessitate expensive products or excessive cleaning. Instead, he highlighted that certain common habits are far more likely to cause infections than toilet paper itself.

Dr. Mohammed explained that gently drying the genital area with unscented tissue paper after urination is safe and can help reduce moisture that might lead to skin irritation. While mild, fragrance-free wet wipes can be safe, he cautioned against products containing perfumes, alcohol, or harsh chemicals, as these can irritate the delicate vulvar skin. Such irritation, he noted, is often mistakenly identified as an infection. He stressed that routine use of feminine wipes is unnecessary, and washing the external genital area with clean water is sufficient for daily hygiene. For those who prefer soap, mild, fragrance-free cleansers are recommended.

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Clean tissue paper is generally safe, while wet wipes are usually safe if they are non irritating.

The primary cause of urinary tract infections (UTIs), Dr. Mohammed clarified, is bacteria, particularly E. coli from the bowel, entering the urinary tract. He reiterated that clean toilet tissue does not cause UTIs. He advised women to focus on preventative hygiene practices rather than worrying about tissue paper. Key habits to avoid include wiping from back to front, which can transfer bacteria from the anus to the urinary tract, and using colored, scented, or antibacterial wipes, which can cause irritation and allergic reactions.

Dr. Mohammed also noted that while wet wipes might offer comfort during menstruation or for conditions like diarrhea or hemorrhoids, they should not replace regular washing with clean water. The focus, he concluded, should be on preventing harmful bacteria from reaching the urinary tract through proper hygiene practices.

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Wiping from back to front after using the toilet can transfer bacteria from the anus to the urinary tract.