A surgeon has explained the big mistake people make after using the toilet which could result in some painful health issues.
Going for a number two and then using toilet paper just goes hand in hand, doesn't it? But are we doing more harm than good with this form of wiping?
Well, according to leading proctologist Dr Evan Goldstein that's exactly what we're doing, and he's advised against 'traditional wiping'.
On top of that, Dr Goldstein has even greater concerns for those who use wet wipes to ensure their backside is clean.
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The expert provided his thoughts on HuffPost's Am I Doing It Wrong? podcast, where he shared a warning to those who wipe a certain way.
Dr Goldstein explained how skin around the anus is particularly sensitive and that using toilet paper can be a recipe for disaster.
I mean, many of you will be thinking you've used toilet paper all this time and been fine, but the doctor has said wiping in such a way can lead to to irritation, tears and even long-term damage in the most extreme cases.
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And the introduction of wet wipes to the bathroom means Dr Goldstein is seeing such symptoms more commonly.
He said: "They are so terrible - not only for the environment, but for your hole. There's so many companies out there throwing wipes and I think they should all be banned. I see 90 people a week, and I would say one-third of all the people coming through are coming in from wet wipe-induced issues."
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The doctor added: "Think about it - we have good bacteria, we have bad bacteria, but they are in homeostasis. They are in equilibrium. Wet wipes f*** that in a really bad way.
"I see ridiculous dermatitis and bacterial infection [in patients]. Now that they've messed up that microbiome, it's causing so many problems."
Some of the worst symptoms that can come from this include fissures and even fungi growth.
Instead, Dr Goldstein advised using a bidet or hopping in the shower for a quick clean but warned to make sure the area is fully dry afterwards.
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If you have no other choice but to use toilet paper, the surgeon suggested carefully blotting rather than wiping.
Another important step to remember when wiping is that you don't do it more than three times.
In a TikTok video, pelvic floor physiotherapist George, explained: "When you are wiping more than two or three times, that is called faecal smearing.
"So it is essentially when too much faeces matter stays at the entrance of the anus even after you have finished your poo."
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The more you know, eh?
Topics: Health
Callum Jones