In a world where many of us have our bathroom habits set in stone, one expert is challenging our routines. If you’re someone who finds yourself wiping excessively after a bowel movement, there’s some advice you might want to pay attention to. According to a recent TikTok video shared by BIEN Australia, a pelvic floor physiotherapist has some insights on why you should limit your wiping to just three times.
The Surprising Advice on Bathroom Hygiene
The TikTok video, which has gained significant attention, features a pelvic floor specialist explaining that wiping more than two or three times is actually counterproductive. The expert begins by addressing a common issue: many people experience what she refers to as “fecal smearing,” which happens when stool remnants linger at the anal opening even after finishing your business.
The physiotherapist reassures viewers that needing to wipe excessively isn’t necessarily a sign of poor hygiene but rather an indication that there might still be stool left at the anal entrance. To tackle this issue, she introduces a technique designed to help minimize the need for multiple wipes.
The “Waterfall” Pelvic Floor Technique
The key to reducing excessive wiping, according to the expert, lies in a controlled muscle contraction technique. She advises using what she calls a “waterfall” squeeze pattern of the pelvic floor muscles. The process involves gradually increasing the muscle squeeze—starting at 20%, then 50%, followed by 80%, and finally reaching 100%. By doing these controlled squeezes at the end of your bowel movement, you can close off the anal sphincter more effectively.
This technique helps clear out any remaining stool and prevents it from lingering, which is often the culprit behind the need for extra wipes. The issue, she explains, is often due to a weakness in the external sphincter muscle, which can leave small traces of stool that result in fecal smearing.
Addressing Underlying Issues
While the “waterfall” technique can be a game-changer for some, the expert also acknowledges that it may not be effective for everyone. Factors like hemorrhoids, scar tissue, or other anal health issues can make wiping more difficult and may require additional medical attention. If you’re still struggling with excessive wiping despite trying this technique, it might be time to consult a healthcare professional for a more thorough evaluation.
Why Over-Wiping Is Problematic
You might wonder why wiping more than three times is such a big deal. According to the expert, excessive wiping can lead to irritation and damage to the delicate skin around the anal area. Frequent wiping with rough toilet paper can cause micro-tears, which can be painful and may even lead to infections if left untreated.
By reducing the number of times you wipe, you’re not only saving toilet paper but also protecting the sensitive skin in that area. If you find that three wipes aren’t enough, it could indicate that there’s a bigger issue at play, such as diet, hydration, or pelvic floor dysfunction.
What TikTok Users Are Saying
The TikTok video sparked a lively discussion in the comments section, with users sharing their own experiences and challenges. Some joked about their struggles with excessive wiping, while others expressed curiosity about trying the pelvic floor technique. One commenter humorously mentioned how having a “hairy situation” makes it harder to limit wiping to just three times.
The expert’s advice has clearly resonated with viewers, who appreciate her practical tips for improving their bathroom habits. The video not only provides a solution to a common issue but also highlights the importance of understanding our bodies better.
Practical Tips for a Cleaner Bathroom Routine
In addition to the pelvic floor technique, here are a few tips to improve your bathroom experience and reduce the need for excessive wiping:
- Hydrate Well: Drinking plenty of water helps soften stool, making it easier to pass without leaving residue behind.
- Eat Fiber-Rich Foods: A diet rich in fiber can help ensure smoother bowel movements, reducing the need for repeated wiping.
- Consider a Bidet: Using a bidet or moist wipes can help clean the area more effectively than dry toilet paper alone.
- Check Your Posture: Squatting or using a footstool can help align your body for a more complete bowel movement.
The Bigger Picture: Hygiene and Health
The conversation around wiping habits may seem trivial, but it underscores a larger point about personal hygiene and health. Many people may not realize that their bathroom routines could be causing more harm than good. The pelvic floor expert’s advice serves as a reminder that sometimes less is more—especially when it comes to wiping.
By adopting the suggested techniques and making small adjustments to our routines, we can not only improve our hygiene but also protect the sensitive skin around the anal area. If you’re experiencing persistent issues, it’s always a good idea to seek advice from a healthcare professional to rule out any underlying health concerns.
Final Thoughts
At first glance, the advice to limit wiping may sound unusual, but it’s rooted in the goal of promoting better health. By following the expert’s tips and focusing on a more mindful bathroom routine, you can potentially avoid irritation and discomfort.
The next time you find yourself reaching for more toilet paper, remember the “waterfall” technique and see if it makes a difference. After all, small changes can lead to a cleaner, more comfortable experience—and who wouldn’t want that?
Have you tried reducing the number of wipes after using the bathroom? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below!
