Is Post-Bowel Movement Cleaning Excessive? Anal Hygiene Risks

Post-defecation cleansing?

I usually have bowel movements at home, and after finishing, I clean my anus with water (this has been my habit for many years).
I would like to know if this could be considered excessive cleaning.
I found information online suggesting that over-cleaning can be harmful and may lead to conditions like anal abscess or anal fistula.
Additionally, recently, I sometimes feel a sensation of pressure in the anal area when I cough, similar to the feeling of passing gas, but without actually passing gas.
Is this normal? Sometimes after a bowel movement, I feel a tingling sensation in my anus while walking, but it goes away after a day.
Thank you.

Yu, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/03/26

Dr. Ke Fangxu reply Surgery

1.
Not necessarily.
2.
It is not to say that daily cleaning will completely prevent the occurrence of anal abscesses, as environmental factors, other medical conditions, and immune function also play a role.
3.
This is normal.
4.
Based on your description, it seems to be an anal fissure.
The typical symptoms include pain during bowel movements accompanied by slight bleeding.
The primary cause of anal fissures is usually hard stools, but diarrhea, frequent bowel movements, or prolonged retention of the urge to defecate can also lead to fissures.
It is recommended to improve bowel habits and to take warm sitz baths to alleviate the symptoms.

Reply Date: 2016/03/26

More Info

Maintaining proper anal hygiene after bowel movements is an important aspect of personal care, and your practice of using water to clean the area is quite common in many cultures. However, the question of whether this practice can be considered excessive or potentially harmful is nuanced and requires a deeper understanding of anal hygiene and its implications for health.

Understanding Anal Hygiene
1. Normal Practices: Many people use toilet paper, wet wipes, or water to clean the anal area after defecation. The use of water is often seen as a more thorough method of cleaning, as it can effectively remove fecal matter and reduce the risk of irritation or infection.

2. Excessive Cleaning: While cleanliness is essential, excessive cleaning can lead to irritation of the skin around the anus. The skin in this area is sensitive, and over-washing or using harsh soaps can strip away natural oils, leading to dryness, irritation, or even dermatitis. This can create a cycle where the individual feels the need to clean more due to discomfort, potentially leading to further irritation.

3. Risks of Over-Cleaning: Over-cleaning can indeed lead to complications such as anal fissures (small tears in the anal lining), hemorrhoids, or infections. In rare cases, excessive irritation can contribute to the development of anal abscesses or fistulas, which are more serious conditions requiring medical intervention.

Addressing Your Symptoms
1. Feeling of Pressure or Gas: The sensation of pressure or a feeling similar to passing gas after a bowel movement can be normal. This could be due to residual gas in the intestines or the natural movement of the bowels. If this sensation is accompanied by pain or discomfort, it may warrant further investigation.

2. Soreness After Bowel Movements: Experiencing a "stinging" sensation after a bowel movement can be attributed to several factors, including the consistency of the stool, the technique used during cleaning, or even the presence of hemorrhoids. If the discomfort persists or worsens, it would be advisable to consult a healthcare provider.

Recommendations
- Gentle Cleaning: If you find that your current cleaning method is causing irritation, consider using a gentler approach. This might include using lukewarm water and avoiding soaps that contain fragrances or harsh chemicals.
- Moisturizing: After cleaning, applying a gentle, fragrance-free moisturizer can help maintain skin integrity and prevent dryness.

- Monitor Symptoms: Keep track of any symptoms you experience, such as pain, bleeding, or changes in bowel habits. If these symptoms persist, it’s important to seek medical advice.

- Consult a Professional: If you have concerns about your anal hygiene practices or if you experience ongoing discomfort, consulting a healthcare professional, such as a gastroenterologist or a proctologist, can provide personalized advice and treatment options.

Conclusion
In summary, while your practice of cleaning with water after bowel movements is not inherently excessive, it is essential to be mindful of the potential for irritation. Balancing cleanliness with the health of the skin in the anal area is crucial. If you experience any discomfort or unusual symptoms, do not hesitate to seek medical advice to ensure your practices are safe and effective.

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