How to clean your private parts after urination

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There has always been a debate about which is the best way to clean your private parts after urination: washing with water or wiping with tissues. In this article, we will address this once and for all! Toilet paper or water: which one is better?

1. Why is it neccessary to clean private parts after urination?

We have all been taught about the basics of female hygiene ever since we were little. And one of the most important lessons is that it is crucial to keep our private parts clean after urination. This is something that we have known by heart. But have you ever questioned why it is necessary?

It is clear that when you don’t clean your private parts properly after urination, the remaining urine drops might soak into your underwear. This might cause an offensive odor and a damp, uncomfortable sensation throughout the day. Furthermore, this would build a favourable environment in your underwear for bacteria growth, increasing the risks of urinary tract infection. Therefore, keeping your private part clean after urination is a good habit to prevent those risks. 

Knowing how to properly clean your private parts is important for women.
Knowing how to properly clean your private parts is important for women.

2. How to clean your private parts after urination

Regarding this matter, there are 2 main options for cleaning: washing with water, or wiping with toilet paper. While using water is the preferred habit of many people for cleaning their private parts after urination, wiping with toilet paper is actually the simpler way. So, which one is better?

Wiping with tissues has its own advantages, but there are also some unavoidable inconveniences. Women in many countries usually use toilet paper as a way to clean their private parts after urination. This is an excellent way to absorb all the moistures after using the bathroom. As a damp environment can induce bacteria growth, toilet paper can therefore help keep the private parts dry and clean. Moreover, dry toilet paper can come in handy for women when using public bathroom. However, consuming paper in this way does not only produce a large amount of waste, but the repeated friction against the skin can lead to vaginal irritation, especially in women with sensitive skin. Furthermore, improper use of toilet paper can also promote the spread of bacteria. To prevent this, the most ideal way is to use each piece of paper for an area of your private part, then discard it and use a new one. However, this process can be unnecessary as long as you follow the principle to wipe from your urethral opening towards your anus. If wiping in the reverse direction, bacteria in the rectum can get into the urinary tract, causing urinary tract infection. 

The best way to clean your private part is using water
The best way to clean your private part is using water

For the second option, should people wash their private parts with water? Washing can not only maintain proper hygiene but also prevent bacterial infection of your private part. This method also reduce hand contact (considering the use bidet sprayers), and is thus more hygienic. Water is therefore seen as the most effective way to clean your private parts after urnating. However, not only urine but also clean water can make your private part wet and damp. Therefore, remember to dry it properly after washing to ensure proper cleaning.

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