Can bidet irritate urethra?

Author: Leta Oberbrunner  |  Last update: Thursday, April 3, 2025

Can a Bidet Cause UTIs? A handful of studies have looked at the relationship between bidet use and UTIs. To date, there's been no conclusive evidence that bidets cause UTIs.

Can a bidet give you a urinary tract infection?

There's little evidence that bidets cause UTIs when used correctly. Using a handheld sprayer, spray from front to back to avoid introducing fecal matter near the urethra, just as you would wipe front to back. Bidet seats and attachment sprayers won't pose any issues.

Can a bidet cause irritation?

Excessive bidet use may cause itching of the anus[13].

What are the side effects of a bidet?

It can hurt and may lead to issues like anal fissures or even incontinence if used improperly or for prolonged periods. Studies have linked excessive pressure to these problems. For safe and effective use, opt for a steady, moderate stream instead of a strong jet.

Can baths irritate urethra?

Bacteria grow more quickly in warm and hot water. Our doctors may recommend avoiding hot tubs and taking showers instead of baths. The soap in bubble baths can irritate the urinary tract and should be avoided.

Can bidets cause BV?

How do you soothe an irritated urethra?

Treatment
  1. drinking plenty of water.
  2. emptying the bladder frequently.
  3. consuming a healthful amount of vitamin C each day to increase urine acidity and prevent bacterial growth.
  4. avoiding spicy, acidic, and sugary foods, which can irritate the bladder.
  5. applying heat to the pubic area to relieve pain.

Why is my urethra so irritated?

Urethritis is when the tube that carries pee from the bladder out of the body (urethra) becomes swollen and sore. It's often caused by a sexually transmitted infection (STI). It's important to get it treated to avoid it spreading to other people. Gonococcal urethritis is when the infection is caused by gonorrhoea.

Is there a downside to using a bidet?

Con #1: Bidets may pose health concern for people with vaginas. Although some benefits are clear, as noted, there are potential downsides, especially if you have a vagina. “Bidets may mess with the health ecosystem of bacteria called Lactobacillus microflora in your vagina,” Dr. Rea said.

Should I use the bidet every time I pee?

Should you use a bidet after peeing? You can if you want to! Most people use bidets after pooping, but it's totally fine to use one after you pee. Some people enjoy using a bidet while they're menstruating since it can really help clean your genital area.

How should a woman use a bidet?

Adjust the position of the bidet nozzle to ensure proper cleansing. Position yourself on the bidet seat, ensuring comfort and stability. Activate the water spray by pressing the appropriate button or lever. After cleansing, activate the built-in air dryer, and you are ready.

What do doctors say about bidets?

It's important to follow usage instructions, though, particularly with jet stream pressure and water temperature. “But if it's working properly and you clean and sanitize it regularly, a bidet is a good alternative option for many people,” says Dr. Lee.

Is it bad to use bidet like enema?

Using a bidet as an enema is safe and effective and is one of the reasons we designed the Vortex Wash. Sometimes called the “Bio Bidet Enema Function,” the Vortex Wash is a specialized water stream that concentrates water into a stronger, jet-like spray.

Can a bidet injure you?

Because of the importance of bathroom hygiene and proper cleaning of soiled areas after bowel movement, the demand for bidets has increased. However, inappropriate use of bidets can damage the colonic mucosa. Here, we report a case of rectal mucosal damage due to inappropriate bowel cleansing habits using a bidet.

Can wiping from back to front cause a UTI?

This study looks at the incidence of urinary tract infections and the method of perineal hygiene used after urination. Wiping back to front is associated with a greater risk of developing urinary tract infection than wiping front to back.

Can a bidet cause pain?

Anal Pruritus: Excessive or vigorous use of the bidet can irritate the delicate skin around the anus, leading to itching and discomfort known as anal pruritus. This irritation can be exacerbated by using harsh soaps or detergents on the bidet nozzle.

Can you use a bidet too much?

While some studies have found that excessive use of bidets can lead to anal pruritus, or anal itching, and anal incontinence, and the bidet's nozzle surface can become contaminated with bacteria, possibly leading to infection, users of bidets swear by their effectiveness and ease-of-use.

How can I use a bidet without getting a UTI?

How to Use a Bidet Without Getting a UTI
  1. Go Electric. While non-electric bidets are a step up from wiping, we don't recommend them – especially if you're dealing with any kind of health issue. ...
  2. Keep It Clean. ...
  3. Practice Water Safety. ...
  4. Mind the Placement and Pressure. ...
  5. Don't Drip Dry.

Do bidets contribute to UTIs?

There is no direct causation between the two. However, to reduce the risk of catching UTI from bidet toilet use, there are some best practices you should follow for optimal hygiene and UTI prevention. Proper Bidet Cleaning and Maintenance: To maintain its hygiene, regularly clean your bidet.

Why did we stop using bidets?

It's clear that the widespread use of bidets in many countries has its advantages. The lack of popularity in the UK and US likely has to do with a combination of factors: unfamiliarity, lack of space, cost, and more.

Can a bidet aggravate hemorrhoids?

For example, if the water pressure and temperature are inappropriate or if you don't dry the area thoroughly after cleaning, a bidet can potentially worsen hemorrhoid symptoms.

Do people dry off after using a bidet?

While most bidet users dry off with a small amount of toilet paper, sustainability-focused bidet owners use a dedicated cloth or towel. Bidet towels are a great way to reduce your home's environmental impact even more!

Why is my urethra burning but no UTI?

Other common causes of painful urination include sexually transmitted infections, genital herpes, bladder and kidney stones, and soaps, perfumes, and other personal care products that irritate.

How can I soothe my urethra?

Take an over-the-counter pain medicine, such as acetaminophen (Tylenol), ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin), or naproxen (Aleve), if needed. Be safe with medicines. Read and follow all instructions on the label. Do not take two or more pain medicines at the same time unless the doctor told you to.

How do you heal an irritated urethra?

If you have a bacterial infection, you will be given antibiotics. You may take both pain relievers for general body pain and products for localized urinary tract pain, plus antibiotics. People with urethritis who are being treated should avoid sex, or use condoms during sex.

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