Anal hygiene

Anal hygiene is the cleaning and care of the anus and surrounding skin after bowel movements and during bathing. It aims to remove stool while limiting irritation and skin damage.

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Perianal skin: The skin surrounding the anus, exposed to moisture, friction, and contact with stool. Its sensitivity explains why gentle cleaning matters more than aggressive scrubbing.
Perianal cleansing: Removal of stool and other residue from the skin surrounding the anus. This is the central daily practice covered by anal hygiene.
Skin barrier: The outer protective function of skin that limits water loss and blocks irritants and microbes. Anal hygiene should preserve this protective layer rather than strip or abrade it.
Anal eczema: Inflammation of the skin around the anus that causes itching, redness, or soreness. Ongoing symptoms may persist despite careful cleaning and need diagnosis.
Toilet paper: Disposable paper used to absorb or remove bodily waste during toileting. Wiping is common, but repeated friction can aggravate perianal skin.
Perineal care: Cleaning and protecting the skin between the genitals and anus, especially for people needing assistance. Care routines often include the anal area as part of a wider skin-care task.
Feces: Waste matter discharged from the digestive tract during defecation. Stool residue is the material routine anal cleaning removes.
Pinworm infection: An intestinal infection by pinworms that commonly causes nighttime itching around the anus. Itching may require treatment of infection, not simply more frequent washing.
Bidet: A plumbing fixture or attachment that directs water to wash the genital or anal area. Water can remove residue with less wiping friction.
Incontinence-associated dermatitis: Inflammatory skin damage caused by prolonged exposure to urine or stool. Prompt cleansing and barrier protection help limit stool-related skin damage.