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Recurrent UTIs may be linked to everyday hygiene choices. A urologist explains how toilet paper quality, texture, and fragrance can affect urinary health.
For individuals experiencing recurrent UTIs despite good hygiene and healthy lifestyle habits, reassessing daily hygiene products, including toilet paper, may be worthwhile
Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are commonly linked to poor hygiene, dehydration, or underlying medical conditions. However, an often-overlooked everyday factor may also contribute to recurrent infections, the type of toilet paper we use.
From a clinical perspective, the quality and composition of toilet paper can influence urogenital health, particularly in women. Low-grade or heavily scented toilet paper is frequently manufactured using recycled materials that may contain chemical residues, bleaching agents, or added fragrances. These substances can irritate the sensitive skin around the urethral opening, disrupting the natural protective barrier and making it easier for bacteria such as E. coli to enter the urinary tract.
Dr Prakash Chandra Shetty, Associate Director, Urology, Dr L H Hiranandani Hospital, Powai, Mumbai, explains that texture is another important consideration.
Rough, thin, or easily shredding toilet paper can leave behind microscopic paper particles after wiping. These remnants may retain moisture and bacteria, creating a favourable environment for infection. In individuals with sensitive skin, diabetes, post-menopausal hormonal changes, or compromised immunity, this risk becomes even more significant.
Wiping technique, combined with toilet paper quality, also plays a role. Improper wiping or excessive friction caused by harsh paper can lead to micro-abrasions, increasing susceptibility to bacterial invasion. Additionally, coloured or perfumed toilet paper may alter the natural pH balance of the vulvovaginal area, further raising the risk of infection.
So, what should consumers look for? Opting for soft, unscented, dye-free toilet paper made from virgin pulp or high-quality bamboo fibre is advisable. These options are gentler on the skin and less likely to leave residue. Maintaining proper hygiene practices—such as wiping from front to back, avoiding excessive wiping, and ensuring adequate hydration—remains essential.
For individuals experiencing recurrent UTIs despite good hygiene and healthy lifestyle habits, reassessing daily hygiene products, including toilet paper, may be worthwhile. While it may seem trivial, small changes in everyday choices can play a meaningful role in preventing discomfort and reducing infection risk.
UTI prevention is not just about medication, it is also about mindful hygiene, informed product choices, and awareness of how even simple habits can impact overall health.
January 11, 2026, 11:25 IST