Most people probably don’t give too much thought to how many times they wipe after going to the toilet. But according to one pelvic floor expert, wiping more than three times isn’t just unnecessary—it could actually cause problems.
In a viral TikTok video that has racked up more than four million views, pelvic floor physiotherapist George broke down the dos and don’ts of wiping after a number two. And her advice might surprise you.
The problem with over-wiping
George explained:
“When you are wiping more than two or three times, that is called faecal smearing. So it is essentially when too much faeces matter stays at the entrance of the anus even after you have finished your poo.”
She went on to explain that smearing often happens when the external anal sphincter isn’t closing properly, leaving small amounts of stool lingering after a bowel movement.
The technique to avoid it
Fortunately, there’s a simple exercise you can try. George recommends using what she calls the “waterfall technique” to strengthen and control the pelvic floor:
- Squeeze the anus at 20% strength
- Increase to 50%
- Then 80%
- Finally, 100%
This four-step squeeze at the end of a bowel movement helps close the sphincter properly, reducing the need for endless wiping.
Why excessive wiping is a bad idea
Reaching for the toilet paper again and again doesn’t just waste time and money—it can actually damage sensitive tissue. George warned that haemorrhoids or even scar tissue around the anus can result from over-wiping.
Her bottom line: if irritation or symptoms don’t go away, it’s best to seek medical advice.
The internet reacts
As expected, the unusual topic sparked plenty of jokes in the TikTok comments. One viewer quipped:
“My problem is I’m as hairy as Chewbacca. It’s like wiping peanut butter off a Persian rug.”
Others simply longed for the days when TikTok was all about dances instead of toilet habits.
Still, George’s advice may change the way you approach your bathroom routine—and if it saves you a few rolls of toilet paper along the way, that’s just a bonus.