Is It True That Toilet Paper Can Cause Fungal Infections?

Illustration of toilet paper (Unsplash)

JAKARTA - The use of toilet paper has become a daily necessity for many people. Its main function is to clean oneself after defecating. However, lately there has been a lot of news circulating regarding the hygiene of toilet paper which is considered to be able to cause fungal infections. Is that true?

The use of toilet paper that triggers fungal infections actually refers to tissue that is bleached with chemicals, and has a certain aroma. But regarding this, women's sexual health expert Sherry Ross MD OB/GYN said that in general toilet paper does not cause fungal infections.

"Although everyone has different sensitivities, toilet paper manufacturing practices have built-in safety guidelines to protect people from the absorption of a number of harmful chemicals into the body," said Dr. Ross as quoted by Antara.

This means that not all brands of toilet paper can cause potential irritation. Toilet paper made with fragrances, chlorine bleach, and other potentially harmful tissue additives, such as petroleum-based dyes, can cause skin irritation and discomfort in some people, said Dr. Ross.

These ingredients are more likely to cause mild irritation to the vagina or vulva, in someone who has very sensitive skin or allergies, rather than causing fungal growth.

One older case study from 2010 in Canadian Family Physician did look at a woman whose fungal infection cleared up after switching from bleached to unbleached toilet paper.

However, this is just one case that hasn’t been repeated in over a decade, so more research is needed.

Ross says that unless you’re experiencing itching or irritation or recurrent fungal infections, there’s no reason to ditch your toilet paper or switch to a new brand.

“If you’re having recurrent fungal infections, it’s a good idea to look for brands that are fragrance-free, dye-free, unbleached, or made from natural ingredients to minimize the risk of irritation and discomfort,” she says.

That’s because fungal infections can be caused by (literally) dozens of different things, including your diet, your immune system, and your clothing choices.