Digestive Disorders Health Center

To prevent rectal problems:

• Use white, unscented toilet paper.
• Do not use scented soaps, such as Irish Spring and Coast, which can irritate skin.
• Practice good hygiene. Gently wipe the area with toilet paper after each bowel movement. If irritation starts, use water-soaked cotton balls to clean the area and then pat the area dry with dry cotton balls. Premoistened pads, such as Tucks or "baby wipes," may be less irritating.
• Do not sit on the toilet for long periods of time.
• Eat a high-fiber diet that includes plenty of fruits and vegetables and bran cereal every day.
• Avoid foods that can cause rectal problems. Examples of such foods include:
  • Regular or diet cola.
  • Coffee.
  • Beer and other alcoholic beverages.
  • Dairy products.
  • Any other items that you know cause you to have gas or indigestion.
• Avoid constipation. For more information, see the topic Constipation, Age 11 and Younger or Constipation, Age 12 and Older.
• Avoid diarrhea. For more information, see the topic Diarrhea, Age 11 and Younger or Diarrhea, Age 12 and Older.