Anal itching can interfere with sleep and daily comfort, and can be very disruptive over the long term. If you suffer from rectal itching, here are 5 possible causes of your discomfort.

But first of all, if you've been suffering from anal itching for several weeks, or if it's accompanied by pain or bleeding, we encourage you to consult a doctor for appropriate treatment.

Poor hygiene

It may come as a surprise, but recto-perineal hygiene isn't always a priority in Western societies (so there's nothing to be ashamed of).

Indeed, in many parts of the world, washing after defecation is done with water. Sometimes a pitcher is specifically designed for this purpose: this instrument is called a Lota in India, a Bodna in Bangladesh, or a Tabo in the Philipinnes).

Photo of a Bodna, in a bathroom in Bangladesh

In contrast, Western societies wipe the anus with toilet paper after using the toilet. Contrary to its name, this is not always very... hygienic. It often leaves traces of faecal matter around the anal mucosa. This can lead to the development of bacteria or fungus, which in turn can cause itching.

The solutions are simple:

• If possible, take a shower after using the toilet and clean the anal area with a mild soap andcold water (this will promote circulation and avoid aggravating any inflammation).
• Consider switching to Japanese toilets
• Although less environmentally-friendly, wet toilet paper can also be used.

Note that it's also essential to pat the anal area dry with toilet paper after the enema. Moisture can also cause maceration and bacterial growth, which can aggravate itching.

Hemorrhoids or anal fissures

Anal itching can be linked to inflammation caused by the presence of hemorrhoids or anal fissures.

Hemorrhoids are a network of veins in the rectal area whose inflammation can be caused by a variety of factors, such as a low-fiber diet or poor circulation.

In addition to itching, signs of hemorrhoids can include:

• Bleeding, particularly in cases of defecation 
• Pain, especially during defecation
• A prolapse (a small ball) around the rectal canal

If you suffer from these symptoms, we strongly recommend that you seek medical advice.

You can also turn to :

• Our dietary supplementwhich can help improve transit and circulation, addressing the underlying causes of discomfort.
• Our soothing cream laboratory tests show itssoothing effect on itching

Excessive hygiene

While inadequate hygiene can be the cause of itching, excessive hygiene can be an even more common cause. It can create inflammation and irritation around the anal area, which can lead to itching.

Once again, there are simple, inexpensive solutions to these problems:

• The use of a surgras soap specifically dedicated to intimate hygiene
• Choosing soft toilet paper and fragrance-free toilet paper
• Avoid rubbing too hard, preferring to pat dry with toilet paper.

Contact dermatitis or allergy

Contact dermatitis is most often caused by contact with an irritant. This may be :

• A soap that's too fragrant/abrasive
• An undergarment (often in the case of synthetic undergarments)
• A hygiene product (wipe, etc.)
• An allergy to the detergent used to wash underwear

To address this problem :

• Check which hygiene products or soaps you use contain allergens or fragrances. You can use the Yuka app to detect allergens easily. Try to remove problematic products from your routine.
• Replace your synthetic underwear with natural or organic cotton underwear.
• Replace your washing powder with a more natural product

Of course there's no guarantee that these changes will make the itching go away, but any one of them could be beneficial in soothing it.

Mycoses or fungi

Mycoses can develop around the anal area and cause itching. These can develop particularly when there is maceration or dampness around the anal area.

To avoid them:

• As we've already suggested, dry the anal area well after using the toilet and washing, by patting with toilet paper.
• Change your underwear frequently, especially in hot weather or after strenuous physical activity.

Fungal infections can also be treated with anti-fungals (drugs specially designed to get rid of fungi). If you think you're suffering from fungal infections, consult your doctor or pharmacist, who will be able to prescribe the right treatment for you.

Conclusion

There are many causes of anal itching, and this article is not an exhaustive list. The most common, however, can be treated by simple lifestyle changes: good hygiene when going to the toilet (but not too much), the use of good toilet paper and avoiding irritating or abrasive products.

If you want to improve your recto-perineal health, we recommend the Butt Butter Pack for its soothing effect, and its support for circulation and transit.