In urban areas, the use of sitting toilets is more common than squat toilets. In fact, when viewed from a health perspective, the use of squat toilets is actually more recommended.
The toilet seat began to be known and used by the public in the mid-19th century. Since then, the use of squat toilets has been replaced by sitting toilets. However, some people living in Asian, African and some European countries still use squat toilets to defecate.
Pro-Cons of Sitting Toilets and Squatting Toilets
The debate about which is healthier between the toilet seat and the toilet squat still continues. However, a study says that defecating in a squatting position or using a squat toilet is easier than sitting. This is because the squatting position can make the puborectalis muscles relax, making it easier to pass stool or feces.
Other studies also mention the advantages of using a squat toilet over a sitting toilet. In the study, it was revealed that a slight emphasis on the stomach while squatting could facilitate defecation. This is what may cause the use of a squat toilet is more recommended than a sitting toilet.
Toilet DSit More Risky Mcause Ddermatitis
In the past, toilet seats were often thought to cause contact dermatitis, which is characterized by skin irritation around the thighs and buttocks. Irritation may be caused by the material the toilet seat is made of. The toilet seat that uses wood that has been varnished and painted is claimed to be the cause of skin irritation.
To reduce this risk in the 1980s, the use of wooden toilet seats began to be replaced with plastic materials. These changes have led to a drastic decline in cases of toilet seat dermatitis.
On the other hand, dermatitis caused by sitting on the toilet seat can also be caused by chemicals from the cleaning products used to clean the facility. Alkyl dimethyl benzyl ammonium chloride didecyl and dimethyl ammonium chloride are examples of two ingredients that have been shown to cause skin irritation.
Besides being more at risk of causing dermatitis, toilet seats can also be a gathering place for various disease-causing bacteria, such as:
- E. coli causes of diarrhea.
- S. aureus cause pneumonia or skin disease.
- Streptococcus causes of throat disorders.
While viruses such as HIV and herpes are often scary for most people, generally will not last long outside the human body, including toilet seats. Plus this viral infection can only occur if you have an open sore on the part that comes into contact with the toilet seat.
Toilet Dsit down Lmore Brisk Mcause Hemorrhoids
Medically, it turns out that there is an assumption that squat toilets are healthier than sitting toilets. Sitting too long while urinating on the toilet seat can apparently cause hemorrhoids or swollen blood vessels. This is due to increased pressure in the blood vessels in the lower gastrointestinal tract.
Hemorrhoids are characterized by the following symptoms:
- Itching or pain in the anus
- Pain during bowel movements (BAB)
- There is a soft lump near the anus
- bloody stool.
How to Maintain Cleanliness When Using the Toilet
Whether using a squat toilet or a sitting toilet, it is important to maintain good toilet hygiene. This aims to minimize the risk of exposure to disease-causing bacteria, especially when using public toilets.
In keeping the toilet clean, here are things you can do:
- Use a toilet seat cleaner before going to the bathroom, especially in public toilets. These cleaning products are generally in the form of a spray that is applied to the toilet seat and can then be wiped with a tissue.
- You can also use a toilet seat cover or tissue to prevent your skin from coming into direct contact with the toilet seat.
- Flushing water that is usually used to dispose of feces in the toilet also has the risk of spraying bacteria to other areas of the toilet such as the floor or walls. Therefore, cover the toilet when rinsing. Also, avoid putting your bag or luggage on the toilet floor when you pee. Place your items on the hangers usually provided on the wall or door.
When using the toilet seat, it is recommended to use a tissue when opening and closing or when pressing the rinse button. This is because the faucet on the sink and the button to flush, are areas where bacteria often gather.
Lastly, don't forget to wash your hands after using public toilet facilities. Because bacteria in the toilet can stick to your hands and move to your mouth. Then don't forget to dry it properly. If you choose to use a tissue, you should use a tissue that is stored in a closed place.
