Discover the unexpected health implications of hovering over public toilet seats and how to stay safe.
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Public restrooms: we all need them, but let’s be honest—most of us would rather avoid them if we could. The grim state of hygiene can send shivers down anyone’s spine, making us hesitate before we even think about sitting down.
But here’s a question that might make you squirm: is hovering above the toilet seat really a safer option? Recent insights from experts suggest that the answer isn’t as straightforward as you might hope.
Understanding the Risks of Hovering
Dr.
Primrose Freestone, a clinical microbiologist at the University of Leicester, has a compelling argument against the hovering method. She points out that choosing to hover can actually heighten your risk of injury and infection. When you squat, your pelvic floor, glutes, back, abs, and hip rotators are all engaged to keep you from falling.
This tension can disrupt the natural flow of urine, leading to incomplete bladder emptying. The result? You might find yourself making more frequent trips to the bathroom, and in some cases, facing a higher risk of bladder infections.
Let’s take a closer look at the pelvic floor’s role here. It’s essential for supporting the bladder during urination. When you’re squatting, those muscles are already under strain. Brianne Grogan, a women’s health physical therapist, emphasizes that this added tension can make it tough for urine to flow freely, often leading to unnecessary pushing. Over time, this habit could contribute to pelvic organ prolapse, particularly for women who might already be at risk due to childbirth.
The Greater Threat: Bathroom Surfaces
Now, here’s the kicker: the actual risk of catching an infection from sitting on a toilet seat is pretty low. Dr. Freestone explains that most intestinal diseases spread through hand-to-mouth contact, often due to fecal contamination of hands, food, and surfaces. Plus, our skin is naturally equipped with protective bacteria and yeast layers that help shield us from many harmful pathogens.
But let’s not get too comfortable just yet. The real danger lurks in the germs that can be found on surfaces in public restrooms. Flushing a toilet can send a plume of tiny droplets flying, some of which travel several feet and settle on surfaces like door handles and toilet paper holders. This is how bacteria, such as E. coli, which is notorious for causing gastrointestinal issues, can make their way into our lives.
Practical Advice for Staying Healthy
So what can you do to protect yourself from these lurking threats? First off, ditch the hovering. Instead, take a seat and relax your pelvic girdle. If cleanliness is a concern, think about using a disposable seat cover or giving the seat a quick wipe with toilet paper before you sit down.
Next, let’s talk hand hygiene. Flushing can send bacteria into the air, making it essential to wash your hands thoroughly after using the restroom. Experts suggest keeping the tap running while you dry your hands and using a paper towel to turn off the faucet to prevent re-contaminating your hands.
And don’t forget about your personal items. It’s no secret that many of us take our phones into the restroom, creating a perfect breeding ground for bacteria. Make it a habit to regularly disinfect your phone with alcohol wipes or soap and water to keep those germs at bay.
Key Takeaways for Safer Restroom Practices
To wrap it all up, while public restrooms can feel a bit daunting, hovering over the toilet seat isn’t the answer. Instead, focus on proper hygiene practices and understanding the real risks associated with these facilities. Here are some actionable steps you can start implementing today:
- Always sit down in public restrooms to avoid straining your pelvic floor.
- Wash your hands thoroughly and consider using a paper towel to turn off the tap.
- Regularly clean your personal items, especially your phone.
- Be mindful of surfaces you touch and avoid direct contact whenever possible.
By following these strategies, you can navigate public restrooms with greater confidence and stay healthier while you’re at it!
