No matter what stage of the cancer journey you are in, maintaining personal hygiene improves quality of life and contributes to your long-term health. In general, and during phases of treatment when patients can use the toilet, a smart bidet is ideal for cleansing with water instead of paper. And if you hear the word bidet and imagine a separate unit next to your toilet, think again! Many modern bidet seats install directly on your toilet bowl and feature smart technology that’s easy to operate, giving you customizable options for a superior feeling of clean.

Benefits of Bidets for Colorectal Cancer

They are ideal for those experiencing the effects of this cancer and its treatment.

• Hands-free use; remote buttons are easy to press
• No twisting or bending to reach toilet paper
• Heated seat; comfortable to sit for longer periods
• Water pressure can be effective in reducing the discomfort of constipation
• Superior cleansing for diarrhea issues
• Increased personal freshness for those wearing pads
• Gentle water pressure for sensitive skin

How Do They Work?

Bidets cleanse you with a gentle stream of water. Many feature remote operation with buttons that press easily, allowing you to select functions without touching the seat before or after use. The remote provides a range of wash options, water temperature and pressure, and spray patterns.

The nozzle setting lets you choose the ideal position – front or posterior – for targeted cleansing, and the UV self-cleaning function automatically cleanses the nozzle after use for an additional measure of hygiene.

A warm-air dryer provides soothing warmth for sensitive skin, along with a heated seat that offers comfort for people with sensitive skin.

What Are Other Benefits?

Studies have found that using a bidet properly can decrease the amount of bacteria found in urine, along with limiting the spread of germs. Because wiping is reduced, hands also stay cleaner.

Environmental benefits include saving toilet paper. Manufacturing one roll alone can consume 37 gallons of water, and this doesn’t account for the chlorine used to whiten the paper and the plastic that toilet paper is often packaged in.

Using a bidet also helps preserve forests and conserve water. Approximately 27,000 trees are harvested each day to make toilet paper, and Business Insider magazine estimates that investing in a bidet can lower toilet paper spending by 75%.

A Bidet Option on a Secure, Raised Toilet Seat

Post-surgery discomfort can make you reconsider how badly you really need to use the toilet. If you hesitate because of pain lowering onto the seat, or if twisting to wipe aggravates your incision site, there are products that alleviate this.

One is the Bemis Independence Assurance raised toilet seat with a personal wash bidet. The seat itself is 3” and comes with Support Arms for additional security. The bidet operates with a twist knob that controls water flow and stream strength. Together, the seat-and-bidet combo is ideal for easing discomfort and making personal cleansing easier and more effective.

For more information about colorectal cancer, understanding treatment and advocacy options, please visit Fight Colorectal Cancer.