In memory of Chaya Mirel bat R’ Avraham

In memory of Chaya Mirel bat R' Avraham

Barely managed clean hefsek
December 14, 2015

Question

This past Wednesday was the final day of my period. It normally takes me a few tries to get a clean hefseq taharah. It's epecially hard when sunset is so early. On Wednesday I was rushing before sunset and I did a whole bunch of bedikot. All of them had some red on them. The very last one just before sunset came out clean (probably because I was so dry already), and I counted it. Later that night I saw pink on toilet paper (I am sephardic and normally toilet paper doesn't count). I didn't have a hargasha. But I still feel as if I pushed it to be on Wednesday. Not sure what to do.

Answer

Based on your description, you may continue counting your clean days from your Wednesday hefsek. Since your final hefsek was acceptable, and the toilet paper may be disregarded, you may continue with your count. In general, we do not recommend making numerous attempts at a hefsek, since it could irritate you (which is possibly the source of the staining you later found on toilet paper). However a clear hefsek is valid even if found after repeated attempts.
For the future, you may find it helpful to clean yourself out well prior to performing the hefsek to clean out any old blood. If you have time, you can take a warm bath. Even if you are rushing, you can clean internally with a wet bedikah cloth. It is best to do this at least 20 minutes before attempting a hefsek to give your natural secretions time to return and reduce the risk of irritation.
Please feel free to get back to us with any further questions.
B'Hatzlacha!

 

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