Ask a Yoetzet Golda Koschitzky Hotline

Wait required after bowel movement?

3 March, 2012

Question:

With regards to finding a kesem on toilet paper, I was wondering if the rule of waiting at least a few seconds before wiping only applies after urinating or for a bowel movement as well?

Thank you

Answer:

It applies specifically after urinating, as urinating may mask a sensation of menses. A bowel movement’s sensations are in a more clearly distinct region of the body. In practice, a woman who has a bowel movement after urinating generally waits at least a few seconds for that reason alone.

Please write back with any further questions.

This response was updated on 4 February, 2024.

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