Is your toilet paper increasing the risk of UTI and other health issues? Why it might be time to rethink that “bright white” roll

Most people never question their toilet paper. It’s soft, it’s white, it smells fresh and that’s all that seems to matter. But according to Dr. Tarek Pacha, a board-certified surgeon who’s made it his mission to challenge the status quo in intimate health, your bathroom routine might be exposing you to hidden toxins that can quietly harm your body.

“Think about it,” says Dr. Pacha. “Trees are brown. To make white toilet paper, companies have to bleach wood pulp, and that involves chlorine gas.” When chlorine reacts with the organic matter in pulp, it creates dioxins-- highly toxic chemical compounds known as persistent organic pollutants-(POPs). The World Health Organization has labeled dioxins part of the “dirty-dozen” — a group of the most dangerous pollutants known to science because they don’t break down easily in the environment or inside the human body.

Why should that worry you? These chemicals build up over time. Studies have linked long-term dioxin exposure to immune system suppression, hormone imbalance, developmental issues, infertility-and even certain cancers. While a single wipe doesn’t cause harm, the repeated, daily exposure through intimate contact adds up — especially for women.

Soft, super-fluffy toilet paper often seems luxurious-but that silky texture comes at a cost. To make paper strong enough to hold together when wet, manufacturers use formaldehyde-based resins. Formaldehyde is the same chemical used in funeral homes to preserve bodies. It’s a well-documented irritant-and potential carcinogen.
“People don’t realize how quickly chemicals can be absorbed through mucous membranes,” explains Dr. Pacha. “The vulva-and urethra are much more porous than regular skin. So, when you wipe these areas with paper treated with bleach--and formaldehyde, those substances don’t just sit on the surface — they can be absorbed into the body.”

In his clinic, Dr. Pacha often meets women who believe they’re suffering from chronic urinary tract infections. They describe constant itching, burning--and discomfort, yet their lab cultures repeatedly come back negative. “In many of these cases, it’s not an infection at all,” he says. “It’s a reaction — a chemical burn caused by the toilet paper they’re using.”

Repeated irritation can damage the protective barrier of the vulva-and urethra, leaving tissue raw or inflamed. Over time, this can increase sensitivity--and lead to more frequent, painful symptoms even when no infection is present. Many women find themselves trapped in a frustrating cycle — changing soaps, taking antibiotics, even altering diets — without realizing the trigger is sitting right next to their toilet.

Thankfully, it’s easy to make a switch. Dr. Pacha recommends unbleached or bamboo-based toilet paper, which skips chlorine bleaching--and uses safer, natural fibers. These options reduce chemical exposure and are often softer and more sustainable.

If you want to take it a step further, consider installing a bidet. “Water is the most natural cleanser,” says Dr. Pacha. “It doesn’t contain chemicals, it’s gentle--and it actually leaves you cleaner.” Bidets also reduce paper use, benefitting both personal health and the environment.

This issue goes beyond comfort-it’s about awareness. Everyday products that seem harmless can sometimes carry hidden health costs, so much so that over time they become irreversible, if not treated at the right time. By choosing toxin-free products, you’re not only protecting your skin-and microbiome but also reducing your body’s exposure to pollutants that can accumulate over time.

“Healthy choices lead to a stronger you,” Dr. Pacha reminds. “Something as small as switching your toilet paper can make a meaningful difference in how you feel.”

Your bathroom habits may seem inconsequential, but they’re part of your overall health picture. Pay attention to what touches your skin every day — your body will thank you for it.