Is it possible to get an STI from a toilet seat? A doctor reveals

So many of us have wondered whether it is possible to get a sexually transmitted infection (STI) from sitting on a toilet seat or not. Well, it’s time to unravel once and for all.

The simple answer is that you’re not going to catch an STI from a toilet seat. This doesn’t mean that you take your chances with dirty and unhygienic toilets. In the pursuit of not getting an infection, many women end up squatting, instead of sitting. This causes a nuisance because often the toilet seat ends up getting sprinkled with urine.

If you found yourself wondering whether one can catch an STI using a toilet seat, then Dr Tanaya Narendra, known as @dr_cuterus on Instagram, is here to offer her expert advice. She often takes to Instagram to talk about health issues with respect to female reproduction.

Check out her post here:

In her latest post, she talks about the possibility of getting an STI using a toilet seat. She clarifies that luckily, you cannot. In case, your partner has told you that they got chlamydia from a toilet seat, then they are clearly misinformed and/or lying. STIs are infections that you get from sexual contact, be it through oral means or otherwise. They are caused by little bugs, such as bacteria, viruses and even parasites.

These bugs, in order to propagate and live, need warm temperatures. Meaning, that they don’t survive outside the human body, including a toilet seat. Parasites, such as pubic lice, in particular, are unable to survive on the smooth and shiny surface of a toilet seat.

Should one squat on a public seat?

No, while you must take precautions in case the toilet is seemingly and glaringly unhygienic, as other infections may be caught because of the toilet seat. The chances of catching an STI are nil. The only way you can end up catching an STI from a toilet seat is if your butt and/or thigh has cuts.

Certain best practices advised by Dr Tanaya

• Wash your hands regularly to reduce your chances of catching an infection, and also preventing further transmission.
• Avoid taking your personal belongings into the washroom, as they can get dirty and infected.
• Always drop the lid of the toilet seat when you flush.
• Don’t put your bag or other accessories on the floor of the toilet. This will help reduce the chances of you catching other infections that the toilet may be harbouring.

So ladies, be informed, and be cautious when it comes to your personal hygiene and reproductive health!