Thread by @sindivanzyl

Is a toilet seat a mode of transmission for an #STI Sexually Transmitted Infection?

No

Is a #UTI Urinary Tract Infection caused by sitting on a toilet seat?

No

The idea that one can get infected by organisms that "jump" from a toilet seat into your body is a myth

What is an #STI Sexually Transmitted Infection?

• infection that is transmitted via condomless sexual contact or close sexual contact

• transmitted via bodily fluids ---> blood, vaginal fluids, semen

• close sexual contact ---> skin-to-skin e.g. pubic lice/genital warts

What is a #UTI Urinary Tract Infection?

• an infection of the urinary system

• urinary system ➡️ kidneys, bladder, urethra

• urine travels from the kidneys, is stored in the bladder, and passed out via the urethra

What causes a #UTI Urinary Tract Infection?

• bacteria found in the vaginal or anal area

• bacteria enters urethra ---> UTI

• does bacteria "jump" from a toilet seat into your urethra? No

Urinary Tract Infections are more common in women

Why?

The urethra is close to the anus. It is easier for bacteria from the anal area to travel into the urethra

This is why we always wipe from front-to-back after using the toilet

Sexual activity may lead to a #UTI Urinary Tract Infection

How?

Bacteria from the anal area could travel into the urethra via a penis, finger, or a sex toy

Pregnancy and the accompanying bodily changes may lead to a #UTI Urinary Tract Infection

Toilet seats do not cause STIs or UTIs