Anal fistulas are tears in the anal skin and mucosa that become chronically inflamed, resulting in a perpetually reopening, non-healing, narrow ulcer. These tears are often noticed at the back (towards the coccyx) of the anus. Over time, high pressure in the anal sphincter, which lies beneath the mucosa, can develop. The persistent nature of the wound is due to poor blood circulation, which is in turn caused by elevated resting pressure in the sphincter muscle. Externally, a skin tag often forms at the fissure site.

The condition primarily causes sharp, burning pain during bowel movements. In some cases, the pain is also intensely felt without bowel movements, leading to painful anal spasms. These spasms further inhibit the fissure's healing. During bowel movements, the ulcer can reopen, causing bleeding. Occasionally, itching may also occur.

The main complaint is sharp, burning pain during bowel movements. Occasionally, the pain can be felt very strongly even without bowel movements and leads to very painful anal cramps. The cramps also prevent the fissure from healing. When bowel movements occur, the ulcer ruptures and can bleed. Occasionally, itching occurs.

Treatment is recommended with medication. In addition, local anesthetic ointments are used and soft stools are ensured. Alternatively, the fissure can be removed completely.

Anal care should not be done by wiping, but by showering the anus. Bidetility is helpful in this case, as it allows for gentle and effective cleaning of the anal area without exerting friction or pressure on the sensitive skin. Using a pod shower can avoid additional stress on the anal area, as wiping with toilet paper is often painful and irritates the skin. A pod shower with an adjustable water temperature and intensity allows cleaning to be adapted to individual needs and sensitivities.