Anal fistulas: causes, treatment and gentle care with the intimate shower

Anal Fistulas: Causes, Symptoms, Treatment & Care With a Butt Shower

Anal fistulas are among the most common proctological conditions and can cause severe discomfort if left untreated. Here you'll learn how a fistula develops, which symptoms are typical, who treats it – and how aftercare gets easier with water instead of paper.

“Caring for the butt and for anal wounds is made much easier by a butt shower, because a butt shower makes it far simpler to clean inflamed skin.”

- Dr. med. Daniel Paul Sterzing, specialist in proctology

What Are Anal Fistulas?

An anal fistula is an inflamed tunnel between the anal canal or rectum and the skin around the anus. It usually develops out of an anal abscess, meaning a collection of pus.

An anal fistula generally doesn't heal on its own. Recurring inflammation and abscesses in the same spot are typical. That's why complaints around the anus belong in a proctology practice – always have blood, severe pain, fever or persistent symptoms checked by a doctor.

Typical Symptoms of Anal Fistulas

• Weeping or discharge of pus and fluid from a small opening next to the anus
• Pain around the anus
• Swelling
• Irritated or itchy skin
• Recurring abscesses

These symptoms can seriously affect quality of life and should be examined by a doctor. What exactly is behind them can only be determined in an examination, not on the internet.

Anal Abscess: How Are Abscess and Fistula Connected?

The main cause of an anal fistula is a collection of pus (abscess) in the anal area. This often develops from a bacterial infection of the proctodeal glands, which sit between the internal and external sphincter.

Over time, a fistula tract forms that drains the pus to the outside. Without treatment, this tract remains and causes persistent discomfort.

Treatment Options for Anal Fistulas

How an anal fistula is treated is decided by the proctologist – often a procedure is necessary. It generally doesn't heal on its own.

Careful aftercare is important following surgery. Your treating practice will discuss the details with you.

Gentle Anal Care With the Butt Shower

The right care is crucial – especially after surgery or with existing fistulas. Paper rubs. Water doesn't. A butt shower therefore means:

• Cleaning with water instead of paper, so no rubbing
• More pleasant for irritated skin – your treating practice will tell you how to care for the wound after surgery
• Ideal for people with sensitive or inflamed skin

Tip: Use only clear, lukewarm water – skip soaps and perfumed products.

Toilet Stool: Naturally Easier on the Toilet

Another tip for complaints around the anus is using a toilet stool. It creates a squatting position, which means:

• the anorectal angle is optimized
• bowel movements are easier and more complete
• unnecessary pressure on the anal area is avoided

With a toilet stool, many people have to push less – which can be a lot more comfortable, especially after surgery.