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.
