Health
Hygiene is important for good anal health. Washing with a mild soap and water will keep the anus clean. Harsh soaps or wiping vigorously with toilet paper can irritate the skin around the anus, making it itchy or sore. Pinworms are sometimes the source of anal itching.
Care should be taken not to strip the anus of natural oils that keep the skin around the opening supple and elastic.
Penetration with a penis or sex toy can irritate or tear the inside of the anus. Lubrication is often recommended to ease penetration. The risk of injury to the anal sphincter should be a concern. Similarly if the anus is torn, this can occasionally cause a fistula formation which can not only cause fecal leaking, but also can be very difficult to treat.
Sphincter exercise can improve the tone of the outer sphincter muscle.
Read more about this topic: Human Anus
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—Constitution of the World Health Organization.
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