Let’s be honest—most of us have had those frustrating moments in the bathroom where it feels like no matter how many times we wipe, we just can’t seem to get clean. Whether it’s three wipes, five, or even more, it can be both annoying and uncomfortable. But according to one expert, if you find yourself wiping more than three times after a bowel movement, it could be a sign that something isn’t quite right. A viral TikTok video featuring Georgia Reupert-Allen, a pelvic floor physiotherapist from BIEN Australia, has stirred up conversation by shedding light on this surprisingly common issue. Reupert-Allen, who specializes in women’s health and pelvic floor therapy, explains that wiping excessively is often due to a condition known as fecal smearing. This happens when small amounts of stool remain at the anus after a bowel movement, leading to repeated wiping in an attempt to feel clean. The problem isn’t necessarily your hygiene or how you’re wiping—it might actually be how your body is functioning during the process.

So what causes this smearing to happen in the first place? According to Reupert-Allen, it often has to do with how well your pelvic floor muscles are working. If those muscles aren’t engaging properly, the external anal sphincter—the muscle responsible for closing off the anus—may not fully close or expel the stool efficiently. That’s where her suggested technique comes in. Reupert-Allen recommends something called “progressive pelvic floor muscle squeezing.” Although the name might sound technical or even intimidating, the technique itself is actually quite straightforward. While you’re finishing your bowel movement, she suggests engaging your pelvic floor muscles in a gradual, waterfall-like sequence. You start by gently squeezing those muscles at about 20% of your strength, then gradually increase the squeeze to 50%, then 80%, and finally to 100%. Repeat this sequence about four times. This method helps the anal sphincter close properly and ensures that any remaining stool is fully expelled, potentially reducing or even eliminating the need for repeated wiping.

But what if you try the technique and you’re still finding yourself wiping endlessly? Reupert-Allen says not to worry—it could be something else, like hemorrhoids or scar tissue, contributing to the issue. Both conditions can interfere with how your body processes a bowel movement and might require medical treatment. That’s why it’s important to not ignore the signs your body is giving you. In terms of overall bowel health, experts recommend having a bowel movement anywhere from once to three times a day, or at least three times a week. If you’re going less frequently or having difficulty passing stool, it could be a sign of constipation or another digestive issue worth discussing with your doctor. If you’re wiping a lot, experiencing discomfort, or noticing other unusual symptoms, don’t hesitate to consult a healthcare provider. They can help rule out more serious issues and guide you toward a healthier routine.

The viral video has certainly caught the attention of TikTok users, many of whom have taken to the comments section to share their own humorous experiences and thoughts on the subject. Some joked about the “hairy situations” they’ve faced, while others expressed genuine surprise at how common the issue seems to be. Despite the laughter, the underlying message remains important—your bathroom habits can offer valuable insights into your health. So what’s the bottom line? Wiping more than three times after pooping isn’t something to shrug off. While it might seem minor, it can be a clue that your pelvic floor muscles aren’t doing their job properly, or that there’s an underlying condition affecting your ability to finish a bowel movement cleanly. By practicing the pelvic floor muscle squeeze technique and paying attention to how your body responds, you can work toward a more efficient and comfortable bathroom experience. And if things still don’t improve, a quick visit to your doctor can help ensure that everything’s working the way it should. After all, everyone deserves a clean break—literally.