Pregnant mothers, especially first-time moms, often have many doubts and questions about what to do and what not to do during pregnancy.
Whether or not to use an Indian toilet is one such concern that many pregnant women have.
It is generally safe to use an Indian toilet or squat toilet during pregnancy, provided you do not have any special concerns or a high-risk pregnancy.
Yes. It is safe for most women to use Indian toilets during pregnancy.
But if your doctor has asked you not to strain much or to avoid using Indian toilets, then it is recommended to refrain from using them.
Benefits of using Indian toilets during pregnancy
There are various benefits of using Indian toilets during pregnancy including:
Strengthens the pelvic muscle: Since a pregnant mother must squat down in order to sit in an Indian toilet, it helps expand and strengthen the thighs and the pelvic muscles.
Pelvic muscle strength can help with vaginal delivery, and it can also help with post-delivery healing processes.
Clears the rectum: It is easier for the body to excrete stool when sitting in a squat position or when using an Indian toilet.
It can help clear the rectum well when compared to western toilets. This position also helps those suffering from constipation during pregnancy.
Reduces the risk of UTI: Urinary Tract Infection (UTI) is common for pregnant mothers.
It is said that using Indian toilets can potentially reduce the risk of UTI when compared to western toilets.
This is because, with Indian toilets, there are zero chances of our private parts touching the toilet compared to western toilets.
Precautions to follow while using Indian toilet during pregnancy
Wear proper footwear: Since there are chances for the bathroom to be wet, ensure to wear proper footwear that provides grip and keeps you safe from skidding.
Ventilation and light: Make sure the bathroom has good ventilation and has good light to make sure you are safe.
Clean the toilets often: Pregnant women are prone to UTI and other infections. So it is suggested to clean the toilets frequently.
Handrails: If possible, try installing handrails that are specifically available for toilets on the sides to ensure comfort when getting down and getting up from the toilet.
Who should avoid using Indian toilets during pregnancy?
Although it is safe for most pregnant women to use Indian toilets during pregnancy, it might not be the case for some.
For those with dizziness, high-risk pregnancies or those who have any specific conditions, please talk to your gynecologist before using Indian Toilets.
It is also recommended to stay away from Indian toilets if your doctor has specifically asked you to or if you are on bed rest.
Trimester-Wise Safety Guide for Using an Indian Toilet During Pregnancy
| Trimester | Safety Level | When It Is Usually OK | When to Avoid | Key Tips |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| First Trimester (0–13 weeks) | ✅ Generally considered safe |
• No vaginal bleeding • No pelvic or abdominal pain • Good balance • Used to using Indian toilets before pregnancy |
• Vaginal bleeding • Abdominal pain • Poor balance • Doctor has advised not to use an Indian toilet |
• Use wall or handrail support • Squat and stand up slowly |
| Second Trimester (14–27 weeks) | ⚠️ Use with caution |
• No bleeding • No pelvic or abdominal pain • No dizziness • Used to using Indian toilets before pregnancy |
• Vaginal bleeding • Abdominal pain • Short cervix • Cervical cerclage • Poor balance • Knee pain • Doctor has advised not to use an Indian toilet |
• Use wall or handrail support • Squat and stand up slowly • Do not sit in the same position for too long |
| Third Trimester (28 weeks onwards) | ⚠️ Use with caution |
• Only if you feel comfortable • No severe back pain • Good balance • No dizziness • Low-risk pregnancy • Used to using Indian toilets before pregnancy |
• Pregnancy complications (pre-eclampsia, short cervix, placenta previa) • Severe back pain • Knee pain • Poor balance • Doctor has advised not to use an Indian toilet |
• Use wall or handrail support • Squat and stand up slowly • Do not sit in the same position for too long • Use Western toilet if possible |
Position for Sitting in an Indian Toilet
- Stand with feet slightly apart
- Keep feet firmly flat on the floor
- Point toes slightly outward
- Maintain a stable stance
- Hold the handrail or wall for support
- Bend knees gradually into a squat position
- Keep knees slightly apart to give space for the abdomen
- Keep your back straight
- Stand up slowly and steadily
For appointments and consultations with the best gynecologist in Chennai Dr. Deepthi Jammi, Contact Jammi Scans at 7338771733. Jammi Scans is one of the best pregnancy scan centre in Chennai.
FAQ
What if balance or knee pain is an issue?
If you experience knee pain or difficulty maintaining balance while using an Indian toilet during pregnancy, it is recommended to switch to a Western toilet for safety reasons.
What about public Indian toilets?
Public Indian toilets are generally considered safe, as your body does not come in contact with the toilet surface, which reduces the risk of infections.
However, if you have not been using Indian toilets before pregnancy, or if you have special concerns such as placenta previa, balance issues, knee pain, or poor balance, it is advisable to use a Western toilet whenever possible for added safety and comfort.
