Abstract: A shielding device for covering an opening of a toilet bowl that contains a liquid. The shielding device helps inhibit backsplash from the liquid when an object is exuded into the liquid, and also helps to at least partially inhibit contact between a user and the sides, the inner peripheral region, and the outer peripheral region of the toilet bowl. The device is effective for creating sanitary conditions when a user is sitting or standing over the opening of the toilet bowl.