Health Warning! Peeing in the shower can severely harm your bladder and pelvic health

What you do in the shower may seem like a personal matter, but medical experts are raising red flags about one habit in particular: peeing while standing in the shower. A now-viral TikTok has sparked widespread conversation after a healthcare creator warned women that this habit could lead to bladder leakage over time. With over a million views, the video has prompted both support and skepticism. However, doctors say the concerns are valid for both women and men. From hygiene issues to long-term pelvic health consequences, the advice is simple—don’t do it. Here's why experts say this common act might come with unexpected risks.


Why women should avoid peeing in shower
Medical professionals warn that peeing while standing up in the shower—especially for women—can cause harmful associations in the brain and weaken pelvic muscles.

• It trains the brain to associate the sound of running water with urination.
• This can lead to increased urgency or leakage over time.
• The bladder may develop poor habits that affect control in the long run.

According to OB-GYN Dr. Emma Qureshey, doing this regularly isn't just a mental issue—it can physically weaken the pelvic floor. “It may destroy your pelvic floor,” she said, explaining that it’s not a natural position for the body to relieve itself.


What are the risks for men while peeing standing up
While men are more accustomed to standing while peeing, experts still advise caution, particularly as they age.

• Sitting relaxes the pelvic and spine muscles, allowing for a more complete release.
• Standing increases the risk of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), which is the enlargement of the prostate gland that can block the urethra.
• Over time, this can lead to frequent urination, incomplete emptying, and other urinary complications.
• Urological surgeon Gerald Collins emphasizes that sitting is often “the most efficient way” for men to urinate.

Hygiene concerns you might be overlooking
Though shower water may seem like it washes everything away, peeing in the shower can still raise hygiene red flags.

• Bacteria can linger on shower surfaces, especially if multiple people use the same space.
• Urine splashing can spread germs around the floor and fixtures.

It's especially unsanitary in public or shared bathrooms.

So, while it might seem convenient, the risks may outweigh the ease.

Cultural pressure and male stereotypes
For men, societal attitudes can complicate the conversation. In places like Germany, those who sit while peeing are labelled “Sitzpinkler,” a term used to mock them as weak or unmanly.

• This stigma may prevent healthier urination practices.
• Doctors urge men to ignore the stereotype and consider the health benefits of sitting.

Final thoughts: What should you do instead?
As per the New York Post report, experts suggest making small changes to improve urinary health:

• Sit down to urinate, especially at home or when you’re not in a rush.
• Avoid urinating in the shower to prevent conditioning your bladder with running water.
• Practice pelvic floor exercises (like Kegels) to maintain strength.
• Talk to a doctor if you experience frequent urgency or leakage.

Ultimately, the convenience of peeing in the shower doesn’t outweigh the cumulative toll it can take on your bladder, pelvic floor, and overall hygiene. Sitting down, taking an extra minute before you step under the water, and practicing simple pelvic‑floor exercises are easy investments in long‑term urinary health. If urgency, leakage, or discomfort persist, speak with a healthcare professional. Small, mindful changes today can spare you bigger medical headaches tomorrow and preserve your confidence well into your later years.