We’ve all done it—peed in the shower to save time and water. But according to Dr. Alicia Jeffrey-Thomas, a pelvic health expert, this habit could be setting women up for future bladder issues.
At first glance, shower peeing seems like a win-win. It saves toilet flushes, reducing water waste. But Dr. Jeffrey-Thomas warns that our brains are quick to form associations. If you frequently pee under running water, your brain may start connecting the sound of water with the need to urinate.
This conditioning can backfire. Imagine turning on the sink or hearing rain—suddenly, you feel the urge to go, even if your bladder isn’t full. For women with pelvic floor dysfunction, this could mean embarrassing leaks at inconvenient times.
Another concern is posture. Women’s anatomy isn’t built for standing urination. When you pee in the shower, your pelvic floor muscles don’t relax properly, which can lead to incomplete bladder emptying. Over time, this might contribute to infections or weakened muscles.
Dr. Jeffrey-Thomas suggests that if you really need to go, squatting fully is better than standing. But the best option? Hold it until you’re on the toilet, where your body can function as nature intended.
Water conservation is important, but so is pelvic health. Before turning your shower into a toilet, weigh the risks—your future self might thank you.
