Peeing in shower may lead to potential health risks: Experts

Urinating in the shower is something people rarely discuss, yet it’s more common than you might think. Some consider it a harmless, even eco-friendly habit that conserves water, while others worry it could be risky in terms of hygiene and health.

The warmth and relaxed setting of a shower may make it easier to let go, however, there are some downsides to this practice as well.

“Regularly peeing in the shower is not advisable due to potential health risks. It can lead to incomplete relaxation of the pelvic floor muscles, which may result in incomplete bladder evacuation,” said Dr. Shailly Sharma, a senior consultant in obstetrics and gynecology at Cloudnine Hospital. She explained that this could cause urine retention, increasing the risk of infections, bladder stones, and even kidney issues over time.

Dr. Gaana Sreenivas, a senior consultant at Bone and Birth Clinic, agreed, noting that while shower urination may not critically harm the bladder, it can contribute to behavioral conditioning.

“This is particularly problematic for individuals with pelvic floor dysfunction, as repeatedly urinating in a standing position may not engage the pelvic floor muscles properly, potentially weakening them over time,” Dr. Sreenivas explained.

For those using shared showers, Dr. Sreenivas also raised hygiene concerns, noting that bacteria and ammonia in urine could contribute to odors and the growth of harmful microorganisms. “While urine is generally sterile upon leaving the body, it can still act as a medium for bacteria from the skin or surroundings. Regular cleaning with antibacterial solutions and proper drainage can help maintain sanitary conditions,” he added.

Due to the anatomical variations between men and women, urinating in the shower affects differently. “In men, the prostate provides support to the urinary bladder and urethra. However, women lack this support, making them more prone to straining the bladder while urinating in the shower,” said Dr. Sharma. This strain can result in incomplete bladder evacuation, which increases the risk of infections, bladder stones, and urinary incontinence.

Dr. Sreenivas added that men, who typically urinate while standing, are less likely to impact their pelvic floor muscles. In contrast, women might not fully engage their pelvic muscles when urinating in a standing position, which could, over time, lead to weakened control. Additionally, the difference in spray patterns between men and women means that women may be more prone to urine coming into contact with the legs or feet, raising additional hygiene concerns,” he noted.