Doctors Say Urine in the Shower Might Be Riskier Than You Think

By Urine the News Staff | Published June 4, 2025

It’s a divisive bathroom habit, but one that polls suggest up to 80% of people secretly—or not so secretly—do: peeing in the shower. Now, doctors are sounding the alarm that your go-to time-saving “life hack” might come with unexpected medical consequences.

According to a Daily Mail report, American urogynecologist Dr. Teresa Irwin has warned that urinating while showering could lead to a Pavlovian effect on the brain. By linking the sound of running water with the urge to pee, you may unintentionally train your bladder to sound the alarm anytime a faucet runs.

“It’s kind of like Pavlov’s dog,” said Dr. Irwin in a viral TikTok. “Every time you hear running water, your bladder may want to go.” Over time, this can lead to urgency, bladder control issues, or even incontinence.

That’s not the only concern. For women, peeing in the shower while standing can put extra strain on pelvic floor muscles, says Boston-based pelvic floor therapist Dr. Alicia Jeffrey-Thomas. Since women don’t have a prostate to support the bladder like men do, urinating upright may prevent the bladder from emptying fully—a condition called urinary retention. Leftover urine can increase the risk of urinary tract infections or, in more severe cases, kidney issues.

And then there’s the skin concern. If you’ve got any cuts or abrasions on your legs or feet, shower-pee splashback could carry bacteria into open wounds. While doctors say this risk is minimal due to the rinsing action of the shower, it’s still something to keep in mind.

The takeaway? What feels like a harmless multitask might be worth rethinking—especially if you're prone to UTIs, bladder issues, or you just don’t want to be triggered by the sound of your bathroom sink.

Read the full article at Daily Mail Health.