Pelvic Floor Expert Warns Against Peeing in the Shower

A recent discussion sparked by pelvic floor expert Dr. Alicia Jeffrey-Thomas on TikTok highlights a significant health concern regarding the common practice of urinating in the shower. While many may view it as a harmless habit, Dr. Jeffrey-Thomas emphasizes that it can lead to serious pelvic floor issues over time.

In her video, Dr. Jeffrey-Thomas addresses a comment questioning the hygiene concerns associated with peeing in the shower. She explains that the issue extends beyond cleanliness—it relates to how our brains form associations. Drawing on the famous Pavlov’s dog experiment, she illustrates that just as the dog learns to associate a bell with food, individuals may start linking the sound of running water with the urge to urinate.

Understanding the Risks to Bladder Health

Dr. Jeffrey-Thomas warns that this association can have unintended consequences. “You’re creating an association in your brain between the sound of running water and having to pee,” she states, which can lead to “leak issues” in everyday situations. For instance, the sound of running water while washing hands or dishes might trigger an involuntary urge to urinate, compromising bladder control.

Additionally, she points out that for those assigned female at birth, urinating while standing can complicate proper bladder emptying. “Your pelvic floor can’t relax appropriately,” she notes, further underscoring why it is essential to use the toilet before showering.

Responses to her video reflect a mix of humor and disbelief, with some viewers jokingly claiming to be “saving water.” Yet, another hygiene expert, a urogynaecologist, echoes Dr. Jeffrey-Thomas’s concerns, stating that such habits are not only unhelpful but can also lead to negative health outcomes.

Breaking the Habit

Dr. Jeffrey-Thomas urges viewers to rethink their habits. “Try to pee before you even try and turn on the shower water, and if you get the urge while you’re in the shower, try to ignore it,” she advises. This practical guidance aims to prevent the formation of a habit that may lead to pelvic floor dysfunction later in life.

The conversation around this topic raises important questions about hygiene and health. While some may argue that the act of urinating in the shower is not particularly harmful from a cleanliness perspective, the potential long-term effects on bladder health cannot be overlooked.

In conclusion, Dr. Jeffrey-Thomas’s insights serve as a reminder that seemingly minor habits can have significant implications for health. By adopting better practices, individuals can help maintain their pelvic floor health and avoid complications in the future.