For many of us, peeing in the shower is part and parcel of our daily bathroom routine. But, according to a doctor, we should stop this practice immediately.
If you’ve ever thought about peeing in the shower, it’s important to understand the health risks associated with it. This article looks at why you should stop peeing in the shower immediately according to a doctor.
Why You Should Stop Peeing in the Shower
Peeing in the shower can cause a number of health risks and unpleasant outcomes. Here are a few reasons why you should stop immediately:
- Spread of Bacteria
Peeing in the shower can lead to the spread of bacteria and viruses. The warm and moist environment within your shower can cause uric acid to build up and bacteria to rapidly multiply, leading to the growth of fungus, infections and other ill health effects.
- Unpleasant odors
The warm and moist environment in the shower can also lead to unpleasant odors. Uric acid and other components of urine can leave behind a lingering smell that may be difficult to remove.
- Possible Legal Issues
In some jurisdictions, it is illegal to pee in the shower. But even if you don’t get caught, it can lead to some legal issues, such as residents in a shared living space being liable for maintenance, repairs and sanitation costs caused by your “depositing” in the shower.
So, according to a doctor, the safest bet is to just not pee in the shower — and do it in the toilet where it belongs.
What Are the Health Risks Associated with Peeing in the Shower?
Dr. Aaron Glatt, an infectious disease specialist in New York, has warned against peeing in the shower. Here are a few of the health risks associated with this practice:
- Eye and Skin Infections
The warm and moist environment in the shower creates the perfect conditions for bacteria to multiply, which can lead to a range of eye and skin infections. If you suffer from eczema or other skin conditions, peeing in the shower can make them worse.
- Urinary Tract Infection
Peeing in the shower can also increase your risk of urinary tract infection (UTI). Bacteria from your urine can get into the skin around the anus and vagina, leading to infection.
- Damage to the Environment
Urine contains a range of chemicals, including nitrogen and phosphorus, which can be damaging to the environment. When it’s released into the environment, it can lead to eutrophication, an increase in algal population which depletes oxygen levels in the water bodies.
- Higher Risk of Legionella Outbreak
Legionella is a bacterium commonly found in water. It can cause Legionnaires’ disease, a serious type of bacterial pneumonia that is potentially fatal. Peeing in the shower can increase the risk of Legionella outbreak.
What Are the Alternatives to Peeing in the Shower?
If you’re used to peeing in the shower and would like to break the habit, there are a few alternatives that can help. Here are some of them:
- Train Your Bladder
If you’re having trouble resisting the temptation to pee in the shower, try training your bladder. This means going to the bathroom as soon as you have an urge to pee, even if it’s only a weak one. Over time, you’ll get better at identifying and controlling your urge to urinate.
- Adjust Your Shower Schedule
It may be helpful to take a quick break from your shower routine and make a quick trip to the toilet. This way, you won’t be tempted to pee in the shower because you’re already wet.
- Drink Plenty of Water
If you make it a habit to drink lots of water, you’ll be less likely to feel the urge to pee during your shower routines. Drinking enough fluids also helps you stay hydrated and healthy.
- Practice Consciousness and Mental Preparation
It’s important to be aware of the fact that peeing in the shower can have negative health repercussions. When you’re about to get in the shower, remind yourself of the reasons why you should stop the habit.
Peeing in the shower may seem like a harmless habit, but it can actually lead to a range of health risks, not to mention legal issues if it’s done in a shared environment. According to a doctor, the safest bet is to just not pee in the shower – and do it in the toilet where it belongs. If you’re having trouble controlling your urge to urinate in the shower, there are a few alternatives you can try such as training your bladder, adjusting your shower schedule, drinking plenty of water, and practicing consciousness and mental preparation.