Let’s be honest — many people do it, few admit it. Urinating in the shower has long been one of those oddly controversial bathroom confessions. But according to health experts, there are a few things you should know before making it your daily ritual.
Dr. Lena Martinez, a urologist and pelvic health specialist, says while peeing in the shower isn’t necessarily harmful, it can become a problem if it turns into a reflex — especially for women.
“The concern is behavioral,” Dr. Martinez explains. “Your brain begins to associate the sound or feel of running water with the need to urinate. Over time, this can mess with your bladder signals and lead to urgency issues — meaning you might feel the need to go, even when you don’t.”
There’s also the hygiene factor. While urine is sterile in healthy people, it can still mix with bacteria on shower surfaces, especially in shared bathrooms or gym showers — leading to unpleasant odors or buildup if not cleaned regularly.
And for those with plumbing concerns, consistent urination in the shower won’t ruin your pipes, but pairing it with poor drainage habits might.
So, what’s the verdict? Peeing in the shower occasionally probably won’t hurt — but doing it every day, without thinking, could train your brain (and bladder) the wrong way.
