The debate over peeing in the shower continues, with many advocating for the practice due to its water-saving benefits. However, Dr. Alicia Jeffrey-Thomas, a pelvic health specialist, warns that for those assigned female at birth, this habit could have unintended health consequences.
The Water Conservation Argument
One of the strongest arguments for urinating in the shower is its potential to save water. By eliminating the need for a separate toilet flush, a person could save approximately 2,190 liters (579 gallons) of water per year. If the entire U.S. population adopted this practice, it could lead to an annual water savings of 699 billion liters (185 billion gallons). This significant reduction in water consumption highlights the environmental advantages of shower urination.
Potential Health Risks: The Pelvic Floor Connection
Despite the environmental benefits, the potential health consequences of this habit must be considered. Dr. Jeffrey-Thomas explains in a TikTok video that regularly peeing in the shower may lead to pelvic floor and bladder control issues.
The Pavlovian Response
Dr. Jeffrey-Thomas likens this habit to Pavlov’s classical conditioning experiment, where dogs learned to associate the sound of a bell with food. Similarly, repeatedly urinating in the shower can train the brain to link the sound of running water with the urge to pee. This association may result in involuntary urination triggered by running water sounds, such as a faucet, toilet flush, or even rain.
Pelvic Floor Dysfunction Risks
For individuals with existing pelvic floor dysfunction, this learned association can exacerbate bladder control problems. Dr. Jeffrey-Thomas explains that urinating while standing in the shower does not allow the pelvic floor muscles to fully relax, potentially leading to incomplete bladder emptying. Over time, this can contribute to urinary retention and increase the risk of urinary tract infections (UTIs).
Some argue that squatting while urinating in the shower might alleviate pelvic floor strain. Dr. Jeffrey-Thomas acknowledges that a full squat position allows for better pelvic floor relaxation, but she still advises against making shower urination a habit. If one must urinate in the shower, a proper squatting position is preferable to standing.
Why Doesn’t Toilet Flushing Trigger the Same Response?
A common question is why flushing the toilet doesn’t condition the brain in the same way. Dr. Jeffrey-Thomas clarifies that by the time a person flushes the toilet, they have already urinated, so no association is formed. However, individuals who struggle to resist the urge to urinate when exposed to running water may already have underlying bladder control issues.
Understanding Pelvic Floor Dysfunction
Pelvic floor dysfunction is a common condition, particularly among women. The pelvic floor is a group of muscles that support the bladder, uterus, rectum, and other organs. Dysfunction occurs when these muscles become too weak or too tight, leading to symptoms such as:
- Urinary and bowel incontinence
- Lower back pain
- Pain during intercourse
- Increased urgency or frequency of urination
Factors such as childbirth, surgery, aging, obesity, and high-impact activities can contribute to pelvic floor dysfunction. Given that urinating in the shower might worsen symptoms, individuals should be aware of these risks before adopting the habit.
The Biological Factor: Why Female Anatomy Matters
Dr. Jeffrey-Thomas emphasizes that those with female anatomy are not designed to urinate while standing. Unlike male anatomy, where the positioning allows for better bladder emptying while standing, females may struggle to fully relax the pelvic floor in this position. This can lead to incomplete bladder emptying, increasing the risk of UTIs and other urinary complications.
Pros and Cons of Peeing in the Shower
Pros:
- Water conservation: Reduces toilet water usage significantly.
- Convenience: Saves time, particularly during a rushed morning routine.
Cons:
- Pelvic floor health risks: May contribute to bladder control issues and pelvic dysfunction.
- Conditioned response: Can create an involuntary urge to urinate when exposed to running water.
- Sanitation concerns: While urine is mostly sterile, it can still contain bacteria that may pose hygiene risks.
The Bottom Line
While peeing in the shower may seem like an eco-friendly and convenient habit, it is important to weigh the potential health risks. Dr. Alicia Jeffrey-Thomas’s insights serve as a reminder to consider the long-term effects of our daily routines. Striving for sustainability should not come at the cost of personal health. Ultimately, making an informed decision based on both environmental and health factors is key to maintaining overall well-being.
Four boys singing in church is the funniest thing I’ve seen: Keep your eyes on the boy in the vest
I have to admit, this ranks among the most amusing videos I’ve ever watched. And believe me, I’ve seen my fair share! Kudos to the talented young men who put this together.
The stage was beautifully decorated for Christmas, creating a perfect setting. The audience anticipated a typical holiday church service, but what unfolded was anything but ordinary.
The four boys took the stage dressed impeccably in white shirts, black slacks, and ties. And then it happened, comedy ensued! You couldn’t miss the guy in the vest with his hilarious antics; he stole the show!
As the traditional gospel song played on, it became increasingly humorous. The boys were clearly enjoying themselves, and the audience couldn’t contain their laughter. These four boys brought tears of joy to the church with their lively performance and infectious
enthusiasm!
In a time when many believe clean, funny comedy is a thing of the past, these kids prove otherwise. They are absolutely fantastic. They made my day, truly. To join in the laughter, check out their delightful Christmas performance. It’s absolutely delightful, I couldn’t stop giggling!
Honestly, my friend, there’s something truly special about good, wholesome humor. It captures the pure joy and spontaneity of life without relying on cheap tricks or crude jokes. Watching these boys perform feels like stepping back to carefree, happier times when laughter flowed freely. They absolutely nailed it.
I can’t stress enough how genuinely funny their performance was. The boy in the vest steals the spotlight effortlessly, blending earnest worship with playful antics in a brilliant way.
Picture a stage set against a serene Christmas backdrop, then suddenly… a hilarious twist that leaves everyone doubled over with laughter. The gasps of surprise from the audience as the boys take their performance to unexpected places are almost palpable.
It’s not just the kids’ antics that are amusing; it’s the genuine warmth and joy radiating from the audience and the choir that make this moment unforgettable. Isn’t it amazing how comedy can bring people together like this?
And let’s talk about the video itself, it’s fantastic! This is the kind of content that resonates for all the right reasons: uplifting, refreshing, and perfect for the holiday season. Watching these boys inject happiness and laughter into a traditional setting is sure to bring a smile to your face.
In today’s world, finding such genuine amusement is rare. It’s a reminder that sometimes, the greatest joy comes from the simplest things. Trust me when I say, if you’re having a rough day or just need a good chuckle, this video is exactly what you need.
These four boys shine brightly in a world where negativity often overshadows humor. They remind us of the healing, unifying power of laughter. Isn’t life more fun when we don’t take ourselves too seriously? Keep an eye on that boy in the vest, he’s pure comedic gold.
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