The conversation around everyday bathroom habits has recently sparked renewed interest online, with one question standing out: is it useful—or even responsible—to urinate in the shower? For some, this idea feels unconventional, while others view it as a small change with noticeable environmental benefits. Supporters often point out that combining a daily shower with urination reduces toilet flushing, potentially saving thousands of liters of water each year. When multiplied across large populations and repeated over time, this seemingly minor habit can contribute to measurable conservation efforts. But beyond sustainability, experts suggest that personal health, hygiene, and long-term habits are important factors to weigh before embracing the practice.
From a medical perspective, pelvic floor specialists such as Dr. Alicia Jeffrey-Thomas encourage people to consider how repeated behaviors may influence bladder habits over time. She explains that consistently urinating while shower water is running may create an unintended association between the sound of running water and the urge to urinate. Similar to a conditioned reflex, this response may become triggered in everyday situations—washing dishes, turning on a faucet, or even hearing rain. For individuals already dealing with urinary urgency or pelvic floor challenges, this pattern may make symptom management more difficult.
Another point specialists highlight involves posture and muscle function. For many people, especially those assigned female at birth, standing upright may prevent complete relaxation of the pelvic floor muscles, which is necessary for fully emptying the bladder. Incomplete emptying over time may contribute to discomfort or increase the likelihood of bladder-related issues. While squatting may help in occasional situations, experts generally recommend using the toilet so that the body maintains healthy, consistent habits that support long-term pelvic floor function.
Looking at both sides of the discussion, the choice often comes down to balancing practicality with personal health awareness. Water conservation and convenience are appealing benefits for those who value sustainable living, but potential drawbacks—such as conditioned bladder responses, posture-related challenges, and general hygiene considerations—may lead others to avoid the practice. For individuals experiencing urinary urgency, incontinence, or pelvic discomfort, speaking with a healthcare provider can offer personalized guidance. Ultimately, thoughtful decision-making helps people align their routines with both their environmental values and their long-term well-being.