While it may not be widely advertised, the act of urinating in the shower is a common practice among many individuals. Some are indifferent to the idea, viewing it as a matter of convenience since all waste ultimately flows to the same place. Others, however, consider it unhygienic. Regardless of personal opinions, urologists generally concur that this practice poses no significant health risks for individuals of any gender.

Dr. Karyn Eilber, a urology professor at Cedars-Sinai in Los Angeles, remarks, "There's no harm in it, and for some, it's simply a matter of convenience. It's a matter of personal preference not to connect the place where you cleanse yourself with the act of elimination."

According to urological experts, showering while urinating is unlikely to cause health issues or lead to drain blockages. Nevertheless, there are specific situations where this practice might be inadvisable. A prevalent argument against women urinating in a standing position is that it can lead to forced straining and incomplete bladder emptying due to the pelvic floor muscles not being able to relax. Dr. David Shusterman, a urologist and chief physician at Modern Urologist in New York City, debunks this myth.

He explains that the urinary sphincters, which control the flow of urine from the bladder, are located at the base of the bladder and near the pelvic floor. When individuals attempt to force urine out, the pelvic floor muscles can weaken as straining tightens the sphincters and increases pressure on the pelvic muscles and bladder, making urination difficult. However, in a warm shower, relaxation of the sphincters can be achieved more easily, allowing urine to flow freely. Dr. Shusterman suggests, "Contrary to the belief that urinating in the shower is detrimental to health, I believe it can actually be beneficial."

When it comes to urine and infections, Dr. Eilber notes that urine can become contaminated with bacteria during infections such as urinary tract infections (UTIs). However, she reassures that the risk of contracting an infection from someone with a UTI who has urinated in a public shower is minimal, as the shower water would wash away the urine. She states, "I wouldn't be as concerned about getting an infection from someone urinating in public bathing areas as I would be about any mold or fungus you might step in." The only exception is if bacteria become trapped in the skin during urination.

Dr. Shusterman points out that men with foreskin must retract it to urinate safely; failure to do so can trap urine under the skin, creating an environment conducive to fungal growth and increasing the risk of fungal infections. Women, on the other hand, should separate their labia to prevent bacteria from contaminated urine from being trapped inside the vagina. A shower can help wash away any residual urine, he notes.

Dr. Eilber mentions that since showers wash away urine, it is generally acceptable for urine to come into contact with legs and feet. However, there is a low risk of infection if contaminated urine lands on an open wound. Urine serves as nourishment for bacteria and fungi, making it difficult for wounds to heal when bacteria have a source of sustenance, increasing the risk of bacterial infections. Dr. Shusterman recommends using a wet dressing to keep wounds clean and dry. For those who frequently urinate in the shower, there is a potential risk of developing a psychological association between the sound of running water and the urge to urinate.

This conditioning can lead to involuntary urine leakage when the brain relaxes the bladder and sphincters in response to the sound of water. While this association is not a significant issue for most, Dr. Eilber notes that for those with overactive bladders, the sound of running water can trigger involuntary urine loss. To break this association, she advises emptying the bladder before turning on the shower to prevent leakage. For individuals who experience an urge to urinate upon hearing water but have difficulty doing so, Dr. Shusterman recommends consulting a doctor for an evaluation of urinary incontinence. A urologist can provide treatments aimed at relaxing the bladder and strengthening pelvic muscles.

While urinating in the shower is deemed acceptable, the same cannot be said for baths and hot tubs. Dr. Shusterman explains that warm, stagnant water is an ideal environment for bacterial and fungal growth, increasing the risk of bacteria entering the urethra while sitting in a tub. Urinating in a bath exacerbates bacterial growth, providing more resources for bacteria to thrive. He advises urinating after a bath to reduce the risk of infection and to flush out any bacterial water that may have entered the bladder.

In conclusion, the location of one's urination is less critical than the timing. Dr. Shusterman emphasizes the importance of urinating when the bladder is full, containing between 400 and 600 milliliters of urine. Therefore, if the urge arises while in the shower, it is advisable to relieve oneself without delay, considering it an efficient form of multitasking.