In a stunning turn of events, medical experts are now advising people to rethink their decades-long practice of relieving themselves in the shower.
Dr. Teresa Irwin, an obstetrician, and gynecologist, has lately used the social media platform TikTok to raise awareness about the possible health risks associated with this widespread practice.
Despite the allure of multitasking, Dr. Irwin warns against the development of bladder problems from the habit of emptying oneself in the shower.
The Pavlovian Connection
Dr. Irwin discusses the underlying psychological process by referencing the seminal work of Ivan Pavlov and his training trials with dogs. When Pavlov studied the effects of associating a bell with food, he found that the dogs’ salivation increased even when they were not being fed.
It’s been hypothesized by Dr. Irwin that urinating in the shower might teach our bodies to link flowing water with the need to urinate, and this can happen even if we don’t have an actual bladder problem.
The sound of rushing water may cause us to experience the “salivating bladder” effect.
Also Read: Shocking Revelation: This is the Culprit Behind 80% of Global Deaths
Dr. Alicia Jeffrey-Thomas Supports the Theory
Physical therapist for the pelvic floor who happens to be located in Boston, Dr. Alicia Jeffrey-Thomas, agrees with Dr. Irwin’s theory. Dr. Jeffrey-Thomas elaborates in her own TikTok video, speaking specifically to those who were born into the feminine gender.
She explains that women’s bodies aren’t built for standing up to urinate, which might cause incomplete voiding. If you have a habit of relieving yourself in the shower, you may develop an aversion to the sound of running water and have more trouble controlling your bladder and avoiding leaks in other situations when you could be exposed to it.
The Importance of Prioritizing Pre-Shower Peeing
Both physicians recommend emptying one’s bladder before entering the shower to reduce any health hazards that may be incurred as a result of this practice. People who have trouble controlling their bladders in the shower may find that emptying them before getting in help.
According to Dr. Jeffrey-Thomas, ignoring the feeling may help break the link and lessen the risk of future leaks, therefore it’s important to resist the impulse if it comes while bathing.
Also Read: LSD and Neuroplasticity: Unveiling the Cognitive Benefits of a Psychedelic Compound
Conclusion
While peeing in the shower may have seemed like a good idea at the time, doctors now advise against it. The dangers of conditioning our bladders to equate the sound of flowing water with the desire to pee are brought to light by Drs. Teresa Irwin and Alicia Jeffrey-Thomas.
People may make better decisions for their bladder health if they have a deeper knowledge of the underlying psychological training at play. To avoid future problems, it’s probably best to take their advice before going into your next relaxing shower.