When you’ve got to go, you’ve got to go—especially in a public restroom, where you want to get in and out as quickly and discreetly as possible. But if you’re one of those people who squat over the toilet seat to avoid touching it, you might be doing more harm than good! This seemingly innocent habit could come with some surprising health risks. Let’s find out what they are!
1. Higher Risk of Getting Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs)
Believe it or not, squatting over the toilet can actually raise your chances of getting a urinary tract infection (UTI). Why? When you squat, your pelvic floor muscles stay about 40% tense, which means your bladder can’t fully relax.”If your bladder doesn’t relax completely, it doesn’t empty all the way,” explains Dr. Jennifer Lee, a health specialist.
“This leftover urine is like a playground for bacteria, giving them a perfect place to grow.” So, even though you might think squatting is a clean move, it could lead to a painful UTI if bacteria start to multiply.
2. Always Feeling Like You Need to Go
Ever felt like you have to pee again, even just after going to the restroom? Squatting could be the reason! When you squat, your bladder doesn’t empty fully, leaving some urine behind. “That leftover urine can make you feel like you still need to go,” says Dr. Lee.
And if that’s not annoying enough, this can also cause unexpected leaks when you laugh, cough, or sneeze. It’s embarrassing, frustrating, and makes you feel uncomfortable all the time.
3. Weakening Your Bladder Muscles
Squatting over the toilet regularly can actually weaken your bladder muscles over time. “When you squat, you train your pelvic muscles to stay in a tense state, which isn’t natural,” Dr. Lee explains. “Over time, this tension makes it harder for your bladder to contract and fully empty.”
This means you might find yourself running to the bathroom more often, feeling like you never quite finish, and dealing with a weakened bladder.
4. The Benefits of a Full Squat
So, what should you do instead? Try a full squat! By lowering yourself completely onto the toilet seat, you allow your pelvic and bladder muscles to relax. “Sitting all the way down helps your urinary tract align properly,” Dr. Lee suggests. “This makes it easier for your bladder to empty fully.” A full squat is a better way to keep your bladder healthy and avoid all the problems that come with hovering.
Conclusion
Next time you’re in a public restroom, think about sitting down instead of squatting. While squatting might seem like the cleaner option, it could actually cause problems for your bladder over time. Instead, consider sitting fully on the seat or using seat covers and sanitizing wipes to stay clean. Your bladder will likely thank you!
We want to know your thoughts! Do you squat in public restrooms? What tricks do you use to stay comfortable and clean? Share your tips and experiences in the comments below!
