Urinating in the shower may seem harmless, but it can pose health risks—especially for women.
One main concern is **cystitis**, a common urinary infection that affects *“roughly 20% of women at least once in their lifetime.”* It happens when bacteria enter the urethra and travel to the bladder. Because women have a shorter urethra, *“the bacteria have a shorter distance to travel,”* making infections more likely.
While urine is usually sterile, doing it in a moist environment like the shower can spread bacteria, especially if hygiene isn’t maintained.
To reduce risk, avoid making it a habit, rinse thoroughly, and *“ensure that the shower floor is regularly cleaned.”* Poor hygiene increases the chance of bacterial buildup.
Not everyone who urinates in the shower will get sick, but *“women in particular should stay cautious.”* Small habits can impact long-term urinary health.
