When you have to use a public restroom, you usually want to be quick and not draw attention to yourself. But if you’re someone who tends to squat over the toilet seat, thinking it’s a cleaner option, you might want to reconsider. That seemingly harmless habit could actually be causing more harm than good. Let’s take a closer look at why squatting over the toilet might not be as safe as it seems!
1. Higher Risk of Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs)
Squatting over the toilet might actually make you more likely to get a urinary tract infection (UTI). How, you ask? When you squat, your pelvic floor muscles stay about 40% tense, which stops your bladder from fully relaxing. This means that some urine may stay in your bladder even after you think you’re done.
Bacteria love this leftover urine, and it can create a perfect environment for them to multiply. And that’s how a simple trip to the bathroom could lead to a UTI — which, if left untreated, can lead to more serious health problems.
2. Feeling Like You Always Need to Pee
Ever feel like you have to go again, even after you’ve just used the restroom? This annoying feeling can get worse if you’re squatting over the toilet. Because your bladder doesn’t empty completely in this position, some urine can be left behind. You might even experience a little leak when you sneeze, laugh, or cough. It’s both embarrassing and uncomfortable, leaving you with that constant feeling that you need to pee.
3. Weakening Your Bladder Muscles
Squatting over the toilet again and again can actually make your bladder muscles weaker over time. If your pelvic muscles are always partly tensed, they don’t get the chance to fully relax and work as they should. This can make it harder for your bladder to completely empty, causing you to feel the need to urinate more often or feel like you’re never really done.
4. Why You Should Try a Full Squat
Instead of hovering halfway, try sitting all the way down on the toilet seat. When you fully sit down, your pelvic and bladder muscles can relax completely. This position aligns your urinary tract better and makes it easier for your bladder to empty fully. Adopting a full squat can help keep your bladder healthy and avoid the problems that come from partial squatting.
Conclusion
So, next time you’re in a public restroom, you might want to think twice before squatting over the toilet seat. While it might feel like a more hygienic choice, it could actually be doing your bladder more harm than good. Consider fully sitting down or using seat covers and sanitizing wipes instead. Your bladder might thank you for it!
We want to know: Do you squat in public restrooms? What do you do to stay clean and comfortable? Share your thoughts and tips in the comments below!
