The hidden risks of “just in case” bathroom trips
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Many people urinate before leaving home “just in case,” but experts warn that making this a habit can harm bladder health. Emptying your bladder when it’s not full may train it to signal the urge more often, leading to frequent urination, incomplete emptying, and higher UTI risk. Over time, it can also weaken bladder and pelvic floor muscles, increasing the chance of urinary incontinence. Urologists recommend following your body’s natural cues to keep your bladder healthy.
Source
Wyman JF, Burgio KL, Newman DK. Practical aspects of lifestyle modifications and behavioural interventions in the treatment of overactive bladder and urgency urinary incontinence. Int J Clin Pract. 2009 Aug;63(8):1177-91. doi: 10.1111/j.1742-1241.2009.02078.x. Epub 2009 Jul 2. PMID: 19575724; PMCID: PMC2734927.
Additional Reading
https://www.nytimes.com/2025/06/03/well/bladder-health-pee-bathroom.html
https://www.physiofitnc.com/why-shouldnt-i-pee-just-in-case/