Have you ever thought about hovering over a public toilet seat instead of sitting directly on it? While it might seem like a smart way to dodge germs, it could actually cause health issues. Let’s explore why this habit might not be as beneficial as you think.

The Risk of Urinary Tract Infections

Sitting in a squat position over the toilet engages your pelvic floor muscles, leaving them about 40% tensed, which prevents the bladder from fully relaxing. After standing up, you may find that not all the urine has emptied from your bladder, allowing bacteria to flourish. This can heighten the chances of developing urinary tract infections.

Feeling Like You Always Need to Go

Besides the increased risk of infections, hovering can cause a persistent feeling that you still need to urinate. Everyday activities like sneezing, jumping, laughing, or coughing could lead to unexpected urine leaks, adding to the discomfort.

Potential Bladder Weakening

Repeated squatting over the toilet could train your pelvic muscles to remain tense. Over time, this practice can impair your bladder’s ability to hold urine effectively, which might lead to bladder control issues or unexpected accidents.

A Healthier Alternative: Full Squatting

Instead of a partial squat, consider performing a full squat when using public restrooms. Lowering yourself fully onto the toilet seat can provide a more relaxed posture for your pelvic and bladder muscles, thereby minimizing risks associated with hovering.

To sum up, while avoiding germs in public bathrooms is wise, squatting over the toilet seat might not be the most health-conscious choice. It can increase the risk of urinary tract infections, create a nagging feeling of needing to pee, and over time, weaken your bladder. Trying a full squat can support healthier bladder and pelvic floor function.

We’d love to hear your thoughts! Do you tend to hover over public toilets? What other precautions do you take in public restrooms? Share your experiences with us in the comments below.