Why Some People Have a Shy Bladder

If that’s you, you’re not alone

HAVE YOU EVER been at a friend’s house and tried going to the toilet, but couldn’t because they were just outside and might hear you? If this happens to you, don’t worry, you’re not the only one. It’s called having a shy or bashful bladder, and it’s actually a real condition.

The official name is paruresis. Essentially, for those who have this condition, going to the toilet in these sorts of situations causes the muscles that control the flow of urine from your bladder to lock up and make it impossible to wee.

However, paruresis has nothing to do with the wellbeing of your urinary system; it’s actually a social anxiety disorder. It can happen in public rest rooms, at a friend’s house, or even in your own home if you have visitors around.

If you suffer from a shy bladder, you’re definitely

not alone. Dr Simon Knowles, clinical psychologist and senior lecturer at the Swinburne University of Technology says, “Although there is no strong research conducted on this, experts estimate around seven per cent of people worldwide experience some form of paruresis or shy bladder.

“Unfortunately, it is a condition that is often suffered in silence, even though its likely that working with a psychologist will lead to positive change. It is also important to check with your medical professional to make sure there is nothing else going on, as difficulty urinating can also be a symptom of a serious medical issue.”

So, next time you’re out in public, locate an individual toilet, or remember to go before you leave the house – although don’t force yourself.