Many of us have the habit of using the bathroom ‘just in case’ before heading out, thinking it’s a good practice. However, specialist pelvic health physiotherapist Tiffany Sequeira warns against this. She explains, “Going for a wee when you don’t feel the immediate need strains your bladder to empty prematurely.” This habit can confuse the signals between your bladder and brain, leading to long-term bladder issues.
Sequeira emphasizes that responding to the first urge to urinate, or doing so unnecessarily, can cause a bladder signaling dysfunction. Over time, this may lead to a ‘weak bladder’ condition. She suggests incorporating pelvic floor exercises into your routine to maintain bladder health. These exercises involve gently squeezing pelvic floor muscles without tightening other parts of the body.
Regularly practicing these exercises can help strengthen your bladder control and avoid future problems. So next time, think twice before making that last-minute bathroom trip just before leaving.
