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| - Last Updated on November 14, 2024 by Dr Priyamvada
Quick Take
A social media post claims that peeing while standing causes prostate problems. We did the fact check to term this claim as false.
The Claim
An Instagram post claims that peeing while standing up causes improper bladder emptying, which can lead to various health problems, including prostate cancer. According to the post, standing to urinate is the main reason why prostate cancer cases are on the rise, and it may even result in sexual weakness and other related health issues. The suggestion is made to sit down while urinating to avoid these problems.
Fact Check
Can peeing while standing cause prostate problems like cancer?
Not really. There is no scientific evidence linking the act of standing up while urinating to prostate cancer. Prostate cancer is a complex disease influenced by factors like age, genetics, and lifestyle, but posture during urination is not a risk factor. The claim that standing up while peeing causes prostate issues or cancer is simply false and lacks any credible medical support.
A 2011 study found that leaning forward with foot support on a western toilet improves urine flow, and raising the knees while leaning forward further helps. Squatting showed some benefits, but many people find it difficult. Another study from 2022 showed that girls with urination problems had worse urine flow when squatting, while healthy boys had better flow when standing. Moreover, a 2014 study found that for men with urinary issues, sitting improved bladder function compared to standing. However, for healthy men, there was no significant difference between sitting and standing. Overall, sitting and specific postures may help with urination, but we still need more research to fully understand the effects.
We connected with Dr Avreen Shah, Consultant Urologist in Shah Hospital Advanced Laparoscopic Gynae and Urology Centre, Ludhiana, Punjab, for his take on urination and posture. He says, “No, that’s not true. Posture has absolutely no role in prostate cancer or any prostate problems. Whether you sit, stand, or have a particular posture, it doesn’t affect your prostate health. Prostate issues are influenced by factors like age, genetics, and lifestyle, not by the way you hold your body.”
We reached out to Dr Ubaid ur Rahman, General Physician, Holy Mission Clinic, New Delhi, for his expertise on urination posture and prostate problems. He says, “There is no scientific evidence to suggest that peeing while standing causes prostate problems, including cancer. Prostate issues are primarily influenced by factors such as age, genetics, and hormonal changes, not by urination posture. For men with urinary problems, sitting might be better, but for healthy men it doesn’t really matter.”
Could urinating while standing lead to other health problems like sexual weakness?
No, standing to urinate does not cause sexual weakness. Sexual health depends on physical health, mental well-being, and lifestyle. Posture during urination has no effect on sexual function. Claims linking standing while urinating to sexual weakness are false and lack scientific support.
Should men sit down to urinate to avoid health problems?
No, there is no need to sit down to pee in order to prevent health issues like prostate cancer or sexual weakness. Whether a person stands or sits while urinating is a matter of personal preference. The key to prostate health lies in maintaining a healthy lifestyle, which includes regular exercise, a balanced diet, and regular medical check-ups, rather than worrying about posture during urination.
A 2022 study found that some men choose to sit while urinating to keep the bathroom cleaner and because it takes them longer to start or finish. However, there is no clear proof that sitting is better or worse than standing for health. People’s choice to sit or stand often depends on what feels comfortable and their cultural practices.
What are the actual causes of prostate problems and cancer?
Prostate cancer and other prostate problems primarily arise from factors like genetics, age, and hormonal changes. Men over 50, especially those with a family history, are at a higher risk. Ethnic factors also influence susceptibility, with Black men being more likely to develop prostate cancer compared to Asian men. Lifestyle choices, including diet and physical activity, can impact prostate health. Instead of worrying about misconceptions such as posture during urination, it is essential to prioritise well-established risk factors.
We checked with Dr Almas Fatma, MBBS, Diploma in Family Medicine, PG in Digital Health, General Physician from Navi Mumbai, for her insights on causes of prostate issues, especially prostate cancer. She says, “Prostate issues like BPH (benign prostatic hyperplasia) and cancer are mainly influenced by age, genetics, and lifestyle. Aging enlarges the prostate and raises cancer risk after 50. Family history and genetic mutations increase this risk. Hormones such as testosterone play a role in growth and potential cancer. High-fat diets, smoking, and obesity are linked to higher risk, while fruit- and vegetable-rich diets may protect. Chronic inflammation and certain chemicals are also factors. Regular screening and a healthy lifestyle are important, and urination posture does not affect these risks.”
How can you empty your bladder more effectively?
To keep your bladder healthy, remember to stay hydrated and maintain a balanced diet. These habits support overall bladder function.
- Listen to your body: Urinate as soon as you feel the urge to avoid bladder discomfort.
- Don’t push: Let your bladder empty naturally without forcing it.
- Avoid sitting too long: Prolonged sitting can send signals to your bladder that may affect its ability to empty fully.
- Elevate feet or lean forward: These positions can help urine flow more effectively.
- Avoid hovering: Sitting all the way down helps relax pelvic muscles for better voiding.
- Maintain regular bowel movements: Prevent constipation that can put pressure on your bladder.
- Practise pelvic floor exercises: Strengthen muscles to improve bladder control.
THIP Media Take
The idea that standing while peeing or urinating leads to incomplete bladder emptying, prostate cancer, or sexual weakness is false as per medical evidence. There is no reason to change how you urinate to avoid these supposed health issues. Prostate problems have other known causes, and it’s crucial to focus on the proven factors like age, genetics, and lifestyle for maintaining good prostate health.
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