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Writer's pictureJordon McIlvain, PT DPT

"Just in Case Peeing": What it is, and Why It's Best to Break the Habit



"Just in Case Peeing": What it is, and Why It's Best to Break the Habit

When it comes to our daily habits and patterns, some practices are so ingrained in our routines that we hardly give them a second thought. One such habit that often goes unnoticed is "just in case peeing." This term refers to the act of urinating even when there's no immediate urge, simply as a precautionary measure. We’re all guilty of emptying our bladder preemptively, but while it might seem harmless or even convenient, there are reasons why frequent “just in case peeing” may not be the best idea for the health of your bladder and pelvic floor. 


"Just in case peeing" typically stems from a desire to avoid potential discomfort or inconvenience. Whether it's before a long car ride, a movie, or a meeting, many individuals opt for a quick bathroom break even if they don't feel the immediate urge to urinate. While this might seem like a prudent strategy, it's worth considering the impact it can have on the body in the long run and considering when it’s necessary versus when you’re urinating just out of habit.

Some of the problems with “just in case peeing” can include: 


  1. Disruption of Natural Urinary Patterns: Regularly emptying the bladder without a genuine urge can disrupt the body's natural signals. Over time, this may lead to a diminished ability to recognize and respond to the actual need to urinate. The bladder might become less efficient at holding urine, potentially leading to increased urinary frequency and urgency. In essence, “just in case peeing” can make your bladder lazy.


  1. Potential Impact on Pelvic Floor Muscles: Frequent and unnecessary bathroom trips can also affect the pelvic floor muscles. The habit of "just in case peeing" may contribute to weakening these muscles, which play a crucial role in maintaining urinary continence. Over time, this could increase the risk of urinary incontinence, especially in later stages of life.


  1. Risk of Developing Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs): Constantly flushing the urinary system, even when it's not necessary, may increase the risk of urinary tract infections. The act of urination helps to flush out bacteria from the urethra, and disrupting this natural process might create an environment conducive to bacterial growth.

Breaking the habit can be difficult. Your bladder has gotten used to being in charge and the signals between your brain and bladder might have become a little fizzy. Here are a few ways to help decrease your “just in case peeing”:


  1. Listen to Your Body: Instead of succumbing to the urge to pee "just in case," try to listen to your body's signals. The human body is remarkably adept at regulating its functions, including the need to urinate. Trusting these signals can help maintain the natural rhythm of your urinary system.


  1. Practice Bladder Training: If you find yourself running to the bathroom too frequently, consider practicing bladder training. Gradually increase the time between bathroom breaks to help retrain your bladder and improve its capacity to hold urine. A trained pelvic floor physical therapist specializes in bladder function and can help you with this. 


  1. Stay Hydrated, but in Moderation: It's essential to stay hydrated, but excessive fluid intake can be a problem. Drinking a lot of water right before an event, or downing half your daily water intake in 20 minutes may contribute to the urge to pee unnecessarily. Instead focus on drinking fluids throughout the day in a balanced manner to maintain overall health without overloading the bladder. And remember the general rule that the amount of fluid you need daily is equal to about half your body weight in ounces (not counting fluid intake during exercise).Drinking excessively more than that will increase urinary frequency and urinary urgency. 

While "just in case peeing" may seem like a harmless habit, you should consider its potential impact on your urinary system. By paying attention to your body's natural signals and breaking the habit of unnecessary bathroom trips, you can promote better bladder health and overall well-being. Trust your body's ability to regulate itself, and you may find that the urge to pee "just in case" becomes a thing of the past. 


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