Many people have found themselves in situations where they had to hold their urine due to the unavailability of a nearby restroom or being too busy completing a task to take a bathroom break.
However, this habit can pose health risks, potentially leading to:
- Urinary tract infections
- Kidney problems
For this reason, it is crucial to address the urge to urinate promptly.
Withholding urine: what happens when the bladder reaches its capacity?
When the bladder surpasses its maximum capacity, peripheral nerves immediately send a signal to the central nervous system. Subsequently, the brain can issue a “command” to either empty or retain the bladder based on the circumstances.
For instance, if one cannot access a restroom, the brain will instruct the bladder not to empty. Under normal circumstances and without underlying urinary system issues, occasionally holding back urine is not considered dangerous.
Typically, the bladder reaches a volume of around 300 ml before the urge to urinate arises. Depending on individual hydration levels, emptying the bladder every three to six hours is advisable.
However, the duration of withholding urine is not set in stone and varies depending on various factors, including:
- Bladder size
- Personal habits
- Age
- Particular conditions – such as pregnancy or an enlarged prostate
Does holding back urine lead to infections?
When we develop a habit of withholding urine and delaying bladder emptying, we increase our susceptibility to urinary tract infections.
This is due to the consequences of urine retention, which include:
- The accumulation of toxins, bacteria, and acidic substances
- Exceeding the bladder’s elasticity limit
As a result, it may become challenging to eliminate all the bladder’s contents during urination. The residual urine left inside the organ can serve as a potential factor for infection.
Symptoms of Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs)
If you are experiencing a urinary tract infection, several symptoms can indicate its presence, including:
- Burning sensation during urination
- Intense and frequent urge to urinate
- Urinary incontinence and leakage
- The presence of blood in the urine
What conditions can be exacerbated by withholding urine?
In several conditions, withholding urine can increase the risk of infection or kidney disease. These conditions include:
- Enlarged prostate
- Neurogenic bladder
- Kidney disorders
- Urinary retention
