It might seem harmless — after all, plenty of people admit to doing it. But medical experts are now warning that urinating in the shower could have some surprising and unpleasant side effects for your body over time.

According to urologists, the main concern isn’t hygiene — it’s habit. When you regularly relieve yourself in the shower, your brain starts to connect the sound of running water with the urge to urinate. Over time, this can create a reflex known as conditioned urination, meaning you may feel the sudden need to pee every time you hear water running — whether you’re in a shower, washing dishes, or even standing near a fountain.

It can also cause issues for those who struggle with bladder control. For people prone to overactive bladder, the habit can worsen symptoms and make it harder to “hold it in” when necessary.

Doctors also note that while urine is mostly sterile, it’s still a bodily waste product. If you have small cuts on your feet or if the water doesn’t drain properly, bacteria can linger and potentially lead to minor skin infections or odors — especially in shared showers.

So what should you do instead? Experts recommend breaking the habit by using the toilet before stepping into the shower and avoiding holding your urine for long periods. It’s a small change, but it helps keep your bladder healthy and your reflexes under control.

It’s something most people never think twice about — but as doctors say, sometimes the smallest habits can have the biggest effects on your body.