Bashful Bladder Syndrome

Bashful bladder syndrome is known by many names such as shy bladder syndrome, psychogenic urinary retention, pee-phobia, or pee-shyness; however, its medical name is paruresis.

This condition is characterized by having difficulties in urinating in public restrooms or in the presence of others. People with bashful bladder syndrome are usually afraid that others may hear and smell their urine. Hence, they need complete privacy when using the toilet that they often cannot empty their bladder when there are guests at home. Understandably, they often restrict their liquid intake, avoid traveling, and feel very anxious in social functions. Since paruresis is a psychological condition, some of the most employed treatments are relaxation techniques, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), and exposure therapy.