The question of the best posture for urinating in men regularly sparks lively debates, swinging between considerations of domestic hygiene, cultural traditions, and wellness advice.
A meta-analysis conducted under strict criteria
As public and private spaces increasingly encourage men to sit down, a rigorous analysis of the scientific literature helps separate fact from fiction. A comprehensive systematic review and meta-analysis led by Dutch researchers from the Department of Urology at Leiden University Medical Center (LUMC) highlights that the impact of posture varies dramatically depending on an individual’s urological health. Far from common beliefs, the posture does not have the same effect on a young, healthy body as on someone facing the early signs of bladder aging.
To carry out this landmark research, scientists screened no fewer than 2,352 initial publications from 14 international medical databases, ultimately including only eleven studies meeting strict methodological criteria. In total, these studies compared the urodynamic profiles of nearly 800 participants worldwide. The core of the analysis revolved around three key indicators measured in clinical settings: maximal urinary flow rate (Qmax), total voiding time, and, most importantly, the post-void residual (PVR) volume, i.e., the amount of urine remaining in the bladder after finishing urination.
In reality, the position makes no difference
The conclusions of this meta-analysis debunk a first myth: among healthy men, posture makes absolutely no medical difference. The numerical data show that there is no significant difference between seated or standing regarding maximal flow rate or residual urine volume. For a man with no pathology or urinary discomfort, standing to urinate or sitting is strictly a matter of personal comfort, ecological beliefs, or bathroom-cleaning habits, with the body’s physiology adapting perfectly to both postures without any adverse effects.
However, the picture shifts dramatically for patients suffering from lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS), often linked to benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). A condition that affects the overwhelming majority of men as they age. In these patients, the seated position proves clearly more effective. The study highlights a statistically significant reduction in residual urine volume in the bladder (on average about 25 milliliters less when seated).
A real benefit for seniors
Biologically, sitting allows a complete relaxation of the muscles of the pelvic floor, the hips, and the spine. In contrast, standing to urinate requires an unconscious muscle contraction to maintain the erect posture, which can impede complete emptying when the urinary passage has already narrowed with age.
If science confirms that sitting does not have a dramatic impact for the general public, it does validate a real therapeutic interest for seniors or people troubled by prostate issues—the benefits of a better emptying that can help limit complications such as urinary tract infections or bladder stones. However, urologists emphasize that it is not a miracle cure in itself. For the general public, the choice of posture remains a matter of balancing domestic hygiene, comfort, and targeted prevention.
Also read
Peeing in the shower to save the planet
