Exploring Paruresis - Swansea University study

"The British Medical Journal have recently published "Exploring paruresis ('shy bladder syndrome') and factors that may contribute to it: a cross-sectional UK survey study". The study was carried out in 2024 by the School of Medicine, Swansea University.

We were particularly pleased to note that the conclusion and recommendations of the study mirrored the views of UKPT.

"This work has important implications for all organisations in relation to layout of buildings and support
for staff. Organisations should consider building single gender, single occupancy toilets and locating toilets in
quiet non-­ communal areas to limit anxiety associated with shy bladder syndrome. Considering music and running
water in toilets may also help to overcome anxieties relating to micturition where individuals are conscious
about others hearing them. Organisations should also consider providing resources such as counselling, mind-
fulness, information leaflets and self-­ help guidance to direct and to help individuals manage paruresis, as well as
other anxiety conditions."

Obviously there are considerable resource implications in changing the design and structure of toilets. But the other measures mentioned, particularly the provision of information resources, could make a profound difference to the lives of people with paruresis. Particularly the many who we know spend years believing that they are the only person who experiences this difficulty around toilets."