Paruresis FAQ

Your Shy Bladder Syndrome FAQs Answered

Here is a selection of questions we have been asked about shy bladder syndrome over the years. Hopefully they may also help to answer any questions you have about paruresis issues and treatments.

If you have any other questions you can contact us at admin@ukpt.org.uk

Is there a cure for paruresis? Is there a cure for shy bladder syndrome?

Shy bladder syndrome and paruresis are the same thing. Some people also call it “stage fright”.

There is no pill which will definitely and quickly cure you of paruresis. Some antidepressant medication may help by generally reducing your anxiety, but it’s not a certainty – it helps some people, but not others. 

We find it more useful to think of a road to recovery rather than a sudden cure. Most people find Cognitive Behavioural Therapy very helpful. Most people also find it very helpful to talk to someone about their paruresis, particularly other people who experience it themselves. Most people find it very helpful to learn the physical causes of their paruresis. People who come along to our workshops can do all of these during the course of a weekend. You’re unlikely to be totally cured in a weekend, but you will have the tools to go forward with more confidence. Learn to know your enemy and you’re halfway to reducing its power over you.     

Why don’t I pee when I want to? What is stopping it?
Does hypnosis work?
What is a catheter?
What is a sphincter?
What is a urethra?
Are there self-help strategies available for paruresis?
Are there different sorts of paruresis?
What does voiding mean?
Who first identified paruresis, and when?
Does paruresis also affect people’s ability to poo?
We have an employee with paruresis. What steps should we take to support them?
What is a urologist?
My workplace has mandatory drug testing. I have paruresis. How can I manage this?
Do women get paruresis?
Are shy bladder syndrome, pee shy, and “stage fright” all the same thing?
Find the UK Paruresis Trust on Facebook
Follow the UK Paruresis Trust on Twitter/X
Follow the UK Paruresis Trust on YouTube
Follow us on Instagram
Registered with Fundraising Regulator
Community Fund
BMA Patient Information Awards Highly Commended 2019
Trusted Information Creator
Copyright © 2017 United Kingdom Paruresis Trust. All Rights Reserved.
Last review date: January 2023.
Next review date: January 2026.

UK Charity Registration Number 1109541
Privacy and Cookies Policy