Understanding Paruresis: Causes, Symptoms, and Management

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Paruresis

by Alike Medical Team ∙ Updated on June 13, 2023

Additional names

This group contains additional names: - Shy bladder syndrome - Bashful bladder

General

Paruresis, also known as "shy bladder syndrome" or "bashful bladder," is a type of social anxiety disorder characterized by an individual's difficulty or inability to urinate in the presence of others, particularly in public restrooms. This condition can significantly impact a person's daily life and may lead to avoidance of social situations or places where urination is required.

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Signs & symptoms

- Difficulty initiating or maintaining urination in the presence of others. - Increased anxiety or stress when attempting to urinate in public restrooms or crowded places. - Avoidance of situations that may require urination in public, leading to physical discomfort or bladder problems. - Negative impact on social, occupational, or educational functioning.

Diagnosis

Paruresis is typically diagnosed based on reported symptoms and the exclusion of other potential medical conditions that could cause similar symptoms. A healthcare professional, such as a psychologist or psychiatrist, may conduct an evaluation or assessment to determine the presence and severity of paruresis.

Treatment

Treatment approaches for paruresis generally involve psychological interventions and may include: - Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT): This therapy focuses on identifying and challenging negative thoughts and beliefs associated with urinating in public, as well as gradually exposing the individual to situations that trigger anxiety. - Gradual desensitization: This technique involves progressively exposing the person to increasingly challenging situations related to urination in a controlled and supportive environment. - Relaxation techniques: Learning relaxation exercises, such as deep breathing or muscle relaxation, can help reduce anxiety in triggering situations. - Medication: In some cases, anti-anxiety medications or selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) may be prescribed to manage symptoms, particularly if other treatments have been ineffective.

Note

☝ We provide information on prescription and over-the-counter medicines, diagnosis, procedures and lab tests. This material is provided for educational purposes only and is not medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.

National Institutes of Health ∙ World Health Organization ∙ MedlinePluse ∙ Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

☝ All information has been reviewed by certified physicians from Alike

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