Should Guys Stand to Pee? Here’s What Urologists Say About the Evidence

What the study found

A study published in Neurourology and Urodynamics measured how much urine men passed and how quickly. Its results did not establish that sitting or standing was better overall.

S. Adam Ramin, a urologist and medical director of Urology Cancer Specialists, said position makes no difference for a normal, young, healthy man. He said either way should provide a good stream.

When sitting may help

The findings may differ for older men, particularly those with an enlarged prostate. Boback Berookhim, a urologist at Northwell’s Lenox Hill Hospital, said sitting can sometimes help men with an obstructing prostate empty their bladders more effectively. Berookhim explained that sitting may let these men use more abdominal force to push urine out.

Preference and convenience

For men without those concerns, the article says there is no health reason to change a bathroom habit that is working well. Berookhim said he would not advise a young, healthy man to switch positions if he is doing fine.

Standing may be more convenient and is likely to save time, Berookhim said. Beyond that, the choice can come down to personal preference.