Going to the toilet is one of the most basic human functions that we all must do. Most of us mastered proper toilet technique as tiny tots, but a medical expert has claimed there's something we're all getting wrong - and it might be harming our bladders in the long run.

During childhood, our mums and dads would typically tell us to pop to the loo before heading out, "just in case" nature called. This approach has stuck with us into our grown-up years, with countless people now programmed to visit the toilet before any journey to prevent awkward situations whilst out and about.

However, Doctor Daria Sadovskaya, who specialises in immunology and nephrology, has warned in a TikTok clip that you should never push yourself to use the toilet, as it might cause bladder damage.

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Dr Sadovskaya explained: "Going to the bathroom 'just in case' before leaving may seem like a harmless habit. But for the bladder, it can actually be harmful."

The medic revealed that your bladder functions as a muscle-nerve structure, which means when it becomes full, it sends signals to your nervous system, triggering the need to urinate. However, if you compel yourself to visit the bathroom without feeling that natural urge, you'll condition your nervous system to respond prematurely - resulting in more frequent toilet trips.

She continued: "The bladder is a muscle–nerve organ. Normally, it fills up, the nervous system registers the volume, and only then does a real urge appear. At that moment, the bladder and the pelvic floor muscles work in coordination.

"When we regularly go to the toilet without a real urge, the bladder empties at too small a volume. Over time, the nervous system gets used to reacting earlier than it should. As a result, frequent urges may appear, a constant feeling of 'I always need to go', anxiety before travelling, and increased pelvic floor tension."

Followers responding to the post were stunned by Dr Sadovskaya's guidance, with many revealing they habitually visit the loo before heading out and were completely unaware this could harm their bladder.

One user commented: "I saw a similar TikTok a while ago and have started doing this (when I know there is a toilet where I'm going or on the way) and it has helped me go less often."

Another added: "This is me. And that is why I always have anxiety when I travel on a bus without a toilet."

Some viewers misinterpreted the doctor's guidance and declared they'd carry on using the loo whenever they felt the need. Dr Sadovskaya wasn't advising people to suppress their bladder or avoid the toilet when genuinely required, as this can also pose risks, but was rather recommending that individuals only visit the loo when they truly feel the urge.

According to Bladder and Bowel UK, you ought to empty your bladder whenever nature calls. If you're staying properly hydrated, this typically means every two to three hours. The charity warns that retaining urine for extended periods can make it harder for your bladder to completely drain, and may raise your chances of contracting a urinary tract infection (UTI).

The organisation also backs Dr Sadovskaya's advice against preemptive toilet trips "just in case". They explain: "If you go too often when you do not need to pass urine, then the bladder can eventually become smaller and therefore hold less, increasing the need to go to the toilet more often."

Beverages you should drink to keep your bladder in good health include:

• Water


• Diluted cordial or squash drinks


• Diluted fruit juice


• Fruit and herbal teas


• Red bush tea

However, you should avoid or limit your intake of these liquids:

• Alcohol


• Caffeinated drinks such as tea, coffee, and energy drinks


• Fizzy drinks

You can find more information on how to keep your bladder healthy on the Bladder and Bowel UK website.