Health and Me

Ishita Roy

Doctors Call for Change in How Patients Are Treated at Life’s End

Doctors are calling for a national strategy and a public awareness campaign to improve end-of-life care, warning that dying is often treated as an “unexpected” event or last-minute crisis, even when a patient’s condition has long been deteriorating.

The Royal College of Physicians (RCP) said healthcare systems tend to prioritize curative treatments, despite many patients living with progressive, life-limiting conditions such as frailty or advanced chronic illness. The college urged a “cultural shift” in both healthcare and wider society to recognize the value of palliative and end-of-life care.

Dr Hilary Williams, RCP’s clinical vice president, as reported by The Independent, described recognizing the end of life as “an act of clinical courage and kindness.” She stressed that early planning could improve comfort, dignity and choice for patients.

<h4>Most Deaths Are Predictable, Yet Families Unprepared</h4>

Citing earlier research, the RCP said around 70% of people die from long-term health conditions that typically follow a predictable course, meaning death can be anticipated well in advance. Despite this, many patients and families are left unprepared, missing opportunities for open discussions that could shift the focus from aggressive treatment to quality-of-life support.

<h4>The RCP has recommended that the Government:</h4>

<ul><li>Launch a public campaign on end-of-life and palliative care</li><li>Support professional education to improve recognition and delivery of such care</li><li>Develop a national strategy, including workforce training</li></ul>

The college also warned of barriers such as social care challenges, funding gaps and workforce shortages that limit timely, compassionate care.

Dr Williams said too often recognition that someone is approaching the end of life happens only in the final days or weeks, usually in acute care settings. She called for valuing continuity of care, experienced decision-making and time for clinicians to hold honest conversations with patients and families.

“With treatment options expanding, knowing when to start or stop interventions and when to focus on quality of life has become more complex,” she said. “These are skills rooted in expertise, and the system must value them.”

<h4>Support from Other Medical Leaders</h4>

Dr Nick Murch, president of the Society for Acute Medicine, as reported in The Independent said better planning could allow more people to die with comfort, dignity and in a place of their choosing.

Dr Suzanne Kite, president of the Association for Palliative Medicine, emphasized the need for a national strategy to guarantee access to high-quality palliative care at any time and location, supported by training and public dialogue, as reported by The Independent.

Charity Sue Ryder, which provides hospice and palliative services, backed the RCP’s call, noting that some patients die before hospice admission due to late referrals. The charity urged healthcare professionals to consider palliative care from the point of a terminal diagnosis.

A Department of Health and Social Care spokesperson said the Government aims to ensure compassionate, high-quality care from diagnosis to end of life. Under its 10 Year Health Plan, more healthcare will move from hospitals into communities, with palliative care playing a central role. The department has invested £100 million in hospices, the largest such funding in a generation.

<h4>Separate from Assisted Dying Debate</h4>

The RCP clarified that its position on end-of-life care is separate from its stance on the assisted dying Bill. While acknowledging deficiencies in the proposed legislation, the college urged further safeguards to protect vulnerable patients and maintain trust in the doctor-patient relationship.

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Doctors are calling for a national strategy and a public awareness campaign to improve end-of-life care, warning that dying is often treated as an “unexpected” event or last-minute crisis, even when a patient’s condition has long been deteriorating.The Royal College of Physicians (RCP) said healthcare systems tend to prioritize curative treatments, despite many patients living with progressive, life-limiting conditions such as frailty or advanced chronic illness. The college urged a “cultural shift” in both healthcare and wider society to recognize the value of palliative and end-of-life care.Dr Hilary Williams, RCP’s clinical vice president, as reported by The Independent, described recognizing the end of life as “an act of clinical courage and kindness.” She stressed that early planning could improve comfort, dignity and choice for patients.Most Deaths Are Predictable, Yet Families UnpreparedCiting earlier research, the RCP said around 70% of people die from long-term health conditions that typically follow a predictable course, meaning death can be anticipated well in advance. Despite this, many patients and families are left unprepared, missing opportunities for open discussions that could shift the focus from aggressive treatment to quality-of-life support.The RCP has recommended that the Government:Launch a public campaign on end-of-life and palliative careSupport professional education to improve recognition and delivery of such careDevelop a national strategy, including workforce trainingThe college also warned of barriers such as social care challenges, funding gaps and workforce shortages that limit timely, compassionate care.Need for Honest ConversationsDr Williams said too often recognition that someone is approaching the end of life happens only in the final days or weeks, usually in acute care settings. She called for valuing continuity of care, experienced decision-making and time for clinicians to hold honest conversations with patients and families.“With treatment options expanding, knowing when to start or stop interventions and when to focus on quality of life has become more complex,” she said. “These are skills rooted in expertise, and the system must value them.”Support from Other Medical LeadersDr Nick Murch, president of the Society for Acute Medicine, as reported in The Independent said better planning could allow more people to die with comfort, dignity and in a place of their choosing.Dr Suzanne Kite, president of the Association for Palliative Medicine, emphasized the need for a national strategy to guarantee access to high-quality palliative care at any time and location, supported by training and public dialogue, as reported by The Independent.Charity Sue Ryder, which provides hospice and palliative services, backed the RCP’s call, noting that some patients die before hospice admission due to late referrals. The charity urged healthcare professionals to consider palliative care from the point of a terminal diagnosis.Government ResponseA Department of Health and Social Care spokesperson said the Government aims to ensure compassionate, high-quality care from diagnosis to end of life. Under its 10 Year Health Plan, more healthcare will move from hospitals into communities, with palliative care playing a central role. The department has invested £100 million in hospices, the largest such funding in a generation.Separate from Assisted Dying DebateThe RCP clarified that its position on end-of-life care is separate from its stance on the assisted dying Bill. While acknowledging deficiencies in the proposed legislation, the college urged further safeguards to protect vulnerable patients and maintain trust in the doctor-patient relationship.

doctors call for change in how patients are treated at life’s end

Supriya Ramesh

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For many women with endometriosis, chronic and <span>painful gastrointestinal symptoms</span> are part of daily life, yet they often go untreated due to under-recognition by healthcare providers and a lack of evidence-based treatment options. 

Endometriosis is a chronic, inflammatory gynaecological disorder affecting one in seven Australian women. It causes a range of unpredictable and often severe symptoms, including <span>dysmenorrhoea</span> (painful periods), <span>pelvic pain</span> (below the belly button and between the hips), and <span>dyspareunia</span> (pain during sexual intercourse). These symptoms disrupt daily life, impacting finances, relationships, mental health, and the ability to work, learn, socialise, exercise, and have children.

According to Jane Varney, Senior Research Dietitian at the Department of Gastroenterology, Monash University, gastrointestinal symptoms such as abdominal pain, <span>bloating</span>, distension, <span>diarrhoea</span>, constipation, and painful defecation affect more than three-quarters of sufferers. These symptoms often intensify during menstruation, occur regardless of bowel involvement, and overlap with <span>irritable bowel syndrome</span> (IBS), which affects between 10.6 per cent and 52 per cent of women with endometriosis.

<h3>Why current treatments fall short</h3>

Despite the high prevalence and burden of gut symptoms in endometriosis, treatment options are limited. Few treatments specifically target these gastrointestinal issues, and some, such as progesterone and opioid medications, can make them worse. Surgery can come with long waiting times, high costs, ongoing pain, and the need for repeat procedures, while hormone treatments and pain relief medicines are limited by modest effectiveness and troublesome side effects.

It is no surprise that many women turn to self-management strategies such as diet and nutritional supplements to help control symptoms and take an active role in their care. International data shows that more than 58 per cent of women with endometriosis have tried supplements, though only 43 per cent reported an improvement in pain. In Australia, three-quarters use fish oil, <span>multivitamins</span>, vitamin B, or vitamin D.

Dietary changes are also common. Surveys from Australia, Holland, the UK, and beyond reveal that between 27 per cent and 84 per cent of women with endometriosis use dietary modifications to manage symptoms, with many reporting benefits. Popular approaches include anti-inflammatory diets or avoiding red meat, gluten, dairy, lactose, FODMAPs, caffeine, soy, and alcohol. However, the evidence for most of these is limited or absent.

<strong><h3>The EndoFOD study</h3></strong>Recognising the gap in evidence and the similarity of symptoms between IBS and endometriosis, Monash University researchers recently examined the effect of a low <span>FODMAP</span> diet on women with endometriosis and persistent gut symptoms.

The study was the first randomised controlled crossover feeding trial in this patient group. Thirty-five participants were assigned to a 28-day low FODMAP diet or a control diet based on Australian dietary guidelines, with both diets nutritionally matched except for their FODMAP content. After a washout period of at least 28 days, they switched to the other diet. Each diet began on the first day of a menstrual cycle to account for hormonal symptom fluctuations.

By the end of the trial, 60 per cent of participants responded to the low FODMAP diet, with significant improvements in gut symptom severity. Abdominal pain, bloating, stool consistency, and quality of life all improved. Changes were noticeable by week two, continuing steadily until the end of the intervention.

<strong><h3>What it means for endometriosis care</h3></strong>These results offer the first evidence-based diet therapy for women with endometriosis. While the low FODMAP diet is not a replacement for medical or surgical treatment, it provides an effective additional tool for managing troublesome gut symptoms.

<strong><h3>What’s next for diet research</h3></strong>Researchers emphasise that further studies are needed to confirm these results in real-world conditions. The trial controlled variables tightly by supplying participants with most of their food, ensuring adherence. In everyday life, however, patients face barriers such as motivation, understanding the diet, food availability, and convenience. The next step is a larger, multicentre trial involving dietitians teaching the approach, with participants applying it in their own kitchens. If these results are replicated outside the research setting, the low FODMAP diet could become a valuable and widely accessible adjunct to endometriosis management.

ndometriosis

painful gastrointestinal symptoms

pelvic pain

dysmenorrhoea

dyspareunia

irritable bowel syndrome

diarrhoea

multivitamins

fodmap

bloating

For many women with endometriosis, chronic and painful gastrointestinal symptoms are part of daily life, yet they often go untreated due to under-recognition by healthcare providers and a lack of evidence-based treatment options. Endometriosis is a chronic, inflammatory gynaecological disorder affecting one in seven Australian women. It causes a range of unpredictable and often severe symptoms, including dysmenorrhoea (painful periods), pelvic pain (below the belly button and between the hips), and dyspareunia (pain during sexual intercourse). These symptoms disrupt daily life, impacting finances, relationships, mental health, and the ability to work, learn, socialise, exercise, and have children.According to Jane Varney, Senior Research Dietitian at the Department of Gastroenterology, Monash University, gastrointestinal symptoms such as abdominal pain, bloating, distension, diarrhoea, constipation, and painful defecation affect more than three-quarters of sufferers. These symptoms often intensify during menstruation, occur regardless of bowel involvement, and overlap with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), which affects between 10.6 per cent and 52 per cent of women with endometriosis.Why current treatments fall shortDespite the high prevalence and burden of gut symptoms in endometriosis, treatment options are limited. Few treatments specifically target these gastrointestinal issues, and some, such as progesterone and opioid medications, can make them worse. Surgery can come with long waiting times, high costs, ongoing pain, and the need for repeat procedures, while hormone treatments and pain relief medicines are limited by modest effectiveness and troublesome side effects.It is no surprise that many women turn to self-management strategies such as diet and nutritional supplements to help control symptoms and take an active role in their care. International data shows that more than 58 per cent of women with endometriosis have tried supplements, though only 43 per cent reported an improvement in pain. In Australia, three-quarters use fish oil, multivitamins, vitamin B, or vitamin D.Dietary changes are also common. Surveys from Australia, Holland, the UK, and beyond reveal that between 27 per cent and 84 per cent of women with endometriosis use dietary modifications to manage symptoms, with many reporting benefits. Popular approaches include anti-inflammatory diets or avoiding red meat, gluten, dairy, lactose, FODMAPs, caffeine, soy, and alcohol. However, the evidence for most of these is limited or absent.The EndoFOD studyRecognising the gap in evidence and the similarity of symptoms between IBS and endometriosis, Monash University researchers recently examined the effect of a low FODMAP diet on women with endometriosis and persistent gut symptoms.The study was the first randomised controlled crossover feeding trial in this patient group. Thirty-five participants were assigned to a 28-day low FODMAP diet or a control diet based on Australian dietary guidelines, with both diets nutritionally matched except for their FODMAP content. After a washout period of at least 28 days, they switched to the other diet. Each diet began on the first day of a menstrual cycle to account for hormonal symptom fluctuations.By the end of the trial, 60 per cent of participants responded to the low FODMAP diet, with significant improvements in gut symptom severity. Abdominal pain, bloating, stool consistency, and quality of life all improved. Changes were noticeable by week two, continuing steadily until the end of the intervention.What it means for endometriosis careThese results offer the first evidence-based diet therapy for women with endometriosis. While the low FODMAP diet is not a replacement for medical or surgical treatment, it provides an effective additional tool for managing troublesome gut symptoms.What’s next for diet researchResearchers emphasise that further studies are needed to confirm these results in real-world conditions. The trial controlled variables tightly by supplying participants with most of their food, ensuring adherence. In everyday life, however, patients face barriers such as motivation, understanding the diet, food availability, and convenience. The next step is a larger, multicentre trial involving dietitians teaching the approach, with participants applying it in their own kitchens. If these results are replicated outside the research setting, the low FODMAP diet could become a valuable and widely accessible adjunct to endometriosis management.

low fodmap diet could help women with endometriosis finally tackle debilitating gut symptoms, study

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<span>Epilepsy</span> affects millions of people worldwide, yet it remains one of the most misunderstood neurological conditions. The disorder is marked by recurring seizures, sudden bursts of electrical activity in the brain , which can cause symptoms ranging from brief confusion and muscle twitches to severe convulsions.

While anyone can have a single seizure for a variety of reasons, epilepsy is diagnosed when a person experiences two or more unprovoked seizures. Experts say understanding the causes can help with both prevention and treatment.

In some cases, epilepsy runs in families, pointing to a genetic connection. Certain gene mutations can disrupt normal brain activity, making seizures more likely.

Genetic epilepsy can be inherited, but the link isn’t always straightforward, says neurologists. Different genes affect the brain in different ways, and researchers are still uncovering exactly how these changes lead to seizures.

Even without a family history, spontaneous mutations in a person’s genes can also result in epilepsy.

<h4>Brain Damage Can Lead to Epilepsy</h4>

Any structural damage to the brain can disrupt its electrical signalling, triggering seizures over time. This damage might be recent or decades old.

<ul><li>Birth complications that reduce oxygen supply to the brain</li><li>Head trauma from accidents or falls</li><li>Brain tumors</li><li>Stroke or bleeding in the brain</li></ul>

“Sometimes the injury happened years earlier, such as during birth, but its effects on brain function appear much later,” says Dr Gabriel Martz, MD, FAES, writing for Hartford HealthCare, who is a neurologist and director of the Ayer Neuroscience Institute Epilepsy Center.

<h4>Infections and Autoimmune Conditions Can Be Triggers</h4>

Infections that cause brain inflammation, such as meningitis or encephalitis, can have long-term consequences. Even after recovery, scarring and other changes in brain tissue can increase the risk of seizures.

In other cases, the immune system mistakenly attacks the brain, a condition known as autoimmune encephalitis, which can also lead to epilepsy.

“These causes highlight why protecting <span>brain health</span> through early diagnosis and treatment of infections is so important,” specialist notes.

<h4>4Sometimes, the Cause is Unknown</h4>

Despite advances in brain imaging and genetic testing, many people with epilepsy never learn the exact cause.

“We don’t always get a clear answer,” Dr Martz notes. “Not knowing the cause can be frustrating, but it doesn’t make the condition less real or less treatable.”

This uncertainty means that in some cases, treatment focuses entirely on managing seizures rather than addressing an underlying trigger.

<h4>Lifestyle and Environment Matter</h4>

While lifestyle alone doesn’t cause epilepsy, certain factors can raise the risk by increasing the chances of brain injury or neurological stress. These include:

<ul><li>Substance misuse</li><li>Dangerous sports without protective gear</li><li>Repeated concussions</li></ul>

“Protecting your brain is one of the best ways to reduce preventable risk,” doctor says. Wearing helmets, avoiding risky behavior, and staying away from drugs can make a real difference.

If you or someone you know experiences a first-time seizure, it’s essential to consult a doctor. Tests such as an MRI, EEG, or bloodwork can help identify potential causes and guide treatment.

Epilepsy affects people in deeply personal ways, not only in how seizures manifest but also in how the condition impacts daily life and emotional well-being. Understanding what lies behind it is the first step toward effective care and fuller, healthier lives.

epilepsy

brain health

neurology

what is epilepsy

causes of epilepsy

what causes epilepsy

Epilepsy affects millions of people worldwide, yet it remains one of the most misunderstood neurological conditions. The disorder is marked by recurring seizures, sudden bursts of electrical activity in the brain , which can cause symptoms ranging from brief confusion and muscle twitches to severe convulsions.While anyone can have a single seizure for a variety of reasons, epilepsy is diagnosed when a person experiences two or more unprovoked seizures. Experts say understanding the causes can help with both prevention and treatment.Genetics Can Play a RoleIn some cases, epilepsy runs in families, pointing to a genetic connection. Certain gene mutations can disrupt normal brain activity, making seizures more likely.Genetic epilepsy can be inherited, but the link isn’t always straightforward, says neurologists. Different genes affect the brain in different ways, and researchers are still uncovering exactly how these changes lead to seizures.Even without a family history, spontaneous mutations in a person’s genes can also result in epilepsy.Brain Damage Can Lead to EpilepsyAny structural damage to the brain can disrupt its electrical signalling, triggering seizures over time. This damage might be recent or decades old.Common structural causes include:Birth complications that reduce oxygen supply to the brainHead trauma from accidents or fallsBrain tumorsStroke or bleeding in the brain“Sometimes the injury happened years earlier, such as during birth, but its effects on brain function appear much later,” says Dr Gabriel Martz, MD, FAES, writing for Hartford HealthCare, who is a neurologist and director of the Ayer Neuroscience Institute Epilepsy Center.Infections and Autoimmune Conditions Can Be TriggersInfections that cause brain inflammation, such as meningitis or encephalitis, can have long-term consequences. Even after recovery, scarring and other changes in brain tissue can increase the risk of seizures.In other cases, the immune system mistakenly attacks the brain, a condition known as autoimmune encephalitis, which can also lead to epilepsy.“These causes highlight why protecting brain health through early diagnosis and treatment of infections is so important,” specialist notes.4Sometimes, the Cause is UnknownDespite advances in brain imaging and genetic testing, many people with epilepsy never learn the exact cause.“We don’t always get a clear answer,” Dr Martz notes. “Not knowing the cause can be frustrating, but it doesn’t make the condition less real or less treatable.”This uncertainty means that in some cases, treatment focuses entirely on managing seizures rather than addressing an underlying trigger.Lifestyle and Environment MatterWhile lifestyle alone doesn’t cause epilepsy, certain factors can raise the risk by increasing the chances of brain injury or neurological stress. These include:Substance misuseDangerous sports without protective gearRepeated concussions“Protecting your brain is one of the best ways to reduce preventable risk,” doctor says. Wearing helmets, avoiding risky behavior, and staying away from drugs can make a real difference.When to Seek Medical AdviceIf you or someone you know experiences a first-time seizure, it’s essential to consult a doctor. Tests such as an MRI, EEG, or bloodwork can help identify potential causes and guide treatment.Epilepsy affects people in deeply personal ways, not only in how seizures manifest but also in how the condition impacts daily life and emotional well-being. Understanding what lies behind it is the first step toward effective care and fuller, healthier lives.

what causes epilepsy? 5 common reasons why it happens

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A viral social media video warning against “power peeing”, pushing while urinating, has opened up a surprising discussion: many of us may be using the bathroom in ways that can harm our bodies. Pelvic health experts say there is, in fact, a right and wrong way to pee, and the wrong habits could cause lasting problems.

While urination seems automatic, the way you do it can have long-term effects on the bladder and pelvic floor muscles. The pelvic floor acts like a hammock, supporting organs such as the bladder, uterus, and bowels. 

For urination to happen, these muscles need to relax so the bladder can squeeze urine out. If the process is disrupted, by straining, holding too long, or going too often, it can weaken muscles, interfere with bladder signals, and contribute to pelvic floor dysfunction.

This dysfunction can lead to urinary leakage, incomplete emptying, urinary tract infections, sexual difficulties, and pelvic organ prolapse, where pelvic organs shift out of their normal position.

<h4>Habits That Can Harm Pelvic Health</h4>

Experts point to several common but harmful urination habits:

<strong>Pushing to Pee: </strong>Trying to speed things up by straining actually tightens the pelvic floor instead of relaxing it. Over time, this can result in incomplete emptying, post-void dribbling, and difficulty coordinating the bladder and pelvic muscles.

<strong>Hovering Over the Toilet: </strong>Often done in public restrooms to avoid contact with surfaces, hovering engages hip and leg muscles, making pelvic relaxation difficult. This can leave urine behind in the bladder and raise the risk of infections.

<strong>Peeing “Just in Case”:</strong> Going to the bathroom before the bladder is full trains it to signal the need to urinate with smaller volumes, leading to overactive bladder and frequent urges.

<strong>Holding It Too Long:</strong> Ignoring the urge can overstretch the bladder, reduce elasticity, and make the brain less responsive to bladder signals. This increases the risk of bacterial buildup and infections.

<strong>Peeing in the Shower: </strong>Standing can make it harder for some people, particularly those with pelvic floor dysfunction or certain prostate issues, to fully empty the bladder. It can also condition the body to associate running water with the urge to urinate.

<h4>Why You’ll Never Be Completely “Empty”</h4>

The bladder is continuously filling with urine, so it will never be completely empty. Forcing out the last drops by pushing is unnecessary and can cause more harm than good.

Experts say healthy urination habits can be learned and practiced:

<strong>Belly Breathing: </strong>Sit on the toilet, lean forward slightly, and breathe deeply from the belly. This encourages the pelvic floor to relax so urine flows naturally.

<strong>Reverse Kegels:</strong> Instead of squeezing and lifting, focus on releasing and opening the pelvic muscles as you exhale.

<strong>Double Voiding:</strong> After finishing, stand up briefly and then sit down again to allow the bladder to finish emptying.

<strong>Shift Your Position:</strong> Gently moving the hips can help the bladder release more urine without straining.

<strong>Track Your Patterns: </strong>Keep a three-day “pee diary” to monitor timing, fluid intake, and urges. Ideally, aim to urinate every two to four hours in the day and no more than twice at night.

If issues such as leakage, frequent urges, or difficulty emptying persist, consulting a pelvic floor therapist or urologist is recommended. With proper guidance, it is possible to retrain the bladder and muscles for healthier urination.

Ultimately, the simplest advice is to sit, relax, and let the body do its job naturally, no pushing, no rushing, and no multitasking on the phone. Your bladder, it turns out, prefers a calm, unhurried routine.

womens health

reproductive health

urinary tract infection

are you peeing wrong

are you peeing right

the correct way to pee

A viral social media video warning against “power peeing”, pushing while urinating, has opened up a surprising discussion: many of us may be using the bathroom in ways that can harm our bodies. Pelvic health experts say there is, in fact, a right and wrong way to pee, and the wrong habits could cause lasting problems.Why Bathroom Habits MatterWhile urination seems automatic, the way you do it can have long-term effects on the bladder and pelvic floor muscles. The pelvic floor acts like a hammock, supporting organs such as the bladder, uterus, and bowels. For urination to happen, these muscles need to relax so the bladder can squeeze urine out. If the process is disrupted, by straining, holding too long, or going too often, it can weaken muscles, interfere with bladder signals, and contribute to pelvic floor dysfunction.This dysfunction can lead to urinary leakage, incomplete emptying, urinary tract infections, sexual difficulties, and pelvic organ prolapse, where pelvic organs shift out of their normal position.Habits That Can Harm Pelvic HealthExperts point to several common but harmful urination habits:Pushing to Pee: Trying to speed things up by straining actually tightens the pelvic floor instead of relaxing it. Over time, this can result in incomplete emptying, post-void dribbling, and difficulty coordinating the bladder and pelvic muscles.Hovering Over the Toilet: Often done in public restrooms to avoid contact with surfaces, hovering engages hip and leg muscles, making pelvic relaxation difficult. This can leave urine behind in the bladder and raise the risk of infections.Peeing “Just in Case”: Going to the bathroom before the bladder is full trains it to signal the need to urinate with smaller volumes, leading to overactive bladder and frequent urges.Holding It Too Long: Ignoring the urge can overstretch the bladder, reduce elasticity, and make the brain less responsive to bladder signals. This increases the risk of bacterial buildup and infections.Peeing in the Shower: Standing can make it harder for some people, particularly those with pelvic floor dysfunction or certain prostate issues, to fully empty the bladder. It can also condition the body to associate running water with the urge to urinate.Why You’ll Never Be Completely “Empty”The bladder is continuously filling with urine, so it will never be completely empty. Forcing out the last drops by pushing is unnecessary and can cause more harm than good.How to Pee the Right WayExperts say healthy urination habits can be learned and practiced:Belly Breathing: Sit on the toilet, lean forward slightly, and breathe deeply from the belly. This encourages the pelvic floor to relax so urine flows naturally.Reverse Kegels: Instead of squeezing and lifting, focus on releasing and opening the pelvic muscles as you exhale.Double Voiding: After finishing, stand up briefly and then sit down again to allow the bladder to finish emptying.Shift Your Position: Gently moving the hips can help the bladder release more urine without straining.Track Your Patterns: Keep a three-day “pee diary” to monitor timing, fluid intake, and urges. Ideally, aim to urinate every two to four hours in the day and no more than twice at night.When to Seek HelpIf issues such as leakage, frequent urges, or difficulty emptying persist, consulting a pelvic floor therapist or urologist is recommended. With proper guidance, it is possible to retrain the bladder and muscles for healthier urination.Ultimately, the simplest advice is to sit, relax, and let the body do its job naturally, no pushing, no rushing, and no multitasking on the phone. Your bladder, it turns out, prefers a calm, unhurried routine.

have we been peeing wrong? turns out there is a right and wrong way to do it

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Doctors Call for Change in How Patients Are Treated at Life’s End

Quick Stories

What Causes Epilepsy? 5 Common Reasons Why It Happens

Low FODMAP Diet Could Help Women with Endometriosis Finally Tackle Debilitating Gut Symptoms, Study

Have We Been Peeing Wrong? Turns Out There Is A Right And Wrong Way To Do It

Health Conditions A-Z

What Causes Epilepsy? 5 Common Reasons Why It Happens

Doctors Call for Change in How Patients Are Treated at Life’s End

Low FODMAP Diet Could Help Women with Endometriosis Finally Tackle Debilitating Gut Symptoms, Study