Urophobia

Urophobia is the fear of urine or of urination. Sometimes referred to as paruesis or bashful bladder syndrome, Urophobia derives from the Greek word "ouro", meaning urine and "phobos" meaning fear. It is thought that Urophobia affects more men than women.

The urophobic individual often feels that someone is watching or listening while they are trying to void. This makes urination extremely uncomfortable. Some individuals are so severely compromised, by this phobia that they are completely unable to urinate in any public toilet. This fear impacts the urophobic's ability to participate in any daily routine. Conversely, if the individual suffering with Urophobia does continue their routine, but avoids urination throughout the day, they are at risk of developing physical problems of a urological nature.

What Causes Urophobia?

The person suffering with Urophobia has experienced a traumatic event. Perhaps, in the adult's mind the incident has been forgotten. However, as with all phobias, there is one specific catalyst that remains associated with urination.

As Urophobia is associated with a fear of public toilets, one could logically assume that the traumatic experience occurred there. Perhaps seemingly innocent school pranks during bathroom breaks or a comparison of anatomy during pre-adolescence is the reason.

There are a myriad of reasons that an individual could develop Urophobia. But, whatever the cause, urophobic person can experience anxiety and emotional turmoil that is completely disruptive to their daily functioning.

What Are the Symptoms of Urophobia?

The symptoms of Urophobia differ from person to person. Some people, when confronted with their fear of urination and public toilets, may feel uncomfortable, nauseated or begin to perspire. Others can be so severely compromised by this phobia, that they experience anxiety and/or panic attacks.

Other symptoms of Urophobia can include:

• A Dry Mouth
• Gasping or Shortness of Breath
• Trembling
• Increased Heartbeat
• Feeling Out of Control
• Feeling Trapped and Unable to Escape
• Overwhelming Feeling of Impending Disaster

How Is Urophobia Diagnosed?

The vast majority of urophobic people diagnose themselves. They realize that their fear is irrational and that it is severely compromising their daily functioning.

The individual coping with Urophobia may also discuss their phobia with their doctor. Rarely will the doctor diagnosis Urophobia based on that initial consultation. More likely, the doctor, after ruling out any physical reasons for the phobia, will refer the person to a mental health professional for further assessment and evaluation.

How is Urophobia Treated?

When the fear of urine, urination and public toilets becomes so intense as to disrupt a person's daily functioning, there are a number of different ways to treat Urophobia. These include:

• Talking to the doctor who can then refer the person to a therapist who specializes in the treatment of phobias.
• Traditional "talk" therapy that help the person learn to recognize and control their phobia.
• Self-help techniques.
• Support groups with other people who cope with this phobia.
• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy or Desensitization Therapy.
• Relaxation techniques such as deep breathing.
• In extreme cases of Urophobia, anti-anxiety medication can be prescribed

Urophobia is an intense, irrational fear of urine, urination and public toilets. Sometimes that fear can become so overwhelming as to completely disrupt the person's ability to maintain a daily routine. Unchecked, Urophobia can become a debilitating condition that touches every aspect of a person's life.