Ever found yourself holding in a bathroom break because you're just too busy or don’t want to interrupt your day?
Sure, we’ve all been there, but holding your pee or poop for long stretches of time can actually have some pretty serious consequences on your health.
Before you start thinking this only applies when you’re stuck in traffic or in the middle of a big meeting, think again, some people have to endure really long hours without taking a bathroom break.
One of the most recent examples comes from Cynthia Erivo, who’s currently a lead in the “Wicked” movie.
In a conversation on the “Sentimental Men” podcast, Erivo opened up about the laborious process of shooting the film, revealing that she would often skip bathroom breaks during those long 12-hour workdays because of her costume and the complex harnesses she had to wear for the stunt scenes.
She said: “There were two or three different harnesses for different stunts. Those days were really interesting because once you’re in the harness, you don’t want to come out of the harness because it takes forever to get everything prepped again — the wires and whatnot.
“Those days can be really big. They can be really exhausting because your body is being put through the strangest things.”
Erivo also admitted that during these intense days, she would choose not to go to the bathroom at all — no matter how long the shoot lasted.
“I don't go to the bathroom. Once I’m in my costume ... and the harness is on, I’m not doing it. I’m not dealing with it. There’s too many layers. It is what it is. No, I don’t need the bathroom … Let’s go. We’re in it.”
While Erivo’s decision to hold it in might sound extreme, it highlights a larger issue many workers face — long, gruelling work hours with few breaks.
For actors like Erivo, the physical toll of hours spent in uncomfortable costumes and heavy equipment makes bathroom breaks a hassle that often gets pushed aside.
But is holding it in for hours on end safe? The short answer is no.
According to South African health professionals, retaining urine increases the risk of urinary tract infections (UTIs) because it provides an ideal environment for bacteria to multiply.
This can also lead to bladder distension and, in severe cases, long-term damage to the kidneys. Similarly, withholding stool may result in chronic constipation or faecal impaction, which can harm overall bowel health.
“Clicks Health Hub” highlights that bladder issues and constipation are common outcomes of holding it in too long, which is the importance of addressing bodily needs promptly to maintain urinary and digestive health.
The physical discomfort is just the start of the problem. For workers in high-pressure environments, whether in the entertainment industry or others, taking regular breaks, including bathroom breaks, is critical to maintaining both physical and mental well-being.
When you force your body to hold on to waste for hours, your body goes through a lot of stress. The pelvic muscles can become overstretched, and you may find yourself dealing with issues like frequent urges to urinate, bladder leaks, or digestive discomfort.
Plus, constantly pushing your body to the limit can also impact your focus and concentration.
Studies indicate that it’s always best to listen to your body and take those breaks when needed. Not only will you feel better, but your body will thank you in the long run.
In short, working long hours without bathroom breaks might sound like a badge of honour to some but it can take a significant toll on your health.