Why You Should Stop Using Your Phone on the Toilet, According to Scientists

Most people scroll through their phones while using the toilet, but recent research shows this common habit could have some negative consequences.

A study conducted at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center in Boston found that people who regularly use their smartphones in the bathroom have a 46% higher risk of developing haemorrhoids.

What the Study Found

Researchers surveyed 125 colonoscopy patients about their bathroom phone habits. Each participant was also evaluated for hemorrhoids by medical professionals.

The results were: 66% admitted to using their phones while on the toilet. 37% of these users spent more than five minutes per bathroom visit.

When adjusted for age, sex, body mass index, exercise habits, and fiber intake, the data still pointed to a significant increase in hemorrhoid risk among phone users.

Interestingly, men were more likely than women to spend six minutes or more in the bathroom.

When you sit on the toilet for a long time, the veins in your rectum and anus experience increased pressure. When combined with constipation or straining, the risk becomes even greater.

Reason #2

Besides hemorrhoids, hygiene is also a reason to rethink taking your phone to the toilet.

Health professionals caution that germs from faecal matter can easily move from your hands to your phone.

Also, flushing with the toilet lid up causes germs to spread, potentially landing on surfaces like your phone.

What You Can Do to Protect Yourself

If you can’t stop using your phone in the bathroom altogether, these suggestions can help reduce health risks:

• Aim to spend less than five minutes on the toilet.
• Use the bathroom as a brief break from screens.
• Sit upright with feet flat on the floor to reduce rectal pressure.
• Regularly disinfect your device with antibacterial wipes.

These small changes can make a big difference in both your digestive health and personal hygiene.