For many, a day does not feel complete without their phones. So much so that they even bring their phones and use them in the bathroom, which has quietly become a normal part of their routines. While sitting on the toilet, they scroll through social media, get their daily dose of news, watch their favorite shows, or reply to messages. In turn, this stretches their bathroom sessions and keeps them on the toilet much longer than they are supposed to.
According to research, as reported by BroBible, this seemingly harmless habit could come at the expense of their gastrointestinal health. A study examined 125 adults who were first screened for hemorrhoid symptoms through colonoscopies. They were then asked about their daily routines and bathroom habits, while researchers also considered factors such as age, diet, especially fiber intake, and exercise patterns.
Among those surveyed, roughly two-thirds admitted they regularly use their phones while sitting on the toilet. According to the study, this habit could increase their risk of developing hemorrhoids. Medical experts explained that staying on the toilet for too long can put extra pressure on the veins in the lower rectum, which could ultimately result in swelling and irritation associated with the condition.
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The Habit Might Be Worth Changing
Conducted in September 2025, the study is titled “Smartphone use on the toilet and the risk of hemorrhoids.” However, a lot of similar studies have been done on this matter, tackling the relationship between smartphone use and hemorrhoids and how body position affects defecation. All point to a common finding: that this habit, while convenient and reduces the mundanity of using the toilet, is harmful.
“We’re still uncovering the many ways smartphones and our modern way of life impact our health. It’s possible that how and where we use them, such as while in the bathroom, can have unintended consequences,” Trisha Pasricha, who is the senior author of the study, said. Like previous research, this study recommends that people leave their phones outside the bathroom to avoid getting sucked in by the gadget while using the toilet.
It is also highly recommended to limit the amount of time spent on the toilet altogether, with doctors advising not to force it and to get up before trying again later. Without their phones, people can resist the temptation of staying. Cutting down on screen time in that setting could lower the risk of developing hemorrhoids. With these findings, people should consider changing this habit or, at least, gradually removing it from their daily routine.
Published: Mar 11, 2026 02:45 pm