Many people habitually take their smartphones when they go to the bathroom. Even if they are not constipated, they tend to open their smartphones. While it may seem like an insignificant action, it can have critical effects on health. It can cause hemorrhoids and increase the risk of infection from pathogens.
Dr. Chethan Ramprasad from the Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center in the United States noted, "A study involving 125 people over the age of 45 found that using a smartphone on the toilet increases the risk of hemorrhoids by 46%," as published in the international journal PLOS One on the 3rd (local time).
The researchers asked participants whether they used their smartphones on the toilet, what their usual diet was like, and how much exercise they got. They also confirmed whether participants had hemorrhoids through a colonoscopy. Sixty-six percent of participants said they used smartphones on the toilet. Among them, 37% reported using their smartphones for more than 5 minutes while seated on the toilet.
Sitting on the toilet for a long time while using a smartphone puts pressure around the anus and causes the blood vessels to swell. The researchers explained that this increases the likelihood of developing hemorrhoids. They said, "The toilet increases surrounding pressure disproportionately compared to desks or chairs" and added, "Over time, this can develop into hemorrhoids."
There are those who, due to constipation, have no choice but to sit on the toilet for a long time. In this case, it is better to engage in appropriate exercise and dietary therapy rather than wait for bowel movements while looking at a smartphone. Dr. Lai Xue from the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center advised CNN, "Even if you are constipated, do not sit on the toilet for more than 10 minutes; it is better to go outside and walk for a bit." Walking can stimulate the intestinal muscles and promote bowel movements.
Dr. Xue recommends drinking plenty of water and eating fiber-rich foods like oats and beans. The National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine in the United States recommends a daily water intake of 2.7 to 3.7 liters. The U.S. Department of Agriculture advises consuming 14 grams of fiber for every 1,000 calories of food. Adequate hydration and fiber help soften stool and aid in its passage.
Using a smartphone in the bathroom also increases the risk of infection from pathogens. When flushing the toilet, water particles can spray up to 1.8 meters high around. Invisible microscopic particles can land on smartphones, allowing bacteria to breed. Continuing to use a smartphone in that state can lead to eye and skin infections or gastrointestinal diseases.
Smartphones are naturally breeding grounds for bacteria due to being operated by hands that have touched various surfaces. According to a survey earlier this year, Americans check their phones 205 times a day, increasing the chances of microorganisms transferring from fingers to phones.
Researchers from the University of Arizona revealed that there are about 10 times more bacteria on phones than on toilets. This is based on research from over a decade ago. Given the increased reliance on smartphones today, it is likely to be even more serious now. Adding particles splashed from the toilet only worsens the situation.
Experts advise against bringing smartphones into the bathroom at all. A suggestion was made to make the bathroom a "No Smartphone Zone." If you must use your phone in the bathroom for unavoidable reasons, it is advisable to wipe it down with antibacterial wipes or use a case.
References
PLOS One (2025), DOI : https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0329983
Review.org, https://www.reviews.org/mobile/cell-phone-addiction/