Toilet Phone Use Linked to 46% Higher Hemorrhoid Risk — How to Break the Habit

Smartphones follow us everywhere — including the bathroom. A new clinical study of colonoscopy patients found that people who use phones while sitting on the toilet are more likely to stay seated longer and show a significantly higher prevalence of hemorrhoids. Below is an evidence-based summary of the findings, why prolonged toilet sitting raises risk, and clear, practical steps to reduce harm.

Key study findings

A cross-sectional study of 125 adults undergoing screening colonoscopies found that 66% of participants reported using smartphones while on the toilet. Among those phone users, 37.3% spent more than five minutes per toilet visit versus 7.1% of non-users. After adjusting for age, sex, BMI, exercise, straining and fiber intake, smartphone use on the toilet was associated with a 46% increased risk of hemorrhoids. PLOS+1

Several press summaries and major outlets covered the study and its implications, underlining that prolonged sitting — rather than the phone itself — appears to be the key factor increasing rectal vein pressure and hemorrhoid risk. EurekAlert!+1

Why longer toilet sitting increases hemorrhoid risk

Hemorrhoids are swollen veins around the anus and lower rectum. The likely mechanisms linking phone use to hemorrhoids are:

• Prolonged pressure: Remaining seated on the toilet for extended periods increases pressure on rectal veins, making swelling more likely. PLOS
• Straining and constipation: While this particular study did not find straining alone to be the dominant driver, constipation and straining are established hemorrhoid risk factors and may be exacerbated by longer, distracted toilet sessions. EurekAlert!
• Sedentary lifestyle correlation: The study observed that phone-using participants reported less weekly exercise, suggesting the habit may be part of a broader sedentary pattern that raises constipation and hemorrhoid risk. bidmc.org

Hygiene concerns (phone contamination)

Using a phone on the toilet carries contamination risks: fecal material or aerosolized droplets from flushing (especially with the lid open) can land on surfaces and devices. Even if you wash your hands, re-grabbing a contaminated phone can reintroduce pathogens to your hands and face. Wiping devices with appropriate disinfectant wipes and closing the lid before flushing reduce this risk. The Washington Post

Practical, doctor-approved steps to reduce risk

1. Adopt a no-phone rule in the bathroom. Leave your phone outside or on a shelf to avoid distraction.
2. Limit toilet time. Aim for routine visits under 2–3 minutes when possible; studies show >5 minutes correlates with increased risk. PLOS
3. Improve bowel habits. Increase dietary fiber (fruits, vegetables, whole grains), hydrate, and move regularly to reduce constipation.
4. Avoid straining. Don’t force bowel movements—if nothing happens in a few minutes, try again later.
5. Optimize posture. Use a small footstool to raise your knees above your hips for a more natural elimination posture.
6. Clean your phone regularly. Disinfect your device periodically and close the toilet lid before flushing. The Washington Post
7. See a clinician for symptoms. Persistent bleeding, severe pain, or a prolapsed lump near the anus warrants prompt medical evaluation.

Quick checklist for readers

• Stop phone use during bathroom visits.
• Close the toilet lid before flushing.
• Wash hands thoroughly and clean your phone regularly.
• Add fiber and hydrate.
• Use a footstool for better posture.
• Consult a doctor for persistent or severe symptoms.

FAQ

Q: How long is “too long” to sit on the toilet?
A: While individual tolerance varies, the study and clinicians generally identify more than five minutes as associated with higher hemorrhoid prevalence; keeping routine visits under 2–3 minutes is a prudent target. PLOS

Q: Will my phone make me sick?
A: Phones can pick up fecal bacteria and other contaminants in the bathroom. Good hand hygiene and device cleaning reduce risk. The Washington Post

Q: Are hemorrhoids dangerous?
A: Most hemorrhoids are not life-threatening but can be painful or bleed. Severe or persistent symptoms should be evaluated by a healthcare professional. bidmc.org

External links (drop these into your article)

• Original peer-reviewed study (PLOS One): Smartphone use on the toilet and the risk of hemorrhoids. PLOS
• Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center (BIDMC) news summary of the study. bidmc.org
• EurekAlert / press release summarizing the findings. EurekAlert!
• Washington Post coverage (analysis & context). The Washington Post
• ABC News report summarizing the research and patient implications. ABC News