Doctors Urge ‘Two-TikTok’ Rule on the Toilet to Cut Haemorrhoid Risk

Health professionals in the UK are raising concerns about a habit that has become increasingly common in recent years — taking smartphones into the bathroom. While many people see it as harmless to check TikTok, scroll Instagram, or read updates while sitting on the toilet, experts are warning that this behaviour could be linked to an increased risk of haemorrhoids. The condition, caused by swollen veins in the rectum or anus, can result in itching, bleeding, and discomfort that sometimes requires medical treatment.

The problem lies in the amount of time people now spend on the loo. In the past, someone might have taken a magazine or newspaper and sat for a few extra minutes, but smartphones and social media have made bathroom breaks much longer. Doctors report that many young people now spend ten to twenty minutes scrolling while seated, even though the body typically needs no more than two or three minutes for a natural bowel movement. This extended sitting places unnecessary pressure on the rectal veins, making haemorrhoids more likely to develop over time.

Haemorrhoids are already one of the most common digestive complaints in the UK, affecting millions of people each year. They can occur for a variety of reasons, including straining during bowel movements, pregnancy, or a lack of dietary fibre. However, lifestyle habits are also an important factor, and the rise of toilet scrolling has given doctors a new reason to warn patients about the risks of staying seated too long. Many sufferers ignore the early warning signs such as irritation or light bleeding, but without proper care the condition can worsen and sometimes require surgery.

Doctors suggest that a good rule of thumb is to avoid spending more than two to three minutes on the toilet at a time. If nothing happens in that window, it is better to stand up, move around, and try again later instead of sitting for longer while using a phone. They also recommend leaving devices outside the bathroom to resist the temptation of scrolling, as well as adopting other healthy habits such as drinking more water, eating a fibre-rich diet, and exercising regularly. Some even suggest using a small stool to adjust posture, which can reduce strain during bowel movements.

Although it might seem amusing to picture TikTok and toilet time linked in the same conversation, doctors are serious about the health risks. What feels like a moment of relaxation or entertainment can quietly create painful problems that interfere with everyday life. By keeping bathroom visits short and leaving the phone behind, people can significantly reduce the risk of developing haemorrhoids and avoid unnecessary discomfort later on.

The message is simple: the bathroom is for function, not entertainment. Next time you reach for your phone before heading to the loo, remember that your health may benefit more if you leave it outside. What might seem like a small habit change today could save you from a lot of trouble tomorrow.