VR Bathroom
Virtual Reality and Shy Bladder Syndrome
From time to time, the IPA receives inquiries about the potential for virtual reality (VR) to assist in the recovery process for people with shy bladder syndrome, particularly those whose condition is so severe that leaving the house presents a significant challenge.
With that in mind, the IPA explored several virtual reality options and tools. During that investigation, we discovered a 2018 research paper by Louis, Paul, and Brown of the Department of Computing at Nottingham Trent University in the United Kingdom titled “An Exploratory Investigation into the Potential of Mobile Virtual Reality for the Treatment of Paruresis – a Social Anxiety Disorder.” Working in collaboration with the UK Paruresis Trust, the researchers examined the potential role of VR in paruresis treatment. You download that article here.
Inspired by this work, the IPA undertook a proof-of-concept project to explore what might be possible. Below, you will find a video demonstrating what we have achieved so far (2026).
For those with the technical interest and expertise to explore this concept further, we have made the project files available for download. Installation instructions are also provided nearby.
If you develop enhancements or adaptations, we would be delighted to learn about your efforts. Good luck!
Special thanks to Will Pyle for his work on this project.
QUICK LINKS
INTERNATIONAL PARURESIS ASSOCIATION
P.O. Box 21237
Catonsville, MD 21228
You Are Not Alone.
There Is Help For You!
Shy Bladder, Bashful Bladder, Pee Shy
IPA OFFICE HOURS
Monday - Friday
10:00am - 6:00pm (ET)
844-I-CANT-PEE (422-6873)
US/Canada
443-315-5250 Office
Email: getinfo@paruresis.org
This website is NOT a substitute for medical or legal advice and does not constitute the practice of law, medicine, psychiatry, clinical psychology, clinical social work, or any other mental health profession. If you are having trouble urinating, you should always contact a physician since difficulty with voiding can be a symptom of a serious medical condition. We are a group of professional people and people who have suffered with paruresis. We have assembled a board and a board of advisors to help people cope with urinary dysfunction that has a psychological or social origin. On this website, we are NOT practicing medicine, psychiatry, clinical psychology, clinical social work or any other mental health profession. You should have your doctor evaluate your condition before diagnosing yourself, and seek the appropriate necessary mental health counseling if warranted. IPA, Inc. disclaims any and all legal liability whatsoever. Use of the term “member” or “membership” refers to donors above $100 each July 1 to June 30 period and does not convey any legal or ownership rights in IPA.